High End HiFi cables

High-end and hi-fi systems are a combination of high-precision and intricately made devices. Perfectly attuned to each other, they allow music to be played back in outstanding quality. To ensure that all components can function flawlessly, they need to be kept free of interference to the greatest extent possible, just like high precision measuring equipment does. The same also applies for the connection cables. Interference is caused in a number of different ways. Along with typical electromagnetic interference, which can, for example, be minimised by using good shielding, mechanical vibrations and shocks also have an impact on the playback quality. Added to this are the effects of capacitive coupling between conductors and floors, which affect loudspeakers cables in particular. The conductors form unwanted capacitance, not just in interplay with each other, but also with other surfaces in the immediate surroundings. A good way to counteract this is by increasing the distance to the surfaces. As a rule, a few centimetres suffice. Vibrations are caused in different ways and they can be transmitted by structure-borne and air-borne noise. Structure-borne noise refers to vibrations that are exhibited by a body, such as the housing of a device. An example of this is the loudspeaker box. The membranes of the speakers are stimulated, making them vibrate. However, as the membranes feature a mechanical connection with the loudspeaker housing, they also transfer vibrations to the housing. The vibrations will be stronger or weaker according to the housing weight and the insulation. The vibrations are also transferred to the surface on which the loudspeakers are placed, this being the floor. Two things now occur. On the one hand, the floor emits some of the structure-borne energy as airborne sound (resulting in the typical droning noise), while on the other hand, the structure-borne noise is transferred, for example, to the cable placed on the floor. More about the effects of this later on. Airborne sound refers to vibrations that are transferred through the air and that are audible for humans (with the exception of infrasound and ultrasound). The primary purpose of a hi-fi system is to produce sound. However, airborne noise not only stimulates the eardrum, but also acts on all other surfaces it reaches. This causes the walls, floors and other surfaces, and ultimately the hi-fi components and cables, to vibrate as well. The combination of airborne and structure-borne noise not only causes glasses in a display case to vibrate mechanically, but all components, including the cable used for a hi-fi signal chain, as well. Experiments have shown that the sound from the components and from the cables is impaired by the vibrations. One reason for this is, for example, the capacity values of components in relation to each other, which constantly change due to the vibrations. In order to minimise these so-called microphonic effects, the components must be isolated from the surface on which they are placed. This can be done by using the Reference High Tech Gel Absorber, for example, for appliances and loudspeakers. Their core contains a special gel, which physically converts the vibrations into heat. The Reference Cable Bases have been developed specifically for cables. Their base also contains a special gel, along with natural rubber strips, in which the cables can float freely. Along with absorbing the vibrations, the Reference Cable Bases also keep the cables at a distance to the floor. This reduces unwanted capacitances and reduces the effects on the electronics.

High-end and hi-fi systems are a combination of high-precision and filigree devices. Perfectly coordinated, they are capable of reproducing music in outstanding quality. However, in order for the components to work perfectly, they must be kept as free from interference as possible, just like high-precision measuring instruments. The same applies to the connection cables. However, interference can occur in many different ways. In addition to the typical electromagnetic interference, which can be minimized by good shielding, for example, mechanical vibrations and shocks also affect playback quality. The Referenz cable bases have been specially developed for cables. They also have a special gel incorporated in their base and additional natural rubber bands to accommodate the freely suspended cables. As well as absorbing vibrations, the Referenz cable bases also keep the cable at a distance from the floor, reducing unwanted capacitance and the impact on the electronics.

Cable capacitance plays a decisive role, especially for audio cable connections between individual devices. As the signal sources are very weak and react sensitively to high cable capacitance, audio cables are virtually predestined for air insulation using air helix technology. In addition to this, we have also developed a completely new and entirely solder-free RCA connector for the Referenz NF-1205 Air. It consists of several component parts that are only joined together during the course of the assembly process. As with the loudspeaker cable, the thin layer of enamel is first removed from the high-purity copper wires of the "Cross Link Super Speed" waveguide by machine. Then, the contact pin of the connector, which is made of tellurium copper, is pressure-grouted with the conductor using a force of 1.5 tonnes. The connection of the shielding is also completely new: It is now hermetically sealed with screws. Click here and discover the exciting details

