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::cables::

F.A.Q.

Cable Knowledge
for Your Brain!

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       Gold is one of the best electrical conductors, but the immediate difference in sound quality between gold and nickel contacts is often minimal. The real advantage lies in gold’s superior resistance to corrosion and oxidation, which nickel contacts are more prone to.


       Over time, oxidation on nickel contacts can build up quickly, leading to unreliable signal flow and a noticeable loss of high frequencies, resulting in dull and unclear audio. Gold contacts, on the other hand, maintain their performance over a longer lifespan, ensuring clean, clear audio for years to come.


       Investing in gold-plated contacts not only enhances sound quality over the long term but also extends the life of your cables, making them a more reliable and cost-effective choice.

 

       There's a reason why Mogami is called "The Cable of the Pros." Virtually every major recording facility is wired with Mogami, which means that just about any music you listen to has passed through Mogami somewhere in the recording chain—from Fleetwood Mac to Foo Fighters, from Prince to Pearl Jam, and countless others.

       Why do so many discriminating artists and studios choose Mogami over other cable brands? It's simple. Mogami is unmatched for accuracy, extremely low noise, ease of installation, flexibility, and superior quality. Professionals and enthusiasts alike rave about the amazing clarity and silent background of Mogami—technicians swear by it, not at it.

 

       Mogami has always had a relentless devotion to quality, integrity and ethical business practices. Every foot of Mogami cable is made in Nagano, Japan under the direct supervision of the company founder who continues to work every day. Comprised of true craftsmen, Mogami refuses to compromise quality for cost savings, and never copies the work of others. In today's global economy, it's often difficult to track who really makes a branded cable or other products. Unlike such brands, Mogami completely controls its design and manufacturing process and will never use a "silent partner" factory. Each product is certified to meet very rigid specifications, which are published and verifiable. There are no "secret ingredients" or mysticism attached to the performance of our products. Mogami is also dedicated to responsible manufacturing and was the first cable factory to meet RoHS requirements for everything they make.

 

       Mogami has a clear-cut philosophy. Design cables that offer the most accurate signal transfer possible. This may seem like a logical goal, but in fact many cable companies alter the signal for what they perceive to be the "best sound." The problem with creating this unnatural distortion is that it permanently alters the signal flowing through the cable. The distortion may make a particular piece of equipment sound better at one frequency but worse at another. The essence of the original signal is lost forever.

       There is no single magic bullet for cable design. Superior design is a mix of conductor material, dielectric, conductor and shield geometry, jacket stiffness, along with fanatical dedication to manufacturing quality. Only technical expertise combined with years of experience can result in the kind of performance that transcends the ordinary.

 

       Every component in your signal chain—including the gear and the cables that connect them—affects the overall sound quality. A single weak link, whether it’s a low-quality piece of equipment or a subpar cable, can degrade your signal and impact the final output.

       While replacing individual low-quality cables with Mogami will start to make a small, incremental improvement, you won’t experience the full impact until your entire signal chain is outfitted with clean, high-quality Mogami cabling.

       For the best clarity, detail, and overall sonic performance, upgrading your entire setup with premium cables ensures a pure, interference-free signal path from start to finish.

 

       What you see in our online store is just a small selection of the standard cables we offer. At ((pSYONIC)), we specialize in custom-built solutions because we know that one-size-fits-all doesn’t work for everyone.

If you need something specific, we’ve got you covered! You can:



🔹 Give us a call—we love speaking with our clients directly to ensure we get every detail right. Sometimes, email alone doesn’t cut it when discussing custom needs.
(303) 292-1666

Let’s build the perfect cable for your setup—reach out today!

🔹 Submit a quote request for single cables or multi-channel snakes—just head to the Cables menu in the navigation bar.
 

       For an in-depth look at all Mogami cable configurations, including detailed specifications and verified performance data, Mogami’s technical catalog is the ultimate resource. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to understand the different cable types and their applications.




Get the details you need to make the best choice for your setup!

