Audio cables for connecting TVs, soundbars, speakers, amplifiers, headphones and computers, for shoppers who need a replacement lead or a specific connector. The range has over 40 models, and the usual types are 3.5 mm jack, RCA and optical cables. Brands include VENTION, GEMBIRD, LIBOX and HAMA.
How to choose an audio cable
Connector type. Look at the sockets on both devices before anything else. Headphone-style outputs use a 3.5 mm jack, older hi-fi equipment and many TVs use red and white RCA sockets, and optical (Toslink) is a square digital socket often labelled Optical or SPDIF. Adapter-style cables, such as 3.5 mm to two RCA plugs, join the two worlds.
Analogue or digital. Analogue cables (3.5 mm and RCA) carry the sound as an electrical signal, so shielding matters and interference can show up as hum or hiss. An optical cable sends digital audio as light, so it is immune to electrical noise, but it cannot be used with devices that lack an optical output or input.
Length. Choose a length that reaches comfortably without tension on the plugs, with a little slack. Excess cable is better coiled neatly than stretched tight, and very long analogue runs are more prone to picking up interference than short ones.
Build quality. Check for shielding, a braided or flexible jacket and well-fitted metal connectors. These details help most when the cable is moved often, for example between a laptop and a speaker, or when it runs close to power cables.
Plug shape. A straight plug suits most set-ups. An angled plug can help when a TV sits close to the wall or when the socket is in a tight recess.
Audio cable brands we carry
- VENTION: a manufacturer of everyday connection accessories, including 3.5 mm audio, HDMI and USB cables, and the largest brand in this category in our range.
- GEMBIRD: a long-established maker of computer and multimedia cables, known for straightforward leads for desktop and home use.
- HAMA: a German accessories company with a long record in AV cables and adapters for TVs and hi-fi equipment.
- LINDY: a German supplier of AV and computer connectivity, with a reputation for cables used in professional installations.
- AXAGON: a Czech brand best known for USB adapters and PC accessories, including audio-related adapters.
- j5create: known for USB-C adapters, hubs and docking products for laptops.
- LANBERG: a Polish brand focused on network cabling and IT accessories.
Also in our range: LIBOX.
Audio cables: frequently asked questions
Which cable connects a TV to a soundbar?
An optical (Toslink) cable is the most common choice when both the TV and the soundbar have an optical socket. If they do not, a 3.5 mm to RCA or 3.5 mm to 3.5 mm analogue cable works with the headphone or line output. HDMI ARC is another option, but it uses an HDMI cable rather than an audio cable.
What is the difference between RCA and 3.5 mm cables?
RCA uses two separate plugs, usually red and white, for the right and left channels, while a 3.5 mm jack carries both channels in one small plug. Both are analogue and carry stereo sound. Which one you need depends only on the sockets on your devices.
Does a more expensive audio cable sound better?
Not necessarily. For short home runs, a cable with decent shielding and well-made connectors is enough, and a very costly cable will not change the sound in a noticeable way. Better construction matters mostly for durability and for reducing interference on longer or busier runs.
How long can an audio cable be?
Short and medium lengths of a few metres are fine for analogue connections in a typical home. Longer analogue runs can pick up interference, especially near mains cables. Optical cables handle longer distances well, though very long or tightly bent ones can weaken the signal.