Cable capacitance plays a decisive role, especially for audio cable connections between individual devices. As the signal sources are very weak and react sensitively to high cable capacitance, audio cables are virtually predestined for air insulation using air helix technology. New XLR 180° plug: It is only possible to insert XLR connectors in one direction. This can be annoying as the position of the XLR sockets in devices varies. In order for the cable to fit, it must sometimes be twisted by force. This puts a strain on cables, plugs and device sockets and sometimes simply looks a mess. The newly developed XLR 180° plugs can each be rotated by +/- 45 degrees, i.e. +/- 90 degrees in total. The finishing touch for perfect cabling. Click here and discover the exciting details

Breathtaking sound thanks to air insulation - we have already created many innovative designs on the way to perfect insulation, such as DUO-PE insulation or PETS (PE Tube Support). The Referenz NF-2405 cable is another true milestone and an absolute world first in the cable sector. Normally, the conductors are kept at a distance from each other by more or less high-quality filling and insulation materials. With the NF-2405, however, the conductors run through a series of clips connected in series, which form the inner framework and give the NF-2405 exceptional flexibility for high-end cables. The NF-2405 is manufactured entirely in Germany, like all speaker and audio cables in the Referenz series. The clips are assembled by hand with meticulous care in the company's own factory and then the Cross Link super-speed waveguide is threaded in. After this, the resulting air helix is also shielded by hand and given a PE network jacket before the finished cable is assembled using the RCA plugs we developed ourselves. New RCA SL connector: Soldering is a reliable and well-established joining technique, but it has its drawbacks. Disadvantages include the presence of poorly conducting solder in the signal path and the emergence of low thermoelectric emfs. With the SL RCA Plug developed in-house, the connections from the signal conductor to the contact elements are precisely pressure-grouted together using a force of 1.5 tonnes. A further seemingly tiny improvement that brings great rewards in terms of audio performance. Click here and discover the exciting details

Breathtaking sound thanks to air insulation - we have already created many innovative designs on the way to perfect insulation, such as DUO-PE insulation or PETS (PE Tube Support). The Referenz NF-2405 cable is another true milestone and an absolute world first in the cable sector. Normally, the conductors are kept at a distance from each other by more or less high-quality filling and insulation materials. With the NF-2405, however, the conductors run through a series of clips connected in series, which form the inner framework and give the NF-2405 exceptional flexibility for high-end cables. The NF-2405 is manufactured entirely in Germany, like all speaker and audio cables in the Referenz series. The clips are assembled by hand with meticulous care in the company's own factory and then the Cross Link super-speed waveguide is threaded in. The resulting Air Helix is then also shielded by hand and fitted with a PE network jacket before the finished cable is assembled with the XLR 180° connectors developed in-house. New XLR 180° plug: It is only possible to insert XLR connectors in one direction. This can be annoying as the position of the XLR sockets in devices varies. In order for the cable to fit, it must sometimes be twisted by force. This puts a strain on cables, plugs and device sockets and sometimes simply looks a mess. The new XLR 180° plugs developed in-house can be rotated by +/- 45 degrees, i.e., up to a total of +/- 90 degrees from connector to connector. The finishing touch for perfect cabling. Click here and discover the exciting details

Good sound needs space! In developing our Air technology, we have proven that an audio cable’s insulation plays a decisive role and has a significant influence on the sound. This is due to dielectric losses and the electrostatic properties of the insulating materials, which burden the hi-fi system like heavy luggage and make it sluggish. By “omitting” this strain we then help the entire hi-fi chain to achieve top performance. We do this with special clips that guide the signal conductors through the cable in a row and freely suspended. A cable’s geometry also influences these factors. Bigger distances mean less load. This is exactly where our NF-4005 AIR comes in: The AIR helix design and the cable’s dimensions create even more space and air between the signal conductors. The cable thus forms a wide audiophile corridor and rolls out the red carpet, so to speak, for every sound detail. New RCA SL connectors (SolderLess): Soldering is a proven and established connection technology, but it is not without its weaknesses. These include the solder used in the signal path, which reduces the conductivity, and the generation of thermal voltages, even if it is kept to a minimum. With our recently developed SL (SolderLess) RCA connector, the connections from the signal conductor to the contact element are pressed with the highest precision and with a pressure of 1.5 tonnes. A further seemingly tiny improvement that brings great rewards in terms of audio performance. Click here and discover the exciting details

