Audioquest Thunderbird XLR modulation cable

The AudioQuest ThunderBird XLR incorporates numerous proprietary technologies developed by the American manufacturer. These technologies, shared across the “Mythical Creature” series, reduce distortion and efficiently dissipate radio-frequency noise and electromagnetic interference, while reproducing music with maximum naturalness and precision.

AudioQuest ThunderBird XLR: Conductors

The ThunderBird uses solid-core Perfect Surface Copper conductors. These conductors prevent strand interaction, a major source of dynamic distortion in cables. They are made from AudioQuest’s finest copper, PSC+ (Perfect Surface Copper+), and are protected from RF noise by alternating layers of graphene (carbon/metal).

The positive conductors have almost no contact between the metal and their polypropylene (PP) insulation, which limits cable memory effects. AudioQuest uses polypropylene air-tube insulation. Since air absorbs virtually no energy and polypropylene has low loss and a benign distortion profile, this high-air-content air-tube insulation produces far less memory effect than other insulating materials.

AudioQuest ThunderBird XLR: Technology

The AudioQuest ThunderBird XLR features a DBS (Dielectric-Bias System) module applying a high 72V polarization to the shielding.

All conductors benefit from ZERO-Tech technology, which eliminates the electrostatic field between positive and negative conductors, allowing linear noise dissipation. In this model, noise dissipation is Level 6: it incorporates a carbon-and-graphene resistive mesh network, direction-controlled conductors, and silver-plated ground wires, significantly minimizing RF noise masking effects.

The conductors are insulated with FEP air-tube insulation. Positive conductors have near-zero contact between the metal and the FEP insulation, while negative conductors use “controlled-loss insulation.”

Silver-plated (6%) RF drain wires with controlled direction further enhance radio-frequency noise dissipation, resulting in clearer and more natural sound.

AudioQuest ThunderBird XLR: Connectors

The AudioQuest ThunderBird XLR is fitted with superb XLR connectors made from red copper and silver-plated.

AudioQuest’s finest connectors are made from copper coated with suspended (non-polished) silver. The silver is applied directly to extremely pure red copper, ensuring uncompromised signal transfer.

AudioQuest ThunderBird XLR: Sound Performance

The ThunderBird XLR is the first reference model in AudioQuest’s new Mythical Creature series, which includes three models: ThunderBird, FireBird, and the ultra-high-end Dragon.

The ThunderBird benefits from the same exceptional build quality as its higher-end counterparts and integrates much of AudioQuest’s sophisticated noise-reduction technology at a more accessible price.

From the first minutes of listening, one is captivated by its unwavering neutrality across the entire audio spectrum. It feels as if the source were directly connected to the loudspeakers. Dynamics are remarkable, especially in the lower frequencies, where superb articulation is combined with powerful bass and surprisingly deep extension.

The midrange reflects the best of AudioQuest’s production, with harmonically rich voices and outstanding clarity. Every detail of the recording—artificial or not—is fully revealed.

The tonal balance of the ThunderBird XLR is straight, honest, and direct. Far from being an entry-level model, it represents the quintessence of the brand and may well offer the best price-to-performance ratio among AudioQuest’s high-end cables.

Bravo. Highly recommended.