10 Best Coaxial Cable For Audio (Our Top Picks!)

AudioQuest produces high-quality products in a number of price ranges, and the VDM-A is a good example of how to strike a balance between price and quality.

The solid copper conductors of this digital coaxial audio cable are silver-plated, while the RCA connectors are gold-plated. Signals such as S/PDIF (digital audio) need a large amount of bandwidth and must go around the outside of the conductor.

As a result, the silver-plated wire has the greatest conductivity and the best signal transmission of all wires. The VDM-A additionally has a strong foam insulation layer around the conductors to further protect them.

In this way, their location is maintained over the whole length of the wire, and there are no differences in impedance between the ends of the cable. The whole cable is shielded with foil and braid to prevent interference, and the ends are terminated with RCA connectors that have been gold-plated for durability.

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This is an excellent bargain in an audiophile digital audio coaxial cable that will enhance the acoustic performance of your system. We’ll walk you through the best coaxial cable for audio.

WHAT DO YOU THINK SOUNDS THE BEST?

Curiosity got the better of me, so I set out on a quest. A significant number of digital coaxial cables have been collected and tested by me over the course of a short period of time (more than 25).

I’ve experimented with a few different cables and have come up with a collection that should appeal to a wide range of tastes. I favor timbre authenticity above all other considerations, which I would characterize as a rawer and less glamorous sound my opinion.

Transparency, resolution, and soundstage would be traded for more true color and a richer sound, in my opinion. It’s possible that your preferences are different. As you are undoubtedly aware, I am not one to shy away from reviewing cable television:

• RCA interconnects are a kind of cable that links two devices together.
• Cables for the Internet
• The use of USB cables

There has been plenty of hate mail and nasty remarks from people who like making wild guesses about my personal life. Others are looking for measures that can be used to quantify emotional reactions in some way.

Speculating is a simple process. Putting in the time to really listen, experiment, and change gear around for the sake of curiosity is a whole other animal.

When it comes to understanding why someone would spend thousands of dollars on a cable, the “Mind Your Own Business” approach works wonders – both in audio and in everyday life. The fact that a grown-ass adult has the money to spend on a cable because she believes it gives her an eargasm is irrelevant.

She is not in need of rescuing. Some people believe that cable evaluations are worthless since they are reliant on the system being used. So, I went ahead and put these cables through their paces on a variety of systems.

Power conditioners, digital-to-analog converters, connectors, amplifiers, and even speakers were all changed out. These BNC cables were also tested on two other master clocks, the Mutec REF10 and the SOtM SCLK-OCX10 (reviews coming).

My notes for each cable were written in different papers over the course of a few months, and they were then combined at the conclusion of the process. When I started writing this evaluation, I was completely unaware of the prices of the majority of the cables on the market.

Expensive does not always imply superior sound, and I prefer not to know the price in advance anyhow. None of these cables is ideal, and they will all have compromises in terms of performance.

Some will be grainier but will have greater tonality, while others will be smoother, with a more porcelain-like tone. I’ll attempt to explain them in such a manner that you may determine for yourself which is the best option for your particular system.

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Our Methods And Procedures

You can imagine the number of comparisons that had to be done based on the number of cables that were available on the day. Whenever I come across a set of cables that are comparable in performance, I’ll take the cheapest one from that group and go on to the next variety.

Quick back-to-back comparisons seem to be the most efficient method of highlighting some of the minor variations across cables. [pagebreak] (focus, tone, quietness, etc).

However, spending days with a cable allows you to get a more comprehensive understanding of how a cable sounds over a variety of days, genres, moods, and systems (tempo, pitch, cohesion, extension, etc).

The listening hours and taking notes were the only things that remained to be done in the end. The use of similar-toned cables to group cables also helped to identify variances.

Fortunately, I had all of the cords I needed for the duration of the review, so switching them in and out was fast and simple. Once all of the notes have been produced, they are merged to ensure that they are consistent. Even when comparing various systems, the outcomes are more predictable than you would expect.

So, What Exactly Does The Coaxial Digital Audio Cable Seem To Be Like?

What exactly does the coaxial digital audio cable seem to be like?

Coaxial digital audio cables, which are used for transmitting audio, have the appearance seen above.

At each end, they contain one male RCA jack, and according to the technical requirements, they should have a resistance of 75 ohms in order to ensure the correct transmission of the digital signal.

However, in the actual world, many AV cables may or may not be properly constructed to be 75 ohms, depending on their manufacturer. Whatever the labeling on the package may state. The purchase of costly “high-end” coaxial cables for huge amounts of money is not something I would suggest.

Some individuals will swear on their lives that a more costly cable intended for a particular purpose would sound better than a less expensive wire. I don’t agree with you.

A well-made coaxial cable does not have to be prohibitively costly to be effective. Something along the lines of this will suffice: You are, however, free to make your own decision.

Amazon also offers its own AmazonBasics line of digital audio coaxial cables, which are suitable for the majority of applications and are reasonably priced. This kind of connection may also be used to connect your AV receiver to a subwoofer, if necessary.

