Does Cable Quality Really Matter?
14 Apr 10
Do more expensive cables make any difference to your AV system?
When putting a good system together, the logic is simple: every component matters!
The audio visual equipment, speakers, cables, even each connector will have an influence on what you see and hear. But when it comes to cables, bigger prices do not necessarily mean better quality.
There is one common misconception that we should firstly clarify: no matter how much you spend on a cable, it cannot improve a signal.
The purpose of the cable is to transfer an audio, video or digital signal from one place to another without changing any of the information. Now this is not as simple as is sounds. Some degree of loss or damage will always occur when a signal passes through your cable (especially over long distances) and through your audio visual equipment. So the basic goal when choosing any component of your system is to minimize signal damage.
Here we will explore what influences the performance of your cable and what you should consider before deciding how much to spend on your cable. Firstly, lets look at what at determines the performance of your cable.
Cable Material
The key to minimizing the loss or damage to the signal is in the material used, such as gold, nickel, brass, aluminum, copper or silver. Pure silver is the very best performing material for audio, video or digital signals. You will find that much less signal damage occurs when a high proportion of silver is used in the cable.
However, before you go rushing out to buy silver cables, be aware that a pair of 15 metre high grade silver cables can cost more than an average family car! And guess what? After spending all that money, they may actually make no impact on the quality of your picture or sound!
Why? Well there are several other factors that will also influence the performance of your system.
Material Quality
By material quality we mean the way the metal has been processed and this can have a dramatic effect on your cable. Even a low grade copper cable can sound or look better than silver which has been poorly processed. So you can't choose the cable on the material used alone, you really need to understand the specifications of the cable.
Shielding
Shielding also plays an important role in cables by preventing any external interference from degrading your signal within the cable. A common problem in a low-grade cable is the lack of density and uniformity of their shielding, and this is often the cause of many poor performing systems.
Directionality
Many people don't realize that all cables are directional, so it is important that they are connected correctly. A good quality installation by AV specialists will ensure you don't end up with a distorted image and sound.
Connectors
Poor quality connectors can also negate any of the potential positives your higher quality cable offers. Advice on choosing the right connectors to accompany each cable is paramount.
Your AV equipment
Finally and most importantly, understanding the capabilities of your AV equipment will assist you in choosing the right cable. So many times we have seen a high grade (and very expensive cable) recommended in a system which is incapable of reproducing that quality of digital, video or audio signal.
So if you have a mid-range audio system, it is absolutely pointless and a total waste of money buying top-of-the-range cables.
Our Advice
The most expensive option is not necessarily the best for you. Firstly, talk to a specialist about your AV system (AV equipment, room set-up etc.) and get advice on what grade of cable would suit your equipment capabilities.
Secondly, always use an experienced and professional installation team to ensure your equipment is wired for maximum benefit.
Need Advice?
Call 1300 369 451
or email us and we'll get back to you promptly.
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