Good sound needs space! In developing our Air technology, we have proven that an audio cable’s insulation plays a decisive role and has a significant influence on the sound. This is due to dielectric losses and the electrostatic properties of the insulating materials, which burden the hi-fi system like heavy luggage and make it sluggish. By “omitting” this strain we then help the entire hi-fi chain to achieve top performance. We do this with special clips that guide the signal conductors through the cable in a row and freely suspended. A cable’s geometry also influences these factors. Bigger distances mean less load. This is exactly where our NF-4005 AIR comes in: The AIR helix design and the cable’s dimensions create even more space and air between the signal conductors. The cable thus forms a wide audiophile corridor and rolls out the red carpet, so to speak, for every sound detail. New XLR 180° plug: It is only possible to insert XLR connectors in one direction. This can be annoying as the position of the XLR sockets in devices varies. In order for the cable to fit, it must sometimes be twisted by force. This puts a strain on cables, plugs and device sockets and sometimes simply looks a mess. The new XLR 180° plugs developed in-house can be rotated by +/- 45 degrees, i.e., up to a total of +/- 90 degrees from connector to connector. The finishing touch for perfect cabling. Click here and discover the exciting details

Good sound needs space! In developing our Air technology, we have proven that an audio cable’s insulation plays a decisive role and has a significant influence on the sound. This is due to dielectric losses and the electrostatic properties of the insulating materials, which burden the hi-fi system like heavy luggage and make it sluggish. By “omitting” this strain we then help the entire hi-fi chain to achieve top performance. We do this with special clips that guide the signal conductors through the cable in a row and freely suspended. A cable’s geometry also influences these factors. Bigger distances mean less load. This is exactly where our NF-4005 AIR Pure Silver comes in: The AIR helix design and the cable’s dimensions create even more space and air between the signal conductors. The cable thus forms a wide audiophile corridor and rolls out the red carpet, so to speak, for every sound detail. To get closer to the pinnacle of audiophile perfection, we also carefully examined the conductor material. Copper in the right purity is itself already an excellent conductor, but a superconductor with no ohmic resistance to the current would be simply perfect. The material’s superconducting properties, however, require extremely low temperatures of at least -70 degrees. Under realistic conditions, silver is currently the most conductive material. With a conductivity of 61.35 S/m (siemens per meter), it outperforms copper by around six percent. Many manufacturers only use silver-plated conductors, which over time can seem, “bright”, “metallic” and even, “annoying”. We, on the other hand, use pure silver, which has a far more neutral sound. Due to the higher drift speed of the electrons, our pure silver cable delivers a more penetrating and sumptuous sound performance, across all frequency ranges. On the other hand of course, silver is about one hundred times more expensive than copper. New RCA SL connectors (SolderLess): Soldering is a proven and established connection technology, but it is not without its weaknesses. These include the solder used in the signal path, which reduces the conductivity, and the generation of thermal voltages, even if it is kept to a minimum. With our recently developed SL (SolderLess) RCA connector, the connections from the signal conductor to the contact element are pressed with the highest precision and with a pressure of 1.5 tonnes. A further seemingly tiny improvement that brings great rewards in terms of audio performance. Click here and discover the exciting details