📥 Download the official Mogami technical catalog here. (PDF File Format)
 

       While it may be tempting to use regular analog cables for digital signals such as AES/EBU, S/PDIF, or DMX, it’s not recommended. According to Mogami:

        “In order to properly transmit a completely digital signal, it’s critical for the impedance of the cable to match the AES 110-ohm specifications. Many cables come close to the spec for short runs, but longer distances reveal impedance variations that cause signal reflection and loss of information. Not with Mogami digital. Based on the technology of our acclaimed Neglex analog cables, our AES/EBU digital cable uses precision dielectrics and strict manufacturing procedures for loss-free transmission in lengths up to 470 ft.”

       Similarly, DMX (110-ohm) and S/PDIF (75-ohm) cables made with Mogami are engineered specifically for digital signal transmission, ensuring fewer errors, reduced signal loss, and better overall performance compared to using standard analog XLR or RCA cables.

🔹 Avoid signal degradation, errors, and digital glitches—use the right cables for the job!

 

       According to Mogami, “There’s some debate as to whether it’s possible to control the arrival of specific audio frequencies with the use of special windings or different size wire conductors. For example, small wire conductors for high frequency, mid-sized wire conductors for mid-range and large wire conductor for bass. While this approach works well in a 3-way speaker system with a crossover to separate the frequencies, there are no crossovers in cable and electrons cannot be “trained” to go where you’d like them. In reality, all frequencies end up in all conductors. If different length conductors are used, at best all that really happens is that the sound is smeared and highs are rolled off.”

 

       According to Mogami, “Shielding is an overlooked, yet essential ingredient in cable design and does more than simply block noise. Shielding functions by converting electrostatic noise into voltage and transmitting it to ground—a process that can affect both noise level and tone. Mogami cable goes beyond braided strands and uses our Ultra High Density Spiral design with stranded copper so precisely wound that one layer achieves 100% coverage— a statement few manufacturers can make. Our signature shielding is just one of many intricate design factors that make Mogami the number one choice of engineers and sound professionals who can hear the difference.”

 

       According to Mogami, “Specifications for some AES cables, especially for capacitance, can look very attractive for analog transmission. However, the materials and design of many AES cables don’t perform well in high performance analog transmission. Mogami Gold AES cable is designed with the same type of shielding and conductors as our world renowned analog cables, in a special low capacitance version that fully meets the stringent AES requirements. Gold AESwill perform exceptionally for the most demanding high end analog recording and monitoring where transparency, detail and frequency extension are critical.”

       Translation of that is that is yes, if you are wanting more boosted high-end frequency response in your signals, this can be a viable alternative, however if you are looking for a more neutral and flat frequency response, ((pSYONIC)) recommends one of the more traditional analog cable models.

 

        A quad cable features four separate insulated conductors and a shield, designed for superior noise rejection and signal integrity. In this configuration:
🔹Two conductors are twisted together for the positive signal.
🔹Two conductors are twisted together for the negative signal.
🔹The entire assembly is protected by a shield—in Mogami’s case, a high-quality copper wire spiral.

       In contrast, a standard balanced cable contains only two insulated conductors and a shield, with:
🔹One conductor carrying the positive signal.
🔹One conductor carrying the negative signal.
🔹Again, the entire assembly is protected by a shield—in Mogami’s case, a high-quality copper wire spiral.

Why Choose Quad Cables?

       Mogami highlights the importance of quad cables in environments with high levels of RF and EM interference, particularly in today's wireless-driven world. As they explain:

        "A good quad cable is critical in any environment with high levels of RF and EM noise, especially in today’s wireless world. Quad cables use double conductors and are far more effective (15 dB more effective) than standard balanced cables in canceling noise that can creep past even the best shield."

       By doubling the conductors and enhancing noise cancellation, quad cables provide unmatched clarity and reliability, making them the preferred choice for professional audio applications where pristine sound quality is essential in electrically noisy environments. Although ((pSYONIC)) recommends that in cases where you don’t have to worry as much about RF and EM noise, that standard balanced cable still be used, as it will preserve the high-end frequencies a bit more.

 

       According to Mogami, “You might see cables specifically marketed toward music genres. However, the electrical requirements of say blues and heavy metal are essentially identical—the goal should be to transfer the precise signal exactly and transparently. Since cable has no gain, altering tone means losing information at some frequencies relative to others.”

 

       It’s a simple truth that if you take care of your cables, they will take care of you… for years and years, if done properly. All good professional production personnel and studio guru’s know this. Your cables are an investment, treat them that way!

