Newsgroups: rec.audio.tech
Subject: Re: max. length of a line-out cable
References:  <[email protected]>
"Geoff Wood"  writes:

> "Markus Nerf"  wrote in message 
> news:[email protected]...
> > Hi,
> >
> > what is the max. length for a line-out cable between a PC-Soundcard and an
> > amplifier?
> 
> Depends on he soundcard. If a balanced output, chances are it has a good 
> drive capability and 25 metres shouldn't be a problem.  

True. 

> If mini-jack output 
> or other unbalanced output, I would not be inclined to go more than 2 metres 
> without a line driver box.

This depedns on the soundcard. 
Many PC soundcards line outputs have quite low output impedance 
(to allow them to drive headphoes etc..). Such low output impedance 
output on soundcar can easily drive some distance of cable without 
too much problems. Around 10 meters has not normally been a problem 
when carefully done. 

The unbalanced audio output of PC soundcard travelling trough 
a bnormal audio cable can quite easily pick up all kinds of noises 
from outside, most typially humming noise... Depends how fat 
from power wires you keep the cable and how you have wired your 
power to your equipment if this is a problem or not. 

A proper linde driver box that outputs balanced output is the 
best choise. With such thign you can definately run the signal 
from any soundcard tens of meters without problems.

> > What type of cable should I use for a distance of 20 - 25 meters?
> 
> Only screened balanced cable (with line driver if nmot balanced output).
> 
> > Is a wired cable with a cross-section of 0,6 meters ok?
> 
> You'll never be able to lift it.
> 
> > Example: J-Y(St)Y 4 x 2 x 0,6mm
> 
> That sounds better.
> 
> geoff 
> 
> 

-- 
Tomi Engdahl (http://www.iki.fi/then/)
Take a look at my electronics web links and documents at 
http://www.epanorama.net/