The Connect it Line DS XLR sits within Pro-Ject's DS (Dual Shielded) cable range, designed for high-quality balanced connections between premium line-level sources and amplifiers. The DS line represents the brand's mid-tier cable offering, positioned above the entry-level E and S ranges and targeting systems where shielding and conductor quality make a meaningful difference to the audio signal.
Construction
The cable uses 99.99% OFC (oxygen-free copper) conductors with a cross-section of 2 x 0.2 mm2. A high-flexible cell polyethylene dielectric surrounds the conductors, chosen for its low capacitance of 90 pF at the 1.23m length. Shielding is provided by a helical OFC copper braid with a carbon-saturated conductive sub-jacket, which offers thorough protection against interference while preserving the cable's flexibility. An outer thermoplastic elastomer jacket completes the construction.
Connectors
Each end is terminated with Neutrik XLR connectors featuring silver-plated signal pins. Silver plating is used in preference to gold on the DS line because silver oxide, which forms gradually through normal use, remains as electrically conductive as silver itself, maintaining signal integrity over the long term. The sturdy metal bodies of the Neutrik connectors provide a secure, low-resistance coupling at each junction.
Balanced Operation
The XLR configuration provides a fully balanced audio path, which rejects common-mode interference and noise along the cable run. This makes the Connect it Line DS XLR particularly suited to systems where the source component and amplifier both offer balanced XLR outputs and inputs. The cable is sold as a stereo pair, providing left and right channels in a single set.
Handmade in Europe
All DS-line cables are assembled by hand in Europe, in keeping with Pro-Ject's broader manufacturing philosophy of combining careful handwork with consistent quality control.
