Are you tired of dealing with dodgy RCA cables on your turntable?
Do you cringe at the thought of that horrendous buzzing noise that comes from not having them in the exact right place?
Fear not, because replacing your RCA cables is easier than you might think.
In this article, we’ll explore three different options for replacing your cables and discuss the pros and cons of each.
Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or a newcomer to the world of turntables, we’ve got you covered.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of RCA cable replacement.
How To Replace Rca Cables On Turntable
Option 1: Cut off the original male plugs and replace them with new gold plated ones.
This option is the easiest and most straightforward. All you need to do is cut off the old male plugs and replace them with new ones further down the wire.
Gold plated plugs are a great choice because they provide a better connection and reduce the risk of interference.
However, this option may not improve the sound quality as much as the other options.
Why Replace RCA Cables On Your Turntable?
Replacing the RCA cables on your turntable can have a significant impact on the overall sound quality of your system. Over time, the original cables may become worn or damaged, leading to interference and a loss of sound quality.
In addition, replacing the cables with higher quality ones can result in a clearer and more detailed sound, with improved bass and treble response.
By replacing the RCA cables, you can ensure that your turntable is delivering the best possible sound quality to your amplifier or receiver. Whether you choose to cut off the original plugs and replace them with new ones, or solder in new jacks for greater flexibility, upgrading your cables is a simple and effective way to improve your audio system.
Option 1: DIY Replacement
If you’re looking for a DIY replacement for your turntable’s RCA cable, then Option 1 is the way to go. It’s a simple process that requires minimal tools and can be done relatively quickly.
First, you’ll need to purchase new gold plated male RCA plugs. You can find these at most electronics stores or online. Make sure to choose plugs that are the same size as your current ones.
Next, carefully cut off the old male plugs from the cable using wire cutters. Be sure to leave enough cable length to work with.
Strip the ends of the wires to expose the copper underneath. Twist each wire tightly to prevent fraying.
Slide the new plugs onto the cable, making sure to match the colors of the wires with the corresponding plugs (red with red, white with white).
Use a soldering iron to attach the wires to the new plugs. Apply heat to the plug and wire until they are securely joined together. Be careful not to overheat or melt the plastic housing of the plug.
Once you’ve soldered both plugs onto the cable, use heat shrink tubing or electrical tape to cover any exposed wires and prevent them from touching each other.
Finally, test your new RCA cable by plugging it into your turntable and amplifier. Make sure there is no buzzing or interference and that the sound quality is satisfactory.
Option 2: Professional Replacement
Option 2 involves a professional replacement of the entire RCA cable. This option is more complicated and requires a bit more skill and knowledge about the inner workings of turntables.
To begin, you will need to remove the original RCA cable from the circuitry of the turntable. This may involve opening up the turntable and carefully disconnecting the wires.
Once the old cable is removed, you can replace it with a new, high-quality RCA cable. It’s important to choose a cable that is specifically designed for turntables, as these cables are shielded and have a lower capacitance, which can improve sound quality.
When soldering the new cable in place, it’s important to take care and make sure all connections are secure and properly grounded. Mundorf Supreme silver/gold solder is a good choice for this task.
This option may provide the best improvement in sound quality, but it requires more time and effort than option 1. If you’re not comfortable with soldering or working with electronics, it may be best to leave this option to a professional.
Option 3: Upgrading Your RCA Cables
Option 3 involves replacing the entire cable with a new one. This option may be more time-consuming and complex, but it can have a significant impact on the sound quality.
To replace the entire cable, you will need to open up the turntable and locate the PCB where the output cables are soldered. You will then need to desolder the old cable and solder in a new one.
When choosing a new cable, it is important to consider factors such as capacitance and flexibility. Low capacitance flexible cables are recommended as they can reduce interference and improve sound quality.
While this option may require more effort, it can result in a significant improvement in sound quality. It is important to take your time and ensure that all connections are properly soldered and grounded to avoid any issues or damage to your turntable.
Pros And Cons Of Each Option
Option 2: Replace the entire cable with a higher quality one.
Replacing the entire cable with a higher quality one is a popular option. This option offers better shielding and improved signal transfer, resulting in better sound quality.
However, this option can be more expensive than simply replacing the male plugs. Additionally, it may require more technical knowledge to install properly.
Option 3: Upgrade to a balanced connection.
Upgrading to a balanced connection is the most advanced option. This option completely negates any interference and provides the best sound quality possible.
However, this option can be very expensive and may require specialized equipment. Additionally, not all turntables and amplifiers are compatible with balanced connections.
How To Choose The Right Replacement Option For You
When it comes to replacing RCA cables on your turntable, there are a few options to choose from. The right replacement option for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some things to consider:
Option 1: Cut off the original male plugs and replace them with new gold plated ones.
This option is the easiest and most straightforward. All you need to do is cut off the old male plugs and replace them with new ones further down the wire. Gold plated plugs are a great choice because they provide a better connection and reduce the risk of interference. However, this option may not improve the sound quality as much as the other options.
Option 2: Replace the entire cable with a higher quality one.
If you want to improve the sound quality of your turntable, replacing the entire cable is a good option. Look for cables that are shielded to reduce interference and have high quality connectors. This option requires a bit more work than option 1, but it can make a noticeable difference in sound quality.
Option 3: Upgrade to a wireless connection.
If you’re tired of dealing with cables altogether, upgrading to a wireless connection may be the right choice for you. Many turntables now come with Bluetooth connectivity or you can purchase a separate Bluetooth adapter. This option provides convenience and eliminates the need for cables altogether, but it may not provide the same level of sound quality as wired connections.
Ultimately, the right replacement option for you will depend on your personal preferences and budget. Consider what’s most important to you – convenience, sound quality, or ease of installation – and choose an option that fits your needs.
