Whether for your guitar, bass, synthesizers, or studio hardware racks, having good jack cables is crucial.
Indeed, no one wants their live performance or studio recording to be ruined by faulty cables that pick up interference or generate background noise.
A good cable, in fact, should be transparent: it’s a means to connect your guitar to an amp, your bass to a DI box, or your audio interface to a rack compressor.
But it should never, ever compromise sound quality.
Problem: as they say, there are good cables and bad cables.
Through this article, I will provide you with as much information and advice as possible to choose good jack cables for your instrument or equipment—whether you’re looking for budget-friendly jack cables or high-quality jack cables with a more premium budget.
We will indeed cover the following topics:
- How to choose a jack cable?
- My selection of the best jack cables for instruments (guitar, bass…)
- My selection of the best TRS jack cables (for hardware or stereo equipment…)
- The best patch cables
- And for 3.5mm male-male jacks?
- The DIY option for jack cables
In short
If you don’t have much time and just want a quick two or three cable recommendations, here’s a super condensed table of the flagship models presented here:
| Model | My opinion | Click to see the price |
|---|---|---|
 Cordial CCI (TS) | An entry-level instrument cable (jack TS) but of good quality. | Thomann Woodbrass |
 Sommer Cable The Spirit XXL (TS) | A higher-end instrument cable (jack TS) that will last a long time and do the job perfectly. My favorite brand for cables. | Thomann Amazon |
 Sommer Cable Club Series (TRS) | A very good quality cable for connecting stereo or balanced devices (jack TRS) (a large part of my studio is wired with this type of cable). | Thomann |
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How to choose a jack cable?
Before recommending specific models of jack cables or making a comparison, it’s important to keep a number of points in mind regarding this type of cable.
Otherwise, you risk making a mistake and buying something either unsuitable or too expensive.
(Note that I have a similar guide for XLR cables for microphones, which may be useful to you)
Size of the jack connector
Instrument jack cables are available in different connector sizes, mainly 1/4 inch (6.35 mm) and 1/8 inch (3.5 mm). The choice between these two sizes depends on the equipment you are using.
- 1/4 inch (6.35 mm): These cables are commonly used for electric guitars, basses, keyboards, and other electric instruments such as analog synthesizers. The 1/4 inch jack connectors are sturdy and designed to withstand the physical stresses that these instruments often endure on stage.
- 1/8 inch (3.5 mm): These cables are thinner and are generally used for portable audio equipment such as smartphones, MP3 players, and some compact synthesizers like modular or semi-modular synthesizers. They are perfect for connections where space is limited, but they are not as robust as the 1/4 inch connectors.
The choice of jack connector size depends on your equipment. If you are connecting an electric guitar to an amp, a 6.35 mm jack cable is the standard. However, if you are working with smaller electronic devices or compact synthesizers, a 3.5 mm jack cable is what you need.
Note: On some low-quality cables (like those from Aliexpress), the size of the connectors is not perfect. About ten years ago, when I tried to buy very cheap cables on eBay for a project, I ended up with jacks that were slightly too large.
It is important to avoid such situations to prevent damaging the equipment you will be connecting them to.
Type of jack connector
Contrary to what one might sometimes believe, not all jack cables are suitable for use on guitars.
Indeed, there are different types of jack connectors, which can be easily differentiated by the number of bands on the connector, as you can see in the image below:
When looking for jack cables for your instruments and audio equipment, it is therefore important to understand the different types of connectors.
The most common jack connectors are TS (Tip-Sleeve), TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve), and TRRS (Tip-Ring-Ring-Sleeve):
- TS (Tip-Sleeve): TS cables are the simplest, with only two conductors: the tip and the sleeve. They are generally used for mono signals, such as those from electric guitars or basses. They are also used to transmit unbalanced line-level audio signals between audio devices.
- TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve): TRS cables add an additional ring and are used for stereo signals or to transmit balanced line-level audio signals between professional audio equipment. TRS cables are sometimes incorrectly referred to as “stereo jacks.”
- TRRS (Tip-Ring-Ring-Sleeve): TRRS cables are rarer and have three rings. They are used for stereo signals with a microphone, commonly found in headphones for smartphones and some portable audio devices.
The choice of connector type therefore depends on the application and the equipment you are using.
Make sure to select the type of cable that suits your needs to achieve the best audio quality and perfect compatibility with your musical equipment.
► If you want to learn more about studio cable types, to fully understand everything there is to know, check out my detailed guide on the subject.
Also note that there are different brands of connectors used by cable manufacturers. The most well-known and reliable are Neutrik, Rean, and Amphenol.
Note: Personally, my entire studio is wired with Amphenol connectors, as they are cheaper than Neutrik, but it is more often Neutrik that you find on readily available commercial cables.
