Cables and Connections

Cables and Connections
Interference and hum can be avoided! A few minutes spent
checking cable runs and connectors pays dividends.
• A balanced audio connection provides low noise operation
by cancelling out any interference in a signal. It does this
by using a 2-conductor mic cable surrounded by a shield.
Any interference picked up will be of the same polarity on
the two conductors and is therefore rejected by the mic
input’s Differential Amplifier.
• Don’t skimp on interconnecting cables - always buy the
best that you can afford. Make sure that all connections are
sound and keep cable runs as short as is practicable.
• A multicore cable and stage box will keep trailing cables to
a minimum and presents a tidy and practical approach.
• If your mixer has a separate power supply unit, keep it well
away from the console.
• Where signal and mains cables must cross, make sure
they’re at 90° to each other. This will help reduce the risk
of hum and noise.
• If the venue has a three-phase supply, don’t share the same
phase as lighting controllers.