Audio cables

Audio cables for connecting a computer, TV, amplifier or speakers: our range includes 3.5 mm cables, optical TOSLINK, RCA and BNC cables, and extension leads. Shiverpeaks, Delock, InLine and S-CONN maximum connectivity have the most models, and the category holds over 500 products in total.

How to choose an audio cable

Connector type. Start by checking which sockets both devices have. Most cables in our range use 3.5 mm connectors (for headphone and line-out sockets) or TOSLINK connectors (for optical digital output), and there are also cables with 2 x RCA and BNC connectors. The cable needs to end in the connectors your equipment uses, because many of these types cannot be mixed without an adapter.

Analogue or optical signal. 3.5 mm and RCA cables carry an analogue signal, while a TOSLINK cable carries a digital signal as pulses of light. An optical cable does not pick up electrical interference, so it makes sense for linking a TV or computer to a soundbar or amplifier, provided both have an optical socket. If your devices only have 3.5 mm sockets, an optical cable will not help.

Male or female ends. In our range, nearly all cables have a male plug on the first end, and most have a plug on the second end too, although some variants have a female socket. Choose a cable with a plug on one end and a socket on the other when you need to extend an existing headphone or speaker lead. To connect two devices, a cable with plugs on both ends is enough.

Length. Pick a length with a little slack but not a large excess. Our range includes cables of 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 5 and 10 m. An analogue signal picks up interference more easily over a long run, so desktop speakers need only a short cable, and 5 or 10 m leads are mainly for home cinema or stage equipment.

Audio cable brands

• Delock: a German brand known for a very large selection of cables, adapters and interface accessories for computers.
• InLine: a German brand offering computer cables and accessories, including audio and optical cables.
• Hama: a German company, founded in 1923, that makes consumer electronics accessories, including cables for TVs and audio equipment.
• Speaka Professional: the in-house brand of Conrad Electronic, focused on more professional connecting cables and longer lengths.
• Wentronic: a manufacturer whose cables are also sold under the Goobay name, a common source of everyday household connections.
• EFB Elektronik: a German company best known for structured cabling systems and network cables.

Also in our range: Shiverpeaks, S-CONN maximum connectivity, LogiLink, Microconnect, Value and SBOX audio cables.

Frequently asked questions about audio cables

What cable do I need to connect speakers to a computer?

In most cases a 3.5 mm cable with plugs on both ends is enough, running from the computer's line-out to the speaker input. If your speakers or amplifier have RCA inputs, you need a cable with 2 x RCA connectors. Check the sockets on both devices before buying.

Is an optical TOSLINK cable better than a 3.5 mm cable?

Not always, it depends on your equipment. TOSLINK carries a digital signal and is immune to electrical interference, but it only works if both devices have optical sockets. For ordinary speakers or headphones, a 3.5 mm cable is the more suitable choice.

What length of audio cable should I buy?

Choose a cable slightly longer than the distance between the devices so it is not stretched tight. At a desk, 1 or 2 m is usually enough, 2 or 3 m often suits a TV and soundbar, and 5 or 10 m cables are for larger rooms. An overly long analogue cable can pick up more interference.

What is the difference between a male and a female audio connector?

A male connector is a plug that goes into a device socket, and a female connector is the socket that accepts another plug. A cable with a plug on one end and a socket on the other is an extension lead, used to lengthen an existing headphone or speaker cable. To link two devices, you need a cable with plugs on both ends.