Length of the jack cable
The length of jack cables is a crucial aspect to consider when purchasing these audio accessories.
Your choice will largely depend on the specific application for which you need the cable.
Here are some important points to consider regarding the length of jack cables:
- Distance between devices: The first obvious consideration is the distance between the devices you wish to connect. Measure the precise distance and choose a cable that will allow this connection without excessive tension or unnecessary clutter.
- Flexibility: The longer the cable, the more cumbersome and difficult it can be to manage. Short cables are convenient for close connections, while longer cables are useful when you need to cross a room or reach distant equipment.
- Signal quality: Keep in mind that the longer a cable is, the more it can be subject to signal degradation, especially since it will act like an antenna and pick up electromagnetic interference. This is especially true for guitar or bass jack cables, which are unbalanced: if you want to buy such a cable, I advise you to avoid cables longer than 5 or 6 meters. And especially, if you need a long cable, prefer a cable with good shielding (we’ll talk about this in a moment).
- Storage and transport: Think about how you will store and transport your cables. Long cables can be difficult to store and transport, while shorter cables are generally easier to handle.
- Versatility: It can be useful to have cables of different lengths for different situations. Having a few short cables and a few longer cables in your arsenal will allow you to adapt to various setups.
Shielding of the jack cable
Inside the cable, you always have (except for ultra-low-end cables) what is called shielding.
The shielding is designed to protect the audio signal from electromagnetic interference, such as background noise, hums, and hisses, which can occur due to the presence of radio waves, wifi, or others.
Good shielding thus helps maintain a clean and undisturbed audio signal.
The quality of shielding can vary from cable to cable, and high-quality jack cables are generally better shielded to provide maximum protection against interference.
But overall, as long as you invest a reasonable amount in your cable, except in really particular situations, you shouldn’t encounter any problems.
Keep in mind, however, that the longer the cable, the more likely it is to pick up interference. If you are using a jack cable over long distances, it is even more important to choose a well-shielded cable, especially when it comes to a guitar or bass jack cable.
Sound quality
We come to the topic that is indeed the most important: sound quality.
Of course, everyone wants their cable, as I mentioned in the introduction, to be as transparent as possible, as high-quality as possible in terms of sound.
And the marketing teams of brands take advantage of this: there are all sorts of prices for cables, from cheap jack cables at 2 or 3 euros to ultra-high-end cables at 200 € or more.
So which one to choose?
Well, I have good news for you: overall, all cables sound the same.
At least, on the standard lengths you will be using at home.
If you are using very, very long cables for live performances, however, there may be a potential attenuation of the highs — but in a usual
So, you might be asking me, why are there so many different models with such price variations?
Well, because there are indeed different qualities of cables, which mainly translate into two aspects:
- general mechanical strength: Are the connectors durable? Is the cable itself durable?
- protection against background noise: Is the shielding of good quality, or is it very light? Are there many copper wires, or are there only one or two?
And it’s just these differences that allow us to have cables of varying quality.
But to keep it simple: if your cable has quality connectors like Neutrik, if the cable itself is of good quality, and if there is adequate shielding, your cable will do the job perfectly without harming the sound quality.
Put differently: avoid 1€ cables from Aliexpress, but you don’t need a 200€ cable soldered on a full moon night and rubbed with magic powder.
By the way, that’s why my selection of favorite jack cables that you’ll find just below mainly includes reasonably priced cables.
My selection of the best jack cables for instruments (guitar, bass…)
Here are my favorite jack cables for instruments, meaning TS (asymmetrical) jack cables.
1. the sssnake GKP
Brand: the sssnake (Thomann brand)
Main application: instruments (TS cable)
Cable section: 0.22 mm²
Outer diameter: 3 mm
For this one, we are talking about ultra basic.
But hey, it’s one of Thomann’s brands, so it’s not bad either.
The build quality is decent, but it’s likely that from time to time you might need to redo some soldering that may have failed. At least, that happens to a number of people.
After that, in terms of price, it’s unbeatable.
Definitely an option to consider for those on a budget looking for a jack cable for guitar or bass to play at home.
For live performances, however, lean towards higher-end cables that will be more durable.
► See the price of the sssnake GKP cables:
2. Cordial CCI
Brand: Cordial
Main application: instruments (TS cable)
Cable section: 0.22 mm²
Outer diameter: 5.9 mm
With these Cordial cables, we immediately move to a better quality.
Sure, we are still in the entry-level range — but we are in what I would call “a good entry-level”, as the lifespan of these cables is good, despite a rather low price.
We are talking about a basic cable but with a very good quality/price ratio, specifically designed for use with guitars it seems.
We will note the presence of Rean connectors that are gold-plated and hand-soldered.
