QED Reference Audio 40 RCA Interconnect (1m Pair)

The QED Reference Audio 40 sits in the upper tier of QED’s analogue interconnect range, positioned between the mid-range Performance series and the flagship Signature line. It draws on more than 45 years of cable research from the British manufacturer, building on the engineering principles first established in QED’s cable programme since 1995. The Reference Audio 40 is designed as a stereo RCA interconnect for connecting source components — CD players, DACs, turntables — to amplifiers and AV receivers.

Complementary Conductor Technology

At the heart of the Reference Audio 40 is QED’s Complementary Conductor Technology (CCT). The cable uses an asymmetrical twisted pair geometry with two silver-plated 99.999% oxygen-free copper (SPOFC) conductors of different diameters. This arrangement provides an alternative signal pathway for high-frequency audio components that might otherwise become time-smeared within a single conductor, helping to preserve the timing and detail of the original signal.

Analoc2™ Connector Design

The second-generation Analoc2™ RCA plugs represent a significant evolution from the original Analoc design. QED has entirely removed all conductive material from the plug bodies, replacing the traditional brass housing with a high-rigidity thermoplastic inner support. This non-conductive body eliminates eddy currents that can form in metal plug housings and degrade signal integrity. The hollow, gold-plated high-purity copper signal pins are retained from the original design, while the improved slip-ring mechanism provides a more secure dual-blade ground connection via low-mass metal barrels.

Aircore™ Dielectric & Shielding

The cable employs a low-density polyethylene (LDPE) inner jacket as its primary dielectric, chosen for its low-loss characteristics. A Zn/Mn ferrite jacket surrounds the conductors to absorb very high-frequency noise components outside the audible band — unwanted energy that can adversely affect the micro-timing of the audio signal. An oxygen-free copper (OFC) shield provides 100% electromagnetic screening, isolating the signal path from external interference.

What the Press Says

• “Compellingly big and clear soundstage” — What Hi-Fi? ★★★★☆ (March 2022)