AudioQuest Big Sur RCA to RCA Analog Audio Interconnect Cables User Manual

1. Product Overview

The AudioQuest Big Sur RCA to RCA Analog Audio Interconnect Cables are designed to provide high-quality audio signal transmission between audio components. These cables feature advanced materials and construction techniques to minimize distortion and preserve audio fidelity.

Image: A pair of AudioQuest Big Sur RCA to RCA Analog Audio Interconnect Cables, showcasing their design and connectors.

The Big Sur cables utilize Solid Perfect-Surface Copper+ (PSC+) conductors, which have an exceptionally smooth and pure surface, achieved through proprietary metal-processing technology. This design aims to reduce distortion and enhance sound clarity. The insulation consists of air-filled Foamed-Polyethylene, chosen for its low energy absorption and benign distortion profile, which helps maintain signal integrity. Additionally, the cables incorporate a Metal-Layer Noise-Dissipation System to prevent RF Interference from affecting the equipment's ground reference.

2. Key Features

• Perfect-Surface Copper+ (PSC+) Conductors: Designed for an astonishingly smooth and pure surface to minimize distortion.
• Gold-Plated Pure "Purple-Copper" RCA Plugs: Ensures reliable and corrosion-resistant connections.
• Foamed-Polyethylene Insulation: Air-filled insulation reduces energy absorption and distortion.
• Metal-Layer Noise-Dissipation System: Prevents RF interference from modulating the equipment's ground reference.
• Analog Audio Interconnect: Specifically designed for analog audio signal transmission.

3. Setup Instructions

Follow these steps to properly connect your AudioQuest Big Sur RCA cables:

1. Identify Components: Ensure you have the audio source component (e.g., CD player, turntable pre-amp) and the destination component (e.g., amplifier, receiver) ready for connection.
2. Power Off: Turn off and unplug both the audio source and destination components from their power outlets before making any connections. This prevents potential damage to your equipment.
3. Connect Source Output: Locate the RCA output jacks on your audio source component. These are typically labeled "Output," "Line Out," or similar, and are usually color-coded (red for right channel, white/black for left channel). Connect one end of the AudioQuest Big Sur RCA cable to these output jacks, matching the colors.
4. Connect Destination Input: Locate the corresponding RCA input jacks on your destination component. These are typically labeled "Input," "Aux In," "CD In," or similar, and are also color-coded. Connect the other end of the AudioQuest Big Sur RCA cable to these input jacks, again matching the colors (red to red, white/black to white/black).
5. Secure Connections: Ensure all RCA plugs are firmly seated in their respective jacks. Avoid excessive force when connecting.
6. Power On: Once all connections are secure, plug in and power on your audio components.

For optimal performance, ensure the cables are not excessively bent or kinked, and avoid running them near power cables or other sources of electromagnetic interference.

4. Operating Instructions

Once the AudioQuest Big Sur RCA cables are correctly connected between your audio components, their operation is passive. The cables facilitate the transmission of the analog audio signal. To operate your audio system:

1. Select Input: On your destination component (e.g., amplifier, receiver), select the input source to which the Big Sur cables are connected (e.g., "CD," "Aux," "Line").
2. Play Audio: Begin playback from your audio source component.
3. Adjust Volume: Adjust the volume on your destination component to your desired listening level.

The cables are designed to transmit the audio signal faithfully without requiring any user interaction during playback.

5. Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance will help ensure the longevity and performance of your AudioQuest Big Sur RCA cables:

• Cleaning: If necessary, gently wipe the cable jackets with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive materials, as these can damage the cable.
• Connector Care: Keep the RCA plugs clean and free of dust or debris. If needed, use a cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol to clean the metal contacts, ensuring they are completely dry before reconnecting.
• Storage: When not in use, store the cables in a clean, dry environment, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight. Avoid tightly coiling or kinking the cables, as this can stress the internal conductors.
• Handling: Always grasp the connector housing when plugging or unplugging the cables, rather than pulling on the cable itself. This prevents strain on the cable-to-connector junction.
• Avoid Physical Damage: Protect the cables from being stepped on, crushed, or subjected to sharp objects, which can compromise their internal structure.

6. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your audio system after connecting the AudioQuest Big Sur RCA cables, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• No Sound:
  • Ensure both the source and destination components are powered on.
  • Verify that the RCA cables are securely connected to the correct input/output jacks on both components, matching color codes.
  • Check that the correct input source is selected on your amplifier or receiver.
  • Confirm that the volume is turned up on your amplifier/receiver and not muted.
  • Test with another known-working cable if available, to rule out a cable issue.
• Poor Sound Quality (e.g., static, hum, distorted audio):
  • Check all cable connections for looseness or corrosion. Re-seat them if necessary.
  • Ensure the cables are not running parallel to power cords or other electrical interference sources. Try rerouting the cables.
  • Verify that the source component is functioning correctly by testing with headphones or another output method if possible.
  • Ensure the destination component's input impedance matches the source's output impedance (though this is less common for standard RCA connections).
  • If only one channel has an issue, swap the left and right cables at one end to determine if the problem follows the cable or the component.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, consult the user manuals for your specific audio components or contact AudioQuest customer support.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Specific warranty details for the AudioQuest Big Sur RCA cables are not provided in the available product information. For warranty claims, technical support, or further assistance, please refer to the official AudioQuest website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty-related inquiries.

You can typically find contact information and detailed warranty policies on the manufacturer's official website:

AudioQuest Official Website