Collection: Cables

Cables: What to Know

Cables are the circulatory system of any audio setup. XLR, TRS, TS, MIDI, USB, optical, coaxial, each connector type serves a specific purpose, and using the wrong one means signal degradation, ground loops, or no sound at all. Studio engineers need balanced cables to reject noise over long runs. DJs need durable, flexible cables that survive constant coiling and movement. Producers working with modular synths need patch cables with reliable solder joints. The right cable is invisible. The wrong one is every click, hum, and dropout you'll spend hours troubleshooting.

What to Look For

Start with connector type: XLR for balanced mic and line signals, quarter-inch TRS for balanced or unbalanced instrument and patch, TS for unbalanced instrument, RCA for consumer line level, MIDI DIN for sequencing and control. Cable construction matters. Oxygen-free copper conductors reduce resistance. Braided or foil shielding blocks RF interference. Strain relief at the connector prevents internal breaks. For stage and studio work, look for cables rated for repeated flexing, cheap cables fail at the solder joint after a few gigs. Length affects signal: passive instrument cables over 20 feet lose high-end clarity. Digital cables (S/PDIF, ADAT, AES/EBU) require proper impedance matching; a standard audio cable will cause dropouts. For modular and Eurorack, verify cable diameter fits your case density and patch point spacing.

Top Brands

Hosa dominates with affordable, reliable cables for every application. Digiflex offers Canadian-made touring-grade cables built for punishment. Warm Audio and Shure bring premium construction for critical signal paths.

Shop Cables at Blackout Audio

A bad cable will cost you more in troubleshooting time than the price difference between budget and quality construction. Pair your new interface, mixer, or synth with cables that match its performance. Free shipping on orders over $199 across Canada. Browse the full range online and contact our team with questions about length, connector type, or application-specific needs.