QED Audio Evolution Interconnect (1m Pair)

The QED Audio Evolution sits within QED's Reference range of analogue interconnects, designed for listeners who want measurably lower signal degradation than entry-level cables can offer. As a stereo RCA phono interconnect, it connects source components — CD players, turntables with built-in phono stages, network streamers, DACs — to an integrated amplifier or AV receiver. It has since been succeeded by the Reference Audio 40, which introduces QED's second-generation Analoc2™ plug and Complementary Conductor Technology (CCT), but the Audio Evolution remains a capable Reference-tier cable at a more accessible price point.

Conductor and Geometry

The Audio Evolution uses silver-plated 99.999% oxygen-free copper (SPOFC) conductors arranged in a dual symmetrical twisted pair geometry. The symmetrical layout ensures that both signal conductors follow identical paths, which improves common-mode noise rejection — external interference picked up equally on both conductors cancels out at the receiving end. Silver plating over high-purity OFC combines the low bulk resistance of copper with the superior surface conductivity of silver, which is particularly relevant at higher audio frequencies where the skin effect concentrates current flow near the conductor surface.

Shielding and Insulation

Signal integrity is protected by a double-screening arrangement: an inner layer of silver-plated 99.999% OFC braid combined with an outer Mylar foil wrap. Together, these provide 100% magnetic shielding, preventing electromagnetic interference from reaching the signal conductors. The insulation uses double-skinned foamed low-density polyethylene (LDPE), which has a lower dielectric constant than solid polyethylene. The foamed structure introduces air pockets that reduce the amount of energy stored and released by the insulation — a phenomenon known as dielectric absorption or dissipation — helping to preserve transient detail and timing accuracy.

Termination

Each connector features an 8-leaf 24K gold-plated RCA ground ring, which provides a stronger and more consistent contact area than standard split-ring designs. The precision-engineered plug body includes an integrated user grip for secure insertion and removal without placing stress on the cable-to-plug junction.