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Simple and effective upgrades for your hi-fi system Mini Usb Cable

Best audio cables Buying Guide: welcome to What Hi-Fi?'s round-up of the best audio cables you can buy in 2022.

The analogue information coursing between your source and amplifier is complicated – and there's an awful lot of it. So connect them wisely, because, like every component in your audio chain, your audio cables can make a significant difference to the sound your system ultimately delivers.

We've rounded up the best audio cables currently out there, catering for all budgets. So whether you're watching the pennies or splashing the cash, these RCA interconnects can make the most of your hi-fi's potential.

This is Chord displaying once again an understanding of what makes hi-fi great, with the best RCA cable we've heard at the budget end. It never loses sight of what matters; the musicality of your system and also helps enhance your system's detail levels, making for an entertaining and informative listen.

Read the full Chord Company C-Line review

Having spent time using the Clearway, we found it really quite unsatisfying to listen to the same songs with anything else of a similar price. The price tag might weigh heavy on many listeners’ wallets – and the cheaper C-Line remains a class leader we can still get behind – but for those who can justify the outlay, the Clearway is brilliantly capable of letting you hear where your money has gone.

Read the full Chord Company Clearway Analogue RCA review

There really isn't anything to dislike here: the Element Achromatic is one of the best audio cables for a first upgrade. The soundstage is pleasingly wide and precise, and music displays excellent dynamics. The bass is supple and midrange is transparent, and the best part about this cable is it's also unfussy about the kit you use.

Read the full Atlas Element Achromatic review

Despite its über-budget price tag, the Profile punches above its weight, helping to deliver a tight sound that’s uncluttered and airy. Detail levels are surprisingly good for the money too, and the well-made Profile also shows ability with its handling of dynamics.

Read the full QED Profile review

These QED audio cables promote a wide-open soundstage, both vertically and horizontally. They help vocals sound full-bodied and weighty, but with lots of breathing space above them, too. Put simply, if you covet space and detail with sure but nimble footwork and heaps of insight, consider your search for an RCA audio cable complete.

Read the full QED Performance Audio 40 review

Internet Cable Andy is Deputy Editor of What Hi-Fi? and a consumer electronics journalist with nearly 20 years of experience writing news, reviews and features. Over the years he's also contributed to a number of other outlets, including The Sunday Times, the BBC, Stuff, and BA High Life Magazine. Premium wireless earbuds are his passion but he's also keen on car tech and in-car audio systems and can often be found cruising the countryside testing the latest set-ups. In his spare time Andy is a keen golfer and gamer.<\/p>"}; /*! 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