Get to know the best audio connector brands that most cable makers use.
Audio connectors are one of the least mentioned elements in professional audio. Without the connectors, there are no cable assemblies, and without cables, audio equipment will not work as one system. In this post, I am going to list down the best audio connectors brands to help enthusiasts, musicians and producers make an informed decision when buying or building interconnecting cables.
Neutrik
Originated in Switzerland, Neutrik is a global leader in audio connectors and known for their XLRs, 1/4 inch plugs & jacks, RCAs, speakons and powercons. Neutrik is the top choice of cable makers, musicians and producers because of its durability and global distribution. User testimonials show that Neutrik connectors can last for more than 10 years. If you own a Soundcraft mixer, it uses Neutrik XLRs and 1/4 inch jacks. Neutrik is so famous that too many counterfeit products and copied designs are being sold everywhere, even in online marketplaces. Purchase only from registered agents to avoid counterfeit products.
Website: https://www.neutrik.com/en
Origin: Switzerland
Amphenol
mphenol is famous with its slim designs - a first choice when limited space is a deal-breaker. Similar to Neutrik, Amphenol also offers wide-array of professional audio connectors. However, the company offer also for portable audio, such as, mini XLRs and 3.5mm plugs. Amphenol is also a favorite counterfeit design, so buy only from distributors.
Website: http://www.amphenolaudio.com/
Origin: Australia
Rean
Rean is an affordable sub-brand of Neutrik. They offer XLRs, 1/4 inch plugs & jacks, 3.5mm plugs, right-angled pancake plugs, combo jacks, RCA, speakon and powercon. A trusted source told that Rean is fully manufactured in China to make the cost affordable, which makes sense.
Website: https://www.rean-connectors.com/en
Origin: Switzerland
Switchcraft
Switchcraft has been in the market since 1946 and the most expensive of all. Though known for durable products, their design is somehow old and outdated. Switchcraft has global distribution network but significantly less compared to Neutrik and Amphenol.
Website: https://www.switchcraft.com/
Origin: USA
DH Connectors
Made in Italy, DH offers respectable and ergonomic connector designs. What is good about this brand is they offer bulk cables and cable assembly. That makes them a one-stop-shop for wide range of customers. DH official distribution network is limited only around Europe. Some pro-audio dealers outside Europe sell some of their products.
Website: https://www.dhprostage.com/index.php
Origin: Italy
Roxtone
This brand is probably has the most offerings for pro-audio connections. From connectors, adapters, bulk cables, cable assembly and snake cables, they have it. Roxone designs stand out among other brands - they are fit for the new generation. You can find here all the possible variants one would think of a connector. What is missing though are connectors that supports mobile phone, such as 3.5mm TRRS plug and 3.5mm 4 pole female jack and widely used audiophile connector sizes of 2.5mm and 4.4mm. Roxtone is a new player founded in 2002, so let's see what they can offer.
Website: https://www.roxtone.com/
Origin: China
I hope that this post help you find quality connectors for your upcoming projects. Be it for your home studio, new audio interface of mixer, or want to start a reselling business.
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