NAD is a brand that specializes in high-fidelity audio equipment and electronics.

The NAD 114 is a stereo preamplifier designed for audio enthusiasts.


When it comes to setting up audio equipment in your home, the type of cables you use can be just as critical as the hardware itself. One common question for DIY enthusiasts is whether it’s better to run a long RCA cable from the source to an amp located next to the speakers or use a long speaker cable from the amp to the speakers.

## Signal Susceptibility and Interference

There's a general consensus that speaker wire signals are less susceptible to interference compared to RCA cables. This can be especially significant if you are running the cables behind walls where they might be exposed to electromagnetic noise from other electrical lines.

## Gauge and Material Matters

When opting for long runs of speaker cables, it's crucial to choose a suitable gauge and material. Oxygen-free copper is often recommended over aluminum-clad copper for better signal quality. The thickness (gauge) of the wire can also play a role; a thicker wire may be more effective for longer runs, reducing signal loss and potential degradation of audio quality.

## The Balanced Option

Some argue that using balanced cables like XLR instead of RCA is the "correct" way to tackle this problem. However, it's important to note that balanced connections require compatible outputs on the device, something not common on consumer-level devices. Even though balanced cables offer significant advantages in minimizing interference and delivering a clearer signal over longer distances, they might not be applicable to all setups.

## Alternatives and DIY Solutions

For those who love tinkering, DIY solutions such as using baluns for long cable runs have been reported to be effective. These can run over distances as long as 300 ft with minimal signal drop-off and noise reduction. Ethernet to RCA boxes using audio-grade transformers have also been used successfully. However, the performance of such DIY solutions in an audiophile system might vary and warrant careful consideration.

## Audio Roll-offs and Industry Insights

Some professionals in the broadcast sector have noted that long runs of RCA cables could lead to high-frequency roll-offs, affecting the sound quality. On the other hand, they've successfully run speaker cables for approximately 100 feet without any discernible degradation in sound quality.

## The Bottom Line

If you're dealing with a domestic setup, and you don't have the option for balanced outputs, the safe bet is to go with a long run of good-quality speaker wire. This approach seems to be the best compromise between maintaining sound quality and minimizing interference, especially if the amp is placed close to the source. If the Wife Approval Factor is crucial, this method also allows for a more discreet setup. However, if your system allows for balanced connections and you're after the pinnacle of audio fidelity, XLR cables would be the recommended path.

raw high-fidelity speaker cable without any connectors. The cable should display a detailed braided sheath

raw high-fidelity speaker cable.png

RCA vs Speaker Cables: The Best Choice for Long Runs in Home Audio

Choosing the right cable can be a game-changer for your home audio setup. Explore the debate between RCA and speaker cables for long distances.


This May, Apertura Audio takes center stage at the Munich High End Show with the unveiling of their latest masterpiece, the Enigma mkII loudspeaker. Celebrating 40 years of acoustic innovation, Apertura Audio introduces this model as the epitome of their commitment to exceptional sound and sophisticated design.

The Enigma mkII stands out for its elegant proportions and a heavily braced, asymmetrical cabinet that enhances audio fidelity. This innovative design integrates sophisticated damping, expertly selected and matched drivers, and a unique crossover topology. Such detailed craftsmanship ensures that the Enigma mkII delivers precise dimensions, explicit rhythms, and dynamic expressions, inviting listeners to delve deeper into the nuances of musical performances.

**Technical Mastery and Artistic Design**

The Enigma mkII is equipped with dual 22 cm mid-woofers developed by SEAS in Norway and modified extensively at Apertura's facility to enhance motor function and mechanical damping. The highlight is its professional-grade 15x145 mm ribbon tweeter—one of the largest available—ensuring expansive sound delivery with exceptional clarity.

Its advanced crossover system is divided into two independent circuit boards for low-pass and high-pass sections, using high-end audio components from Jantzen, Denmark. The speaker also features Apertura's proprietary "DRIM" structure with triple attenuation slopes, optimizing sound across various frequencies.

The design cleverly merges a bass-reflex system with an acoustic line, incorporating a vent tube located beneath the speaker. This complex load allows for a detailed and rich bass response, complemented by the speaker's unique shape that includes two curved sides of different lengths and non-parallel front and back panels.

**Join Apertura Audio in Munich**

Apertura Audio invites all audiophiles and music lovers to experience the Enigma mkII first-hand at the Munich High End Show, Room F204 - A4.2. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience this outstanding speaker in a new and popular finish: American Walnut high gloss, adding to its visual appeal.

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Apertura Audio Showcases Enigma mkII at Munich High End Show 2024

Apertura Audio

Apertura Audio introduces the Enigma mkII at Munich High End Show 2024, an epitome of high-fidelity sound with a stylish American Walnut high gloss finish


In the nuanced world of vinyl playback, phono preamplifiers play a pivotal role. These devices, often simply referred to as phono preamps, are tasked with amplifying the faint signal from a turntable to a level that's usable for a standard amplifier or audio receiver. A question that often arises among audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts is about the power management of these preamps: Why do many lack a power button, and is it reasonable to turn them on and off?

### The Case for Omission of Power Buttons

Phono preamps typically forgo the inclusion of a power switch for several reasons:

1.  **Continuous Operation**: A common belief in audiophile circles is that audio equipment performs best when it reaches and maintains a stable operating temperature, a state known as thermal equilibrium. This concept suggests that a preamp, constantly powered on, is always primed for optimal performance.
    
2.  **Simplicity in Design**: In high-end audio, the purity of the signal path is paramount. Each additional component in the circuit, including a power switch, is seen as a potential point of signal degradation. By eliminating the switch, the signal path remains as direct and unadulterated as possible.
    
3.  **Automatic Integration**: Some phono preamps are designed to power up automatically upon detecting a signal from the turntable or to be controlled by another component in the audio setup. This seamless integration renders a separate power switch unnecessary.
    

### Power Consumption: A Key Consideration

A notable aspect of phono preamps is their low power consumption. Most models use only a few watts, making them some of the least power-hungry components in an audio setup. This minimal usage often raises the question: is it even worth turning them off?

### The Debate: To Power Off or Not

The decision to power down a phono preamp is influenced by several factors:

-   **Longevity and Performance**: Consistent power to the preamp is argued to prolong its life and maintain sound quality. However, the impact of frequent power cycling on modern electronics is often minimal.
    
-   **Electrical Interference**: In some cases, powering on a phono preamp can cause electrical disturbances, as evidenced by noise or other issues in connected equipment. This might advocate for turning off the preamp when not in use.
    
-   **Energy Conservation**: While the energy savings from powering off a low-consumption device like a phono preamp are modest, every bit counts for those keen on minimizing their electrical footprint.
    

### A Personal Choice

In conclusion, the decision to leave a phono preamp powered on or to turn it off hinges on personal preferences, usage patterns, and specific equipment characteristics. With their low power consumption, the impact on your electricity bill or the environment is minimal, but for those prioritizing energy efficiency or concerned about the long-term health of their audio equipment, powering off is a viable option. As with many aspects of high-fidelity audio, the choice often comes down to a blend of practical considerations and personal philosophy.

a classic vinyl record with a subtle theme of power

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The Surprising Truth Why Your Phono Preamp Has No Power Button!

Ever wondered why your phono preamp doesn't have a power button? Uncover the surprising reasons and audio secrets now!

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by NAD

Interesting articles

RCA vs Speaker Cables: The Best Choice for Long Runs in Home Audio

Apertura Audio Showcases Enigma mkII at Munich High End Show 2024

The Surprising Truth Why Your Phono Preamp Has No Power Button!