► See the price of the Cordial CCI cables:
- Length 1.5 meters: Woodbrass
- Length 3 meters: Thomann Woodbrass
- Length 3 meters (angled): Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
- Length 4.5 meters: Thomann
- Length 6 meters: Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
- Length 6 meters (angled): Thomann Woodbrass
- Length 9 meters: Thomann Woodbrass
- Length 9 meters (angled): Thomann
3. Fender Deluxe
Brand: Fender
Main application: instruments (TS cable)
Cable section: 0.52 mm²
Outer diameter: 8 mm
Even though I always feel like I’m paying a bit for the brand name, I find that Fender cables offer a good quality/price ratio, providing good performance and especially good build quality.
They are immediately noticeable, moreover, with their rather sturdy tweed sheath. If design is important to you (and I won’t throw stones at you on this subject, far from it!), these are cables worth looking at in every sense of the word.
However, it should be noted that the connectors are indeed gold-plated, but molded, which makes repair complicated unless you change the connector.
This is not really a problem, as Fender Deluxe jack cables are very sturdy, but it’s something to keep in mind when purchasing.
► See the price of Fender Deluxe cables (I usually put the “Natural Tweed” version, but they also exist in “Black Tweed”):
- Length 1.5 meters: Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
- Length 1.5 meters (angled): Woodbrass
- Length 3 meters: Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
- Length 3 meters (angled): Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
- Length 4.5 meters: Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
- Length 4.5 meters (angled): Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
- Length 5.5 meters: Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
- Length 5.5 meters (angled): Thomann Woodbrass
- Length 7.5 meters: Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
- Length 7.5 meters (angled): Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
4. Klotz KIK Pro Instrument
Brand: Klotz
Main application: instruments (TS cable)
Cable section: not specified
Outer diameter: 6.1 mm
Another interesting option: cables from the Klotz brand, such as the KIK Pro Instrument series.
Made in Germany, which is often a selling point (at least in terms of durability), these cables are really of good quality: they are sturdy, very flexible, and transmit sound without any issues.
The shielding is very good and spiral, with double insulation, which enhances the performance of this cable against potential electromagnetic interference.
However, it should be noted that the connectors are molded, which means they will not be repairable (but like Fender cables, especially if you are in a studio context, the lifespan of the cable is still quite appreciable).
► See the price of Klotz KIK Pro Instrument cables:
- Length 1.5 meters: Woodbrass
- Length 1.5 meters (angled): Woodbrass
- Length 3 meters: Woodbrass Amazon
- Length 3 meters (angled): Woodbrass
- Length 4.5 meters: Woodbrass
- Length 4.5 meters (angled): Woodbrass
- Length 6 meters: Woodbrass
- Length 6 meters (angled): Woodbrass
- Length 9 meters: Woodbrass
5. Sommer Cable The Spirit XXL
Brand: Sommer Cable
Main application: instruments (TS cable)
Cable section: 0.75 mm²
Outer diameter: 6.1 mm
Among all the jack cable brands, Sommer Cable is truly my favorite brand.
A large part of my studio is wired with their cables, which are of high quality with a very reasonable price-to-performance ratio.
Equipped with double shielding with a copper braid and conductive carbon, this cable should not, under standard usage conditions, pick up electromagnetic interference.
Regarding the connectors, depending on the versions of the cable, you will alternately find HiCon connectors (which I did not mention above but are part of the classic connector brands) and Neutrik connectors (notably available in Silent version, which minimize crackling when you plug in the cable).
A very good choice if you want a high-quality jack cable, somewhat “high-end”, without unnecessarily spending a fortune.
► See the price of Sommer Cable The Spirit XXL cables:
- Length 3 meters: Thomann Amazon
- Length 3 meters (angled): Thomann Amazon
- Length 4.5 meters: Thomann
- Length 6 meters: Thomann Amazon
- Length 6 meters (angled): Thomann Amazon
6. Designacable Van Damme XKE
Brand: Designacable
Main application: instruments (TS cable)
Cable section: 7 x 0.20 mm, 0.22 mm²
Outer diameter: 6.0 mm ± 0.15 mm
Another option that is somewhat less known and especially a bit harder to find: handmade cables by Designacable in the UK.
In particular, some models are made with cable from the Van Damme brand, a very high-quality bulk cable manufacturer. I myself regularly use one of their jack cables (the white one you can see in some of my videos) for my guitars and bass.
Very flexible, the Designacable Van Damme XKE are perfectly suited for both live and studio use.
It should be noted that especially on Amazon, it is sometimes possible to see Designacable Van Damme cables that are not labeled “XKE”. But that’s not a problem: they are also very good cables.
► See the price of Designacable Van Damme cables:
My selection of the best TRS jack cables (for hardware or stereo equipment…)
If you are looking for TRS jack cables to connect studio hardware devices (equalizers, compressors…) or to connect stereo equipment together, then you will need to look for other cables.