DO’s:
🔹 Use the professional over/under method when wrapping your cables.
🔹 Always wrap your cables and secure with a cable tie when not in use.
🔹 Keep your cables clean and free of debris. Windex glass cleaner and a paper towel work great!
🔹 Run your cables with proper strain relief and leave wide bends when going around a sharp corner.
🔹 IF oxidation builds up on your contact pins, clean with a solvent such as Caig DeOxit/ProGold (which also works well to make a better electrical contact). It may also require a little abrasion, try using some 400 grit sandpaper gently.

DO NOT’s:
🔹 Don’t wrap your cables around your arm like a power extension cord. This destroys the spiral or braided shield internally and will quickly render your cable useless.
🔹 Don’t tie your cable ends together after wrapping them. This is where shields go to die!
🔹 Don’t leave twists and bends in your cables. Again, issues will arise from shield being torqued.
🔹 Don’t twist or bend your cable sharply. Shield issues!
🔹 Don’t leave your cables covered in dirt and debris for long. It does happen, especially when playing out live. But prolonged dirt can lead to oxidation on the contacts and wear down the cable jacket prematurely.
🔹 Don’t pull on your cable when unplugging, always grab the connector to remove it from a jack.
🔹 Don’t stretch your cable by pulling it out from under some gear, move the gear, then move the cable.
🔹 Don’t use your cable as a tow strap (yeah, that’s right… for cars… you would be surprised)!
🔹 Don’t use your cables for play in the bedroom, they make special rope for that, ya know (are you still reading this, wow, you are dedicated)!

 

       The Under/Over Wrap Method for Cables: The Pro Technique

       The under/over wrap method is the industry-standard technique for coiling cables properly, ensuring they remain tangle-free, last longer, and lay flat when uncoiled. This method is widely used by audio professionals, videographers, and stage crews to extend the lifespan of cables and prevent internal damage.

Why Use the Under/Over Wrap?

✅ Prevents kinks and twists that can damage internal conductors
✅ Allows cables to uncoil smoothly without tangling
✅ Reduces stress on the cable jacket, extending cable life
✅ Saves time when setting up and tearing down


How to Wrap a Cable Using the Under/Over Method

1️⃣ Start with One End

        Hold one end of the cable in one hand and extend your other hand about arm’s length away.

2️⃣ The First Loop (Overhand Loop)

        Make a standard forward loop, wrapping the cable in the natural direction it wants to go.

3️⃣ The Second Loop (Underhand Loop)

        Instead of making another forward loop, twist your wrist inward as you grab the cable and loop it in the opposite direction (under). This allows the cable to coil in a way that naturally cancels out twists.

4️⃣ Repeat the Over/Under Pattern

        Continue alternating between overhand and underhand loops until the entire cable is coiled.

5️⃣ Secure the Coil

        Use Velcro ties, cable wraps, or loose knots to keep the coil intact without bending or crushing the cable.



Pro Tips for Success

🔹 Never force a cable into a coil—if it resists, adjust your loops.
🔹 Practice makes perfect! Once you get the rhythm, it becomes second nature.
🔹 Avoid wrapping cables around your elbow—this causes twists and weakens internal conductors.

       By using the under/over wrap method, your cables will last longer, perform better, and stay tangle-free every time you set up.

 

       NO!!! Danger, Danger, Will Robinson!!! In all seriousness, a guitar cable has a small conductor (like 22-26awg) and a copper shield meant for low voltage/high impedance signals. Using this between an amp and speaker cabinet, which is a high voltage/low impedance signal, can yield a very distorted or muffled sound at best, AT WORST IT CAN ACTUALLY OVERHEAT AND CATCH FIRE!

        When connecting your amp to your speaker cabinet, always use proper speaker cables designed for high-power signal transmission. Unlike instrument cables, speaker cables feature large conductors (typically 11-16 AWG) and no shielding, ensuring efficient power delivery without signal degradation.

🔹 Match the Gauge to the Wattage Load – Using the correct cable gauge is crucial to prevent resistance buildup, power loss, and potential damage to your amp or speakers. Higher wattage systems require thicker gauge cables (lower AWG numbers) to handle the load effectively.

       Avoid using instrument cables for speaker connections—protect your gear and ensure optimal performance with the right cables!