McIntosh Balanced Audio Cables

High-performance balanced XLR cables with 22 AWG oxygen-free copper conductors, extensive shielding, and separate signal and chassis grounds

Note: These cables are sold as singles, not pairs. Why? Because you might need just one for a center-channel amplifier or a subwoofer with a balanced XLR input, and now you don't have to contact us to order a "half pair".

Designed to preserve the ultra-low noise performance of McIntosh amplifiers, preamplifiers, and source components, McIntosh Balanced Audio Cables combine high-purity oxygen-free copper (OFC) conductors with extensive shielding and gold-plated XLR connectors. Their balanced construction helps reject noise and interference, making them an excellent choice for high-performance two-channel audio and home theater systems.

Each cable uses a twisted pair of 22 AWG oxygen-free copper conductors with a separate signal ground and an additional chassis ground connection. Low-density polyethylene insulation surrounds the conductors, while copper foil shielding and a 95% coverage copper braid provide protection against electromagnetic interference. A durable PVC jacket and black nylon mesh covering complete the construction, providing both mechanical protection and a clean appearance.

Separate Signal and Chassis Grounds

One of the distinguishing features of McIntosh Balanced Audio Cables is their use of separate signal and chassis grounds. In addition to the two balanced signal conductors, McIntosh incorporates a separate signal ground and a fourth chassis ground connection to help prevent interference from reaching sensitive audio circuitry.

Balanced connections carry the audio signal on two conductors with opposite polarities. At the receiving component, a differential input amplifies the difference between these signals while rejecting noise common to both. This arrangement is particularly useful in systems with multiple components, long cable runs, or nearby power cables and other potential sources of electrical interference.

By combining this balanced signal arrangement with separate grounding and extensive shielding, McIntosh Balanced Audio Cables are designed to maintain the low noise floor and signal integrity of the connected equipment.

Gold-Plated XLR Connections

McIntosh Balanced Audio Cables are terminated with gold-plated solid brass XLR connectors for secure, corrosion-resistant connections to compatible audio components. The connectors provide a robust mechanical interface, while the cable's shielded construction helps protect the signal along its entire length.

These cables are ideal for connecting a McIntosh preamplifier to a power amplifier, or a balanced source component such as a CD player or DAC to a preamplifier. They can also be used with compatible monoblock amplifiers, powered subwoofers, and other audio equipment equipped with standard balanced XLR connections.

Built for Long-Term Performance

The cables' copper foil and braided shielding are enclosed in a protective PVC jacket with black nylon webbing, providing durability and flexibility for installations behind equipment racks. Their 9 mm outside diameter offers substantial construction without making the cables unnecessarily bulky.

Standard lengths are 1 meter and 2 meters, with custom lengths available in 1-meter increments. Each cable comes packaged in a cloth bag and box and is backed by McIntosh's limited lifetime warranty.

Features

• 22 AWG high-purity oxygen-free copper conductors
• Balanced twisted-pair conductor configuration
• Separate signal ground and chassis ground connections
• Fourth chassis ground connection for additional interference protection
• Low-density polyethylene insulation
• Copper foil shielding with 95% coverage copper braid
• Gold-plated solid brass XLR connectors
• PVC outer jacket with black nylon mesh covering
• Designed to preserve the ultra-low noise performance of McIntosh components
• Suitable for stereo, monoblock, and multichannel audio systems
• Standard 1-meter and 2-meter lengths, with custom lengths available
• Limited lifetime warranty

Included Accessories

• McIntosh Balanced Audio Cable (single cable)
• Protective cloth bag
• Packaging box

Specifications

Conductor Material: Oxygen-free copper (OFC)

Conductor Gauge: 22 AWG

Conductor Configuration: Twisted pair with separate signal ground and chassis ground

Insulation: Low-density polyethylene

Shielding: Copper foil and 95% coverage copper braid

Outer Jacket: PVC with black nylon webbing

Termination: Gold-plated solid brass XLR connectors

Grounding: Separate signal ground and chassis ground

Available Lengths: 1 m and 2 m standard; custom lengths available in 1 m increments

Packaging: Single cable, supplied in cloth bag and box

Warranty: Limited lifetime

Outside Cable Diameter: 0.354 in. (9 mm)