Types of audio connectors - analogue
Audio connectors, which are used today, can be basically divided into two types: analogue and digital. Analogue audio cables and connectors available in our shop include RCA, or popular cinch audio cable - this connection uses asymmetrical signals, and at considerable distances is susceptible to interference. Connectors with shielded wires and gold-plated plugs show better properties. Jack connector is one of the most popular solutions in the audio world. Audio input cables come in 6.3 mm, 3.5 mm and 2.5 mm sizes.
Types of audio connectors - digital
We also recommend digital audio cables and connectors from our range. You may decide to choose for example a Toslink audio input cable, which is a non-interference sensitive connector that uses optical fibre and carries the data in light pulses. The second recommended audio input cable is HDMI - this is currently the most popular audio cable on the audio-video market, offering simultaneous transmission of uncompressed audio and video. There are several types of this connector: type A - which is the classic and most common type of cable for HDMI audio, type C - the so-called mini HDMI, and type D, which is micro HDMI.
Small differences, significant differences - audio connection cables
In addition to the types of HDMI inputs, the connector has several standards. From 2000 to 2016, the connector has undergone quite a transformation and now comes in version 2.1, which supports up to 48 Gbps. When choosing an audio cable from the audio cables and connectors section, it's worth taking a closer look at the Toslink standard, which delivers lossless audio in 5.1/7.1 formats. The cable transmits it digitally via light pulses, so it's not susceptible to radio or electromagnetic interference - plus, it outputs the same signal as it received at the input, which means a huge advantage over analogue cables.
Keep this in mind when shopping for an audio cable
When you decide to buy a cable from the range of audio cables and connectors, it is worth knowing in advance what length of cable you need. This is important with cheaper cables, where interference and transmission errors can occur. Digital cables are less susceptible to such problems, which does not mean that we can lay, for example, 50 m of such cable without problems. The Toslink standard ensures quality up to 30m. When choosing this type of cable, we should also pay attention to the supported bandwidth - the optimal one is between 9 MHz and 11 MHz. Remember that when laying a Toslink cable, you must not bend it, which may lead to irreparable damage to the optical fibre. If you have high-end playback equipment and a set of speakers with an amplifier, it is worth investing in a good optical cable. In Botland offer you will also find HD audio cable, which will provide sound effects at the highest level.
