Audio Cables

3.5mm, XLR, RCA, and Optical Cables for Every Audio Connection

Audio cables deliver clean, interference-free signal between headphones, speakers, microphones, and audio equipment using 3.5mm, XLR, RCA, optical, and 1/4-inch connections. Oxygen-free copper conductors and braided shielding reject electromagnetic interference in electrically noisy environments like server rooms and stage rigs, all part of the broader cables catalog.

Audio Cables for Every Use Case

• Headphone and speaker connections — 3.5mm aux cables for headphones, portable speakers, and line-level audio from laptops, phones, and audio interfaces
• Professional microphone hookups — XLR cables for studio microphones, PA systems, live sound rigs, and broadcast equipment where noise rejection is critical
• Home theater and stereo systems — RCA cables for connecting amplifiers, receivers, turntables, and powered speakers in residential entertainment setups
• Digital audio connections — optical TOSLINK cables for soundbars, A/V receivers, and gaming consoles where electrical isolation eliminates ground loop hum
• Conference room audio — cables for connecting speakerphones, ceiling microphones, and room audio processors in meeting spaces

Choosing the Right Audio Cable

The right cable depends on the devices you are connecting and the distance between them. For consumer audio like headphones and portable speakers, 3.5mm cables are universal and inexpensive. For professional audio in studios, stages, and broadcast environments, XLR cables are the standard because their balanced, three-pin design cancels out noise over long runs. RCA handles home stereo and turntable connections. Optical TOSLINK provides clean digital audio between soundbars, gaming consoles, and A/V receivers without ground loop hum.

Balanced vs. Unbalanced Audio

Unbalanced cables (3.5mm, RCA, 1/4-inch TS) are susceptible to electromagnetic interference on runs longer than 15 to 20 feet, picking up hum from nearby power cables, motors, and fluorescent lighting. Balanced cables (XLR, 1/4-inch TRS) use a third conductor to cancel noise, making them reliable over runs of 100 feet or more. For any professional installation or cable run exceeding 15 feet, balanced connections are worth the additional cost.

Complete Your Audio Setup

• A/V Cables — RCA, component, and composite cables for legacy home theater and media equipment
• Video Cables — HDMI and DisplayPort cables to complement audio connections in display setups
• Microphones — USB and XLR microphones for podcasting, streaming, and conferencing
• Headsets — wired and wireless headsets for calls, gaming, and professional monitoring
• Soundbars and Speakers — powered speakers and soundbars to pair with your audio cabling