What is the wiring method for a coaxial cable?

A coaxial cable is composed of four major components on the inside:

• A center core, which is often composed of copper wire, is in the center of the structure.
• A dielectric (electrically insulating) plastic insulator is a kind of plastic insulator.
• A metallic mesh that has been braided (which acts as a shield for electromagnetic interference).
• An exterior plastic coating is applied to the cable to protect the inside of the cable.
• Consequently, it is a durable cable type that is suitable for a wide range of applications.

What is the purpose of a digital coaxial connection?

It is possible to transmit S/PDIF digital audio signals between devices via a coaxial digital audio connection. S/PDIF is an abbreviation for Sony/Philips Digital Interface, which was the company that invented this kind of digital audio transmission in the first place.

This kind of signal is sent via two different connection types. The coaxial digital audio connection being described here is one kind of digital audio connection, whereas the other type is an optical digital audio interface.

When you buy a gadget, it is normal to discover both of these connections side by side – or you may just receive one of them. If you have both, it may not make a significant difference in which one you use; it may just come down to the kind of connection you have on the other device if you have both.

One benefit of utilizing digital coaxial cables over optical audio cables is that these cables are very common, which makes them more cost-effective.

It is more probable that you will have a coaxial RCA cable on hand than that you will have an optical cable. Additionally, it is expected to be more durable than the thin optical cable. Except for this one point, the variations in performance between the two techniques are negligible.

What kind of audio formats may be played back via a coaxial digital audio connection?

An uncompressed PCM stereo audio signal, as well as DTS and Dolby Digital 2.0/5.1 surround sound signals, may be sent via a coaxial digital audio link. It is also possible to listen to Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES Matrix, and Discrete 6.1 soundtracks without any issues.

Multichannel LPCM, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and high-definition audio formats such as DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD are not supported via coaxial transmission. You also won’t be able to play DVD-Audio or SACD audio because of license limitations.

Due to the fact that 7.1 soundtracks are only accessible in high-resolution formats, they will not play back as intended. Your player’s handbook will inform you how it will handle any audio formats that are not supported by the player when they are transmitted via the coaxial output.

Some popular methods include downmixing the audio to stereo PCM or just displaying a lower quality version of the video. If you wish to play this kind of music in its intended format, you will need to connect your device through an HDMI port.

Which Digital Audio Connection Should I Use?

When it comes to transmitting digital audio signals, an HDMI connection is generally the most convenient option to use. The reason for this is that HDMI supports every kind of audio transmission now available and that everything – video and audio – can be sent via a single connection.

If, on the other hand, you do not have access to an HDMI port, a coaxial digital audio cable is a great alternative for transmitting audio between devices. You will be able to hear both conventional stereo audio and 5.1 surround sound via this kind of connection.

If you’re transmitting multi-channel audio from a DVD player or computer to your surround sound system, you’ll most likely be using a coaxial digital output. Alternatively, a CD player may be connected to a stereo amplifier.

It’s possible that your television has a coaxial out on the back. For the purpose of sending the audio to a power amplifier or AV receiver. Although, modern televisions seem to feature an optical output that may be used for this purpose.

However, it is possible that your television is equipped with coax instead. It makes no difference which. As long as your amplifier’s inputs are all of the same kind, you’re good to go.

Moreover, even if you don’t have one, you may be able to utilize a converter to convert from one format to another (see below).

OUR TOP RECOMMENDED COAXIAL CABLE FOR AUDIO

1. AudioQuest Cinnamon Digital Coaxial Cable

AudioQuest Cinnamon Digital Coaxial Cable

AudioQuest produces high-quality products in a number of price ranges, and the VDM-A is a good example of how to strike a balance between price and quality.

The solid copper conductors of this digital coaxial audio cable are silver-plated, while the RCA connectors are gold-plated. Signals such as S/PDIF (digital audio) need a large amount of bandwidth and must go around the outside of the conductor.

As a result, the silver-plated wire has the greatest conductivity and the best signal transmission of all wires. The VDM-A additionally has a strong foam insulation layer around the conductors to further protect them.

In this way, their location is maintained over the whole length of the wire, and there are no differences in impedance between the ends of the cable.

The whole cable is shielded with foil and braid to prevent interference, and the ends are terminated with RCA connectors that have been gold-plated for durability. This is an excellent bargain in an audiophile digital audio coaxial cable that will enhance the acoustic performance of your system.

2. Wireworld STV Starlight 8 Digital Coaxial Cable is a high-performance digital coaxial cable.

Wireworld STV Starlight 8 Digital Coaxial Cable is a high-performance digital coaxial cable.

The WireWorld Starlight 6 digital audio connector is an excellent option for music and home theater enthusiasts who want to guarantee that all of the 1s and 0s get to where they need to go in perfect phase and with no signal degradation, without sacrificing quality.

This cable is made up of silver-plated copper wires for optimum conductivity, which is then wrapped by unique insulation materials developed by the manufacturer.

In addition, instead of gold-plated RCA plugs, WireWorld utilizes silver-plated oxygen-free connections to guarantee the highest level of communication and conductivity.