Good sound needs space! In developing our Air technology, we have proven that an audio cable’s insulation plays a decisive role and has a significant influence on the sound. This is due to dielectric losses and the electrostatic properties of the insulating materials, which burden the hi-fi system like heavy luggage and make it sluggish. By “omitting” this strain we then help the entire hi-fi chain to achieve top performance. We do this with special clips that guide the signal conductors through the cable in a row and freely suspended. A cable’s geometry also influences these factors. Bigger distances mean less load. This is exactly where our NF-4005 AIR Pure Silver comes in: The AIR helix design and the cable’s dimensions create even more space and air between the signal conductors. The cable thus forms a wide audiophile corridor and rolls out the red carpet, so to speak, for every sound detail. To get closer to the pinnacle of audiophile perfection, we also carefully examined the conductor material. Copper in the right purity is itself already an excellent conductor, but a superconductor with no ohmic resistance to the current would be simply perfect. The material’s superconducting properties, however, require extremely low temperatures of at least -70 degrees. Under realistic conditions, silver is currently the most conductive material. With a conductivity of 61.35 S/m (siemens per meter), it outperforms copper by around six percent. Many manufacturers only use silver-plated conductors, which over time can seem, “bright”, “metallic” and even, “annoying”. We, on the other hand, use pure silver, which has a far more neutral sound. Due to the higher drift speed of the electrons, our pure silver cable delivers a more penetrating and sumptuous sound performance, across all frequency ranges. On the other hand of course, silver is about one hundred times more expensive than copper. New XLR 180° plug: It is only possible to insert XLR connectors in one direction. This can be annoying as the position of the XLR sockets in devices varies. In order for the cable to fit, it must sometimes be twisted by force. This puts a strain on cables, plugs and device sockets and sometimes simply looks a mess. The new XLR 180° plugs developed in-house can be rotated by +/- 45 degrees, i.e., up to a total of +/- 90 degrees from connector to connector. The finishing touch for perfect cabling. Click here and discover the exciting details

Cable capacitance plays a decisive role, especially for audio cable connections between individual devices. As the signal sources are very weak and react sensitively to high cable capacitance, audio cables are virtually predestined for air insulation using air helix technology. Adding another highlight to this perfect audiophile foundation, we then focused on the conductor material of the cables. Copper in the appropriate purity is already a very good conductor. A superconductor, where electrical resistance is zero, would be perfect, of course. Unfortunately, superconducting materials require temperatures of at least -70 degrees. Under realistic operating conditions, the best conducting material we have is currently silver. At 61.35 S/m (Siemens pro Meter), its conductivity is approximately six percent superior to that of copper. However, this precious metal is about 100 times more expensive. New XLR 180° plug: It is only possible to insert XLR connectors in one direction. This can be annoying as the position of the XLR sockets in devices varies. In order for the cable to fit, it must sometimes be twisted by force. This puts a strain on cables, plugs and device sockets and sometimes simply looks a mess. The newly developed XLR 180° plugs can each be rotated by +/- 45 degrees, i.e. +/- 90 degrees in total. The finishing touch for perfect cabling. Click here and discover the exciting details

Our AIR cables have already caused something of a sensation in the world of high-end connections: “The best cable ever connected here between amp and speakers!” (AUDIO 02-2020| LS-2404 AIR PURE SILVER). With the NF-2405 AIR Pure Silver, the analog member of the AIR family is now also available as a pure silver cable. AIR technology is a milestone in our more than 46-year company history and is causing a sensation in the hi-fi industry worldwide. The approach itself sounds relatively banal: The physically induced losses must be minimized in order to transmit the original music signal as authentically and neutrally as possible. And, thanks to the AIR technology, loss-free transmission is closer than ever before. It leads to significantly better sound reproduction, which is not only subjectively audible but also objectively measurable. The insulation (or dielectric) of the AIR cables is practically perfect thanks to the air insulation, and hardly affects the sound at all. The structure, dimensions and arrangement of the conductors are optimized, and approach the limits of what is physically possible. Adding another highlight to this perfect audiophile foundation, we then focused on the conductor material of the cables. Copper in the appropriate purity is already a very good conductor. A superconductor, where electrical resistance is zero, would be perfect, of course. Unfortunately, superconducting materials require temperatures of at least -70 degrees. Under realistic operating conditions, the best conducting material we have is currently silver. At 61.35 S/m (Siemens pro Meter), its conductivity is approximately six percent superior to that of copper. However, this precious metal is about 100 times more expensive. New RCA SL connector: Soldering is a reliable and well-established joining technique, but it has its drawbacks. Disadvantages include the presence of poorly conducting solder in the signal path and the emergence of low thermoelectric emfs. With the SL RCA Plug developed in-house, the connections from the signal conductor to the contact elements are precisely pressure-grouted together using a force of 1.5 tonnes. A further seemingly tiny improvement that brings great rewards in terms of audio performance. Click here and discover the exciting details