You will recognize the brands, but technically they are different cable models: so be careful not to get it wrong 🙂
1. Cordial CFM
Brand: Cordial
Main application: hardware (TRS cable)
Cable section: 2 x 0.20 mm²
Outer diameter: 6.3 mm
First option: the cables from Cordial, which are rather an entry-level option but still very high quality.
In other words, it’s not a particularly impressive cable, but it will get the job done without any issues — especially thanks to its spiral-wound copper shielding.
Positive point: you will also find Rean connectors on the Cordial CFM jack cables that I had already mentioned, as well as gold-plated contacts.
► See the price of Cordial CFM cables:
- Length 1.5 meters: Thomann Woodbrass
- Length 3 meters: Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
- Length 6 meters: Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
2. Klotz Pro Audio Leads PP1
Brand: Klotz
Main application: hardware (TRS cable)
Cable section: 2 x 0.22 mm²
Outer diameter: 6.3 mm
Once again, among my recommendations is the Klotz brand, which can mainly be found at Woodbrass as I write these lines.
Made with the MY206 microphone cable (which is normal: microphone cables are perfectly suited for use with balanced TRS cables), the Pro Audio Leads PP1 are very well shielded thanks to a very dense braid.
A good choice if you want something quality but not too expensive.
► See the price of Klotz Pro Audio Leads PP1 cables:
3. Sommer Cable Club Series
Brand: Sommer Cable
Main application: hardware (TRS cable)
Cable section: 2 x 0.34 mm²
Outer diameter: 6.3 mm
At Sommer Cable, you also find different options, but it is difficult to find the right sizes. Often the cables are too long or too short.
Avoid the “Basic” series, and rather choose items from the Club series (I actually used this type of cable to wire a good part of my studio, but by making them myself).
► See the price of Sommer Cable Club Series cables:
4. Designacable Van Damme
Brand: Designacable
Main application: hardware (TRS cable)
Cable section: 2 x 0.22 mm²
Outer diameter: 6.35 ± 0.15 mm
One thing is for sure: rather than recommending 1000 brands in this article, which would confuse you and thus not help you, I chose to limit my selection to a specific group of brands that I have no issues recommending.
Also, you will find Designacable again… and I think that’s great: believe it or not, after reading this article, you will be a specialist in cable brands :)!
Joking aside, you will again find a number of Designacable cables on Amazon, always made with Van Damme cable, which is of very good quality.
Just make sure that they are TRS connectors, as the titles on the product pages are not always clear.
► See the price of Designacable Van Damme cables:
The best patch cables
Well yes! It’s nice to plug guitars or basses into amplifiers, but what cable to use to connect effect pedals (or some synthesizers) together?
Well, I’m not going to go into detail about the different brands: I think you already have pretty much all the information to make your choice.
But to keep it simple:
Of course, to connect effect pedals together, you need very short cables, but of good quality.
Good quality, because believe it or not, there are often twists that can appear on pedalboards. And then we change the order of the pedals… it’s not necessarily a static setup, even less so if you take your pedals to concerts.
The result: if you take entry-level cables, you can be sure that one of them will fail you at the worst possible moment.
► Here are some quality suggestions for your patch cables:
And for male-male 3.5mm jacks?
It must be said: in the world of studios and live performances, 6.35mm jack cables are often used, simply because they are more robust connectors that can easily handle successive plug/unplug operations.
That said, in some cases, you may need male-male 3.5mm jack cables.
For example, to serve as patch cables for modular synthesizers.
There, you will find all sorts of qualities, but I find that Hosa offers a good price/quality ratio: sure, they have molded connectors, so they are impossible to repair, but from my experience (I use them for my synths and cassette devices) they are quite durable:
► See the price of Hosa 3.5mm cables on Thomann
Then, if you happen to read this article and are looking for cables more oriented towards “multimedia”, to connect, for example, certain phones or everyday devices, I also have a rather positive opinion on the cables from Ugreen, which I use from time to time.
► See the price of Ugreen 3.5mm cables on Amazon
What if you made your own cables?
If you have read the entire article above, you have seen that at different times I mentioned that I made my own cables, mainly using Neutrik connectors and Sommer Cable.
If you only need a guitar or bass jack every 4 or 5 years, don’t stress about it.
But if you regularly need cables, it can be much more financially interesting to make them yourself.
If you’re interested, please let me know in the comments, and I will update the article (maybe with a video?) to explain everything to you :)!
In conclusion
There you go, I think you know everything about jack cables for instruments now!
Feel free to leave me a comment if you have any questions or to tell me which cable(s) you are going to use.
► And then, to go further, check out my complete home studio equipment guide.