A silver-plated copper shield surrounds the conductor, and this shield is likewise silver-plated. All of this adds up to signal transmission and noise rejection which are almost flawless. This is an exceptionally good cable that is well worth the money.

3. Monster Digital Coaxial Cable, 4′ in length

Monster Digital Coaxial Cable, 4′ in length

A great cable from Monster is associated with the brand name, and the MC 600DCX is a cable that fits squarely into the “very good” category.

A full-coverage shielding system and high-purity copper strand conductors ensure that the S/PDIF signal arrives at the component in exactly the same condition as it was transmitted.

Because of the presence of a specific dielectric insulator around the conductors, changes in cable properties such as impedance induced by movement or crimping are prevented.

In order to improve conductivity and corrosion resistance, the RCA connections have been 24K gold plated.

And, although it may seem inconsequential, the MC 600DCX features a thick satin silver surface that may be used to blend into the backdrop when wires are not fully concealed.

4. CablesForLess’s 7ft Digital Coaxial Cable is of very high quality.

CablesForLess’s 7ft Digital Coaxial Cable is of very high quality.

With an emphasis on providing high-quality cables at an affordable price, CablesForLess is a small business that hand-assembles its own brand of high-quality cables.

Their Super High-Quality coaxial connection is an excellent illustration of the goods offered by this business.

A solid oxygen-free copper conductor and a dual foil/braid shield are used in the construction of this cable, which is manufactured by Belden. Canare’s RCA connectors have a gold plating on them.

These cables do not have the very tight tolerances for impedance that other, more expensive products have, nor are they as thick or as robust as other, more expensive ones.

However, if you do not have a $10,000 system, or if you do not have any problems with electrical interference, you will be pleased with the Super High-Quality coaxial audio cable that is available.

5. Belkin Digital Optical Digital Coaxial Cable (Optical Digital Coaxial Cable)

Belkin Digital Optical Digital Coaxial Cable (Optical Digital Coaxial Cable)

The Belkin PureAV is a reliable option for connecting digital sources to amplifiers, receivers, and other A/V equipment that has digital inputs and outputs with RCA connectors, such as home theater receivers.

The Belkin PureAV is built on a foundation of RG-6 cable with an oxygen-free copper wire as the basis of its operation.

Although RG-6 does not have the same bandwidth (signal transfer capacity) as RG-59, it is sufficient for digital audio transmission and recording.

This cable also has a dual shielding system (foil and braid) to reduce the likelihood of interference being picked up.

Proper connections are ensured at both ends by using gold-plated RCA connectors with a six-cut design.

The fact that this cable is covered by a lifetime guarantee is an added bonus. Not much worse than this product from Belkin could be found.

6. Triple shielded coaxial cable (30 feet in length)

Triple shielded coaxial cable (30 feet in length)

It is possible to use the gold-plated 30-foot coaxial cable for a variety of applications.

It facilitates the connection of a wide range of devices such as a satellite receiver, VCR, antenna, cable television, computer network connection, converter box, digital audio, and so on and so forth.

As an added bonus, it has a Triple Shielded RG6, making it suitable for use both inside and outdoors. Furthermore, this cable is designed to transmit a large amount of energy while protecting your device from an unexpected electric shock.

The cable, which is well-known for its fire safety standards, is used for a variety of devices including intercom systems, security systems, nurse call buttons, speaker wires, and other accessories.

Moreover, it is very robust and does not readily break or get loose. The gold-plated interface, on top of everything, provides a smooth surface that attaches effortlessly to any device.

Is It Possible To Convert Digital Coaxial Audio To Optical Audio?

You’ve come to the right place. Yes, it is possible.

A coaxial-to-optical converter, which converts one S/PDIF type into another, may be purchased if you need to link a coaxial-to-optical converter with an optical input.

One such converter is shown below, which takes a coaxial digital audio output (for example, from your Blu-ray player) and transforms it into an optical signal that may be used to power your amplifier.

Other converters will do this conversion in the other direction, so be sure to double-check before purchasing to ensure that you are purchasing the correct one.

If you’re still not sure, you might go for a converter that can take both optical and coaxial S/PDIF audio, just to be cautious. Depending on the input signal, this 2-way optical/coaxial audio converter may produce either a coaxial or optical signal, depending on the output signal.

Consequently, it may be used as a splitter to transmit the audio signal to two separate locations at the same time, in addition to being utilized as a S/PDIF audio converter to convert between the two formats. That may be very beneficial in some instances.

CONCLUSION On Best Coaxial Cable For Audio

Keep in mind that if you are transmitting the movie audio to a stereo speaker system, you will need to make sure that the stereo soundtrack is selected in the playback device’s settings. Either that or a large number of players may be configured to downmix a surround sound mix into stereo.

If you are transmitting audio via a television’s digital coaxial audio output, you will need to change the audio output format from MP3 to PCM. This guarantees that stereo audio is sent from the TV to the converter.

FAQs About Best Coaxial Cable For Audio