Topped with a bundle of premium features and a unique exterior appearance, StarTech digital coaxial cable is great for wiring up your home audio system. If not for limited length options and the loose customer support, this digital coaxial cable would be better than a scoop of fried ice cream. Unfortunately, a lack of longer-length cables may inhibit you from wiring up bigger rooms, and for a premium cable you should be able to expect premium options.
Each cable features a protective grey jacket made of polyethylene, with the appropriate orange-colored banding that typically denotes a digital coaxial cable. If you have a lot of different cables and are afraid to get them mixed up, this cable is a good choice. Not all digital coaxial cables are banded with orange, but it is the traditional coloration. If you are setting up surround sound without in-wall cable installation, make sure the grey cable color will not stick out in your living room.
The functional part of the cable is comprised of three basic layers: the conductor, the dielectric and the shielding. All three elements play a crucial role in the overall performance of the cable. The conductor is made of copper, which is highly conductive and therefore ideal for carrying the signal. The dielectric spacer comes next, and it keeps the conductor from touching the shielding.
The shielding is comprised of two sub layers. The innermost layer is a dual-foil shielding that reflects radio waves. The outermost layer is made of finely braided copper, which absorbs and diverts stray electrical signals that could garble the signal and introduce unwanted noise.
The RCA connectors are compatible with most components in your home audio system. Though they lack a split center pin for enhanced contact pressure, they do feature a turbine-cut gripper that looks great. The male-to-male plugs are all gold plated to minimize corrosion and establish good electrical contact.
We like the variety of short to mid-length cables. They will be perfect for connecting your amp or receiver to your DVD player. Unfortunately, there are no cables between 15 and 25 feet. This could become problematic if extenuating circumstances require you to space apart your DVD player and receiver. Here is a list of cable length options from StarTech.
- 3.3 feet
- 6.6 feet
- 9.84 feet
- 13.1 feet
If you like the look of these cables and want to give them a go, measure out your room and make sure that you will not need a cable longer than 13 feet.
StarTech cables come with a lifetime warranty that covers manufacturing defects. This is especially important for a premium cable; should the cable have a problem, you can get it repaired or replaced without paying for a new one.
Unfortunately, the tech support for these digital coaxial cables is on the skimpy side. They provide no telephone contact information. If you have any questions or concerns, you will have to send them an email.
Digital audio cables are really pretty simple, but they play an important role in home audio. These digital coaxial cables are sturdy and attractive, and they will do their job well. If the lack of longer cables is not a problem for you, then the StarTech digital coaxial cable is a delicious taste of Tex-Mex style goodness.
