exactly what type cables?

  • Thread starter Thread starter deepseasquid
  • Start date Start date
D

deepseasquid

New member
Hey to all.......What type of cables do I need for connecting mixer to soundcard/breakout box, and mixer to power amp? I know they are all 1/4" connectors, but what guage/brand/etc? I know I need shielded cables, and I know I don't want to use regular guitar cables, but that's all I have to go on. Can you guys help me out? I will be using M-audio Delta 66, and a Mackie 1202. Also, does shielded equal balanced? I'll do some studying if I need to...just point the way. Thanks in advance.
 
For connecting the mixer to the amp or soundcard use regular 1/4" cables. They are usually labeled as PATCH cables.

For your speakers always use SPEAKER cables. The guage will depend on the power amp and is probably recomended on the back of the amp or in the manual.

A balanced cable is known as TRS (Tip Ring Sleeve) and is the same as a stereo cable. It is the same as an XLR cable with 1/4" jacks. All cables are sheilded to some degree.

I usually use HOSA cables or any cheap cable. Some people swear by expensive Monstor cables and such and say they give you a better sound. In my 15yrs of experience I have never noticed one properly working cable sound better than another. But expensive cables will usually last longer and the jacks are easier to repair.
 
Thanks, Tex....... I appreciate the response. No difference between Hi-rez and Lo-rez for my small rec. needs?
 
There are no Hi or lo rez cables. There are low and high impedance but you dont really have to worry about that with what you are using.

When you go the store have a list of all your outs and ins and hopefully the sales guy will steer you in the right direction.
 
Yo Squid: [Have you counted your tentacles?}

You should have a GOOD cable for you mic. And, other cables will be contraversial as to how good monster may be over others.

I just bought one cable for my mic. It's a Zaolla mic cable and it looks very very good. But, I'm not an engineer and I can't give you voltage specifics. However, it does have Neutrik plugs, excuse the spelling if I missed.

The Zaolla is made by Hosa which many members on this site spurn. It looks like a cabel you see on the hi-powered ads for gear. Very thick, good bindings, and the Z has a "silver" center wire of which I've heard yea, and nay.

When I use it a bit, I'll know more. I also use a couple of good quality Monster cables for my synth into the recorder. Sometimes cables are very subjective but can reach an objective.

Green Hornet


:cool: :cool: :D :D :p
 
Hey thanks, Mr. Hornet........yeah, I just want quality, so 's I don't have to buy 'em again when I learn what I'm doing. I don't need the best or the worst, know what I mean? Thanks for posting a reply.....I'm gettin' closer now.
 
>and I know I don't want to use regular guitar cables,

This would only matter if you're trying to send a balanced signal from your mixer to your soundcard. In that case you'd want a TRS balanced cable. Have you got XLR jacks on both sides? Another option. If you're dealing with 1/4" jacks on either side, there is no problem using guitar cords. The reason being the guitar cord is made to keep much more noise susceptible signals quiet than a line level signal going to your soundcard.
 
Thanks, drstawl........I'm starting to learn a few things. Thanks for posting back.
 
I'm starting to learn a few things.
Click to expand...


Same here. Satisfied HOSA users and guitar cables between mixer and soundcard - that's what I want to hear. Best thread in weeks - for me.
 
I'll endorse HOSA but not guitar cables as Patch cables. I believe there is some difference between mono Patch and Guitar cables but I could be mistaken.
 
Actually, I hope you're right. I'll be replacing all my cables soon - almost certainly with HOSAs, as they're almost all I can get hold of. If retiring the guitar cables in favour of patch cables results in an improvement in sound I'll be thoroughly chuffed.

Are the cables HOSA call audio cables on their website the same as patch cables?
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top