FAQ's About Instrument Cables
Does it make sense to replace one cable with a VOVOX® sound conductor in a chain of standard cables if all other cables have not been replaced?
The sound quality achieved is the sum of the different parts making up the audio chain. Regarding a chain of cables, it would be wrong to think that the cables with the poorest quality will represent a "sound bottleneck" limiting all other cables. In fact, all parts contribute to the final result to a certain degree. Consequently, it's possible to achieve a gradual improvement with each replaced cable in a chain.
How big is the influence of the cable's length on sound quality?
Though this question seems to be simple, it is quite complicated to give an answer that is correct in all cases. Here is some general information:
- In the case of passive speaker cables, the influence of length on the sound is quite large. The longer the cable, the bigger the loss of sound quality.
- In the case of unbalanced cables and sources with high impedance like electric guitars, the influence of length is quite noticeable.
- In the case of unbalanced cables and sources with low impedance the influence is smaller, but still significant.
- In the case of balanced cables, the influence of length is relatively small
Especially in case of instrument cables it makes much sense to use short cables. They are less expensive and at the same time offer better sound quality.
How can I recognize the correct alignment of the sound conductors?
The correct alignment is marked with the VOVOX® label. Please connect the end of the sound conductor marked with the VOVOX® label to the signal receiver. In case of an instrument cable this means that the end with the label should be plugged in at the amplifier.
How should VOVOX® sound conductors be treated to make sure they will reach their maximum lifetime?
VOVOX cables are robust. Nevertheless it is recommended to handle them with some care:
- Do not fold or knot the cable
- Try to avoid a very small bending radius
- It is not recommended to coil the cable around one's elbow (as electricians sometimes do): This may ruin the cable over time. In addition, this does not allow an orderly coil as the cable becomes twisted and will attempt to free itself from this position.
- Carefully choose the kind of connector that suits you best: Using a 90° right angle plug will often reduce the mechanical stress on the instrument as well as on the cable. Like this it contributes to longer service life of both, cable and jack.
Can VOVOX® sound conductors also be used on stage?
VOVOX® instrument cables are used by many professionals not only in the recording studio, but also live on stage. They are suited for this application without restriction.
Are gold-plated contacts always the better choice?
The outstanding properties of gold are undisputed. As it does not corrode, it durably protects contacts from oxidation. In the case of connectors that are rarely removed, this property is an important criterion. But the situation is different in regards to instrument cables. Here, cables are inserted and removed very often. As a consequence, corrosion products are is mechanically removed. Furthermore, the benefit of gold plated contacts is very limited unless both plug and jack are plated. However, in reality, one scarcely encounters gold plated jacks.
Practical tests have proven that – if sound quality is the main criteria – gold doesn't necessarily offer the best results. As a consequence of several blindfolded tests, our choice is nickel-plated contacts. In case we have to decide between a beautiful look and beautiful sound, our choice is clear. No gold plated contacts.
Plugs with muting function?
Many musicians are looking for plugs with automated muting function. These help avoid annoying pops and squeals when hot swapping instruments. We take muting very seriously. For this reason, we are convinced that plugs with muting function are satisfactory only in case they are durable, and the muting function works in 100% of the cases. In our experience, no plug on the market can actually fulfil this requirement. As we don't like doing things halfway, we shall not offer plugs with muting function before we are fully convinced of their quality.