Our AIR cables have already caused something of a sensation in the world of high-end connections: “The best cable ever connected here between amp and speakers!” (AUDIO 02-2020| LS-2404 AIR PURE SILVER). With the NF-2405 AIR Pure Silver, the analog member of the AIR family is now also available as a pure silver cable. AIR technology is a milestone in our more than 46-year company history and is causing a sensation in the hi-fi industry worldwide. The approach itself sounds relatively banal: The physically induced losses must be minimized in order to transmit the original music signal as authentically and neutrally as possible. And, thanks to the AIR technology, loss-free transmission is closer than ever before. It leads to significantly better sound reproduction, which is not only subjectively audible but also objectively measurable. The insulation (or dielectric) of the AIR cables is practically perfect thanks to the air insulation, and hardly affects the sound at all. The structure, dimensions and arrangement of the conductors are optimized, and approach the limits of what is physically possible. Adding another highlight to this perfect audiophile foundation, we then focused on the conductor material of the cables. Copper in the appropriate purity is already a very good conductor. A superconductor, where electrical resistance is zero, would be perfect, of course. Unfortunately, superconducting materials require temperatures of at least -70 degrees. Under realistic operating conditions, the best conducting material we have is currently silver. At 61.35 S/m (Siemens pro Meter), its conductivity is approximately six percent superior to that of copper. However, this precious metal is about 100 times more expensive. New XLR 180° plug: It is only possible to insert XLR connectors in one direction. This can be annoying as the position of the XLR sockets in devices varies. In order for the cable to fit, it must sometimes be twisted by force. This puts a strain on cables, plugs and device sockets and sometimes simply looks a mess. The new XLR 180° plugs developed in-house can be rotated by +/- 45 degrees, i.e., up to a total of +/- 90 degrees from connector to connector. The finishing touch for perfect cabling. Click here and discover the exciting details

Because the outputs on hi-fi devices only supply extremely weak signals and are sensitive to high cable capacitance, the capacitance of a cable plays a significant role when connecting components together. A “low-pass filter” can be created that cuts off high frequencies and also causes phase shifts. This is the reason why RCA and XLR audio cables are ideal companions for the air-based insulation used in the MICRO AIR technology. Another special feature of the NF-204 Micro AIR is its symmetrical architecture, which guarantees high immunity to EMC radiation. Alone or in combination with the LS-204/LS-204-XL, the NF-204 Micro AIR opens up the connection floodgates and allows your components to perform at their very best. Click here and discover the exciting details

Because the outputs on hi-fi devices only supply extremely weak signals and are sensitive to high cable capacitance, the capacitance of a cable plays a significant role when connecting components together. A “low-pass filter” can be created that cuts off high frequencies and also causes phase shifts. This is the reason why RCA and XLR audio cables are ideal companions for the air-based insulation used in the MICRO AIR technology. Another special feature of the NF-204 Micro AIR is its symmetrical architecture, which guarantees high immunity to EMC radiation. In addition to this, we have also developed a completely new and entirely solder-free RCA connector for the Micro AIR series. It consists of several component parts that are only joined together during course of the assembly process. The cable ends are prepared in our cable manufacturing unit, with meticulous care and a passionate attention to detail. They are then inserted into contact pins made of tellurium copper and pressure-grouted using a force of 1.5 tonnes. Alone or in combination with the LS-204/LS-204-XL, the NF-204 Micro AIR opens up the connection floodgates and allows your components to perform at their very best. Click here and discover the exciting details

Compared to the NF-204 Micro AIR, the NF-104 Micro AIR has a conventional, coaxial architecture. In addition to the Micro AIR technology, another special feature of the NF-104 is the newly developed RCA connector, which is completely solder-free. Omitting the solder significantly reduces transition resistance and element formation. As the name suggests, the NF-104 harmonizes particularly well with the LS-104 speaker cable. Both cables are the perfect way of entering the world of Micro AIR technology. Click here and discover the exciting details

Precisely because audio signals are so sensitive, we have equipped our Referenz NF-202 audio cable with some extremely effective technologies: Optimum DUO-PE II insulation, air-filled PE tubes, an innovative GAP connector and, above all, extremely fine, solid conductors made of high-purity OFC copper guarantee uniform runtimes and crystal-clear signal transmission. The ground and signal conductors are the same size and arranged symmetrically. The PE network jacket prevents micro-vibrations. Audio; "The unobtrusive, transparent sound of this cable was extremely well received in the blind tests. Without exception, every listener described the cable as pleasant, powerful, quiet and stable in its reproduction; a superior audio cable."

