QED Performance Audio Graphite RCA Interconnect (1m Pair)

The Performance Audio Graphite sits at the heart of QED’s three-tier cable hierarchy, drawing directly on engineering developed for the flagship Reference range while remaining accessible to system builders looking for a meaningful upgrade over entry-level connections. Within the Performance series it serves as the dedicated analogue RCA interconnect, partnering the Performance Digital Audio, Performance Optical Graphite, and Performance J2P Graphite in a coherent loom for two-channel and multi-source systems.

Conductor & Dielectric

The signal path uses 99.999% oxygen-free copper (OFC) conductors, a purity grade that minimises crystal boundaries and the micro-distortions they introduce to low-level audio signals. The conductors are insulated with low-density polyethylene (LDPE), chosen for its low dielectric constant. LDPE stores and releases less energy than PVC or solid polyethylene, reducing capacitive signal loss across the audio band. The measured capacitance of 115 pF/m and dissipation factor of 0.0012 reflect this material choice.

Quasi-Balanced Construction

Rather than using a simple coaxial layout, Performance Audio Graphite employs a quasi-balanced twisted-pair geometry. Twisting the signal and return conductors together allows the cable to reject common-mode interference—electrical noise that appears equally on both conductors is cancelled out, much as it would be in a fully balanced XLR connection. The twisted pair is wrapped in an aluminium/Mylar foil shield that provides 100% electrostatic screening, with an OFC drain wire carrying intercepted noise to ground. The screen is connected at the source end only, preventing the ground loop that can form when both ends of a single-ended shield are tied to chassis ground.

Connectors

Each cable is terminated with QED’s proprietary 24k gold-plated RCA plugs in a six-leaf contact design. The split centre pin maintains consistent contact pressure inside the socket, reducing the micro-arcing that degrades signal transfer at a loose-fitting connection. The plug bodies use ergonomically shaped, zinc-plated alloy barrels for a secure grip during installation and cable dressing.

Jacket & Handling

A flexible PVC outer jacket protects the internal geometry while keeping the cable pliable enough for tight routing behind equipment racks. The directional construction is marked on the cable to ensure correct orientation of the earthed screen.