A phono cable connects the tonearm, or the turntable, to the phono stage and carries the extremely small signal from the cartridge.
Why a good phono cable?
The phono signal is the most sensitive in the whole chain – tiny in level and therefore prone to hum and interference. A phono cable is therefore especially well shielded and usually carries a separate ground wire to avoid ground loops. With MM cartridges, the cable's capacitance also plays an audible role. In short: here the cable is not an afterthought, but part of the tuning.
What matters
What matters is very good shielding, a working ground connection and, with MM cartridges, a capacitance that matches the phono stage. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil we look at cartridge, tonearm and phono stage together and choose the phono cable to match, both sonically and electrically. Especially with vinyl, it's the interplay of the components that decides – not the most expensive single part.
Who it's for – and straight talk
For anyone serious about listening to vinyl – from a solid entry-level turntable to a high-end deck with a separate tonearm cable and external phono stage.
Straight talk: with a phono cable, technique comes first: shielding, grounding, and with MM the capacitance. If these basics are right, vinyl plays quietly and hum-free. Only then comes the fine-tuning. We make sure the technical fit is right first and tell you honestly where the audible difference actually lies.
Verdict: very good shielding, clean grounding, matching capacitance – then your record plays quietly and cleanly. Tell us your cartridge and your phono stage, and we'll find the right cable.
Frequently asked questions
Why does phono need a special cable?
Because the cartridge's signal is extremely small and therefore prone to interference. A phono cable is especially well shielded and usually carries a ground wire to avoid hum. A normal line cable isn't designed for this.
What is the ground wire on a phono cable for?
It connects the turntable to the ground of the phono stage and thus prevents ground loops. If this connection is missing or sits loosely, hum is often clearly audible. We'll show you how to connect the ground correctly.
What's the deal with capacitance on MM cartridges?
MM cartridges respond to the total capacitance of cable and phono input – it audibly affects the treble response. That's why the cable should match your cartridge's recommended capacitance. With MC cartridges this is less critical. We clarify this based on your cartridge.
How long can a phono cable be?
Because of the tiny signal, the rule is: as short as sensibly possible. Shorter runs keep interference, and with MM the capacitance, in check. More important than maximum length is clean shielding and grounding. We recommend a suitable length for your setup.
Can I use a normal RCA cable for phono?
We'd advise against it. Without sufficient shielding, grounding and matching capacitance, you easily end up with hum or an altered sound. For phono, a dedicated cable is worthwhile. We'll tell you what matches your system.
Why buy a phono cable at HD Zürisee?
Because we understand vinyl as a system and consider cartridge, tonearm and phono stage together, instead of just selling a cable. That way the connection fits both electrically and sonically. We advise you personally and deliver throughout Switzerland – free shipping from CHF 190.
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