The Connect 212 audio RCA provides a sonically neutral and technically clean connection for high-quality hi-fi applications. Its highly flexible construction and discreet design ensure easy integration into existing systems. The signal conductors are made of high-purity, oxygen-free copper (OFC) and insulated with foamed polyethylene – a material with an especially low dielectric constant that supports low-loss signal transmission. The symmetrical dual-mono design with separate conductors for positive and negative ensures stable and low-interference signal routing. A dense braid of 186 fine copper strands serves as effective shielding against external interference – such as from Wi-Fi or Bluetooth devices. The gold-plated full-metal connectors provide long-term reliable contact with low transition resistance and high mechanical stability. The Connect 212 is manufactured in Germany and each unit is individually tested for signal continuity. Click here to discover exciting details

The Connect 212 Audio XLR offers a sonically neutral and technically high-quality connection for demanding hi-fi and studio applications. Its highly flexible design and discreet appearance allow for easy integration into any setup. The signal conductors are made of highly pure, oxygen-free copper (OFC) and insulated with foamed polyethylene - a material with a particularly low dielectric constant that promotes low-loss signal transmission. The true balanced construction with separate conductors for hot, cold, and ground ensures stable, low-noise signal routing and enables effective suppression of hum interference and external noise sources. A dense copper braid made of 186 fine wires serves as effective shielding against external influences such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or power supplies. The gold-plated solid metal XLR connectors guarantee a permanently reliable contact with low contact resistance and high mechanical stability. The Connect 212 is made in Germany and individually tested for signal integrity - ensuring uncompromising quality and long-lasting listening pleasure. Click here to discover exciting details

The Exzellenz audio cable has two separately routed shields. This optimally protects the sensitive audio signals against external interference. The silver-plated conductor transports the analog music signal extremely precisely and enables a crystal-clear and dynamic sound even with high-resolution audio formats. The solid, 24k gold-plated full metal connectors ensure optimum contact and minimal contact resistance on a long-term basis.

The extremely elaborate, double-symmetrical design of the Exzellenz stereo audio cable, combined with the 3-fold shielding, provides optimum protection for the fragile audio signals and reduces external interference to a minimum. The silver-plated conductors transport the analog music signal precisely and enable a dynamic and crystal-clear sound, especially with high-resolution audio formats. The solid, 24k gold-plated contacts guarantee optimum contact and minimal contact resistance.

The Premium audio cable offers impressive sound quality thanks to its high copper content, ensuring powerful and dynamic sound. This cable has double shielding, providing effective protection against interference. The dual-mono design ensures optimum channel separation and improved electrical properties for outstanding audio transmission. In order to maintain the purity of the music signal transmission, we use oxygen-free copper (OFC). This material ensures a particularly high conductivity and minimizes any impurities in the conductor material that could impede the flow of current, so maximizing the conductivity and keeping the background noise to a minimum. In a world where mobile phone and WiFi networks are widespread, electromagnetic interference (EMC) can occur. Our double shielding helps to minimize this interference and ensure that the finest musical details are preserved. The Premium audio cable is consequently the ideal choice for discerning audio enthusiasts looking for unadulterated, high-quality audio transmission.

The high-quality audio cable boasts a high copper content, ensuring powerful sound. Thanks to the double shielding, the cable provides reliable protection against interference. The dual-mono design ensures optimum channel separation and improved electrical properties. EMC interference caused by mobile phone and WiFi networks is reduced by the double shielding, so preserving the fine details.

The Star audio cable reduces sound loss due to its dense shielding and thick inner conductor. The 24k gold-plated metal contacts maintain the quality of the connections.