Audioquest Root Beer 18Gbps 20m
Overview
The AudioQuest Root Beer 18Gbps cable is an active optical HDMI cable designed for home theater installations. It enables the transmission of 4K and 8K signals over distances of up to 30 meters thanks to its quartz glass fiber optic technology, reducing the signal loss typically associated with long HDMI runs.
Active Optical Design to Surpass Copper Limitations
The unique feature of the Root Beer 18 lies in its hybrid architecture combining fiber optics and metal conductors. The main audio/video channels use a fused silica (quartz) optical fiber that transmits data as light. This approach radically eliminates signal loss and electromagnetic interference that affect traditional copper cables over long distances.
The power required for the opto-electronic conversion modules comes directly from the HDMI port, making any external power adapter unnecessary. This feature greatly simplifies installation in complex setups where access to a power outlet would be problematic.
The conductors dedicated to eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) and communication signals use Long-Grain Copper. These conductors benefit from directional control, a proprietary AudioQuest technology that directs the flow of RF interference away from sensitive circuits. Tinned copper grounding drains complete this architecture by dissipating residual noise.
Level 4 Noise Dissipation System with Galvanic Isolation
The Root Beer 18 features AudioQuest’s level 4 noise dissipation system, the most advanced in the 18Gbps range. This technology relies on several complementary principles to ensure interference-free transmission.
Galvanic isolation is the first line of defense against interference. Since the optical fiber is non-conductive, it forms an impenetrable barrier to RF noise that pollutes the modern electromagnetic environment. This total immunity to radio frequencies is a decisive advantage in installations exposed to Wi-Fi, cellular, and satellite radiation.
Directional control of the cable’s 19 conductors is the second pillar of this protection. Rather than simply blocking interference, this technology actively channels and evacuates it away from audio and video circuits. This dynamic approach surpasses traditional shielding, which merely contains disturbances without eliminating them.
The PVC jacket provides robust mechanical protection while maintaining the flexibility needed for complex installations. This sheath protects the delicate optical fibers and maintains the cable’s structural integrity along its entire length.
Technical Performance and Broad Compatibility
With its 18 Gbps bandwidth, the Root Beer 18 supports resolutions up to 8K at 30 frames per second in 8-bit with 4:2:0 subsampling. This equates to a definition of 7680 x 4320 pixels, or more than 33 million displayed pixels. For 4K content, the cable supports refresh rates up to 60 Hz with full colorimetry.
HDR (High Dynamic Range) compatibility includes both static and dynamic formats. The cable faithfully transmits HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision metadata, enabling frame-by-frame optimization of contrast and color. This ensures deep blacks, brilliant whites, and an extended color palette on compatible screens.
eARC represents a major evolution over traditional ARC, which is limited to compressed 5.1 surround sound. This new standard significantly increases the audio return channel’s bandwidth, allowing the transmission of uncompressed high-resolution audio formats such as Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, and DTS:X. Recent soundbars and home theater amplifiers fully exploit these capabilities.
A Technical Alternative to the Cherry Cola 18
The Root Beer 18 shares many features with the Cherry Cola 18, the brand’s higher-end model. Both cables use active optical technology and offer similar performance on paper. However, several differences justify the difference in positioning.
The Cherry Cola’s optical conversion modules come from different suppliers and offer superior specifications. The Cherry Cola also adds silver-plated drain wires and a carbon fiber dissipation network, giving it a level 4+ noise dissipation rating. The Cherry Cola’s eARC conductors also feature silver plating, which is absent on the Root Beer.
These technical refinements in the Cherry Cola result in subtle nuances in sound reproduction, particularly noticeable on very high-end systems. Nevertheless, the Root Beer remains a coherent choice for most installations, offering the essential benefits of optical technology at a more accessible price.
Technical Specifications
Performance Specifications
- Bandwidth: 18 Gbps
- Supported resolutions: up to 4K @ 60 Hz and 8K @ 30 Hz
- Compatibility: 4K-8K
- Maximum length: up to 30 meters
- Interference attenuation: level 4
- Full galvanic isolation
- Unidirectional transmission
Construction and Materials
- Audio/video conductor: fused silica optical fiber (high-purity quartz)
- eARC conductor: fine-grain copper
- Ground drains: tinned copper
- Sheath: PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
- Cable type: active optical HDMI 2.0b
Connectivity and Compatibility
- Power supply: powered by the HDMI port, no external adapter required
- Direction control: eARC conductors and communication to minimize RF noise
- Compatibility: TVs, projectors, soundbars, AV receivers, game consoles
Advantages
- Long-distance lossless transmission: active optical fiber ensures clear, distortion-free transmission up to 30 meters, ideal for home theater or professional installations
- Immunity to radio frequency noise: optical fiber does not pick up or transmit RF interference, ensuring a pure, undisturbed signal
- High-fidelity audio/video: optimal transmission for sharp 4K HDR or 8K images and clear, natural sound
- Simple installation: no external power required, the cable connects directly to HDMI ports
- Durability: robust design with premium materials for reliable, long-lasting use
Recommended Applications
- Home theater with long distance between source and screen
- Connecting projectors in conference rooms or auditoriums
- AV systems requiring 4K/8K HDMI performance over long distances
- Professional audiovisual installations
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Root Beer 18 require external power to operate?
No, the cable is powered directly via the source HDMI port. The integrated optical conversion modules draw the necessary energy from the HDMI connection itself, eliminating any need for an external power adapter. This feature greatly simplifies installation, especially in setups where access to a power outlet would be difficult.
Is the cable compatible with older HDMI equipment?
Yes, the Root Beer 18 maintains full backward compatibility with all previous generations of the HDMI standard. It will work perfectly with HDMI 1.4 sources and displays or earlier, automatically adjusting its performance to the capabilities of the connected equipment. Naturally, advanced features such as eARC or HDR require compatible devices to be utilized.
How can I ensure the cable is connected in the correct direction?
The Root Beer 18 is a directional cable that must be installed the right way to function. The connectors are clearly labeled: the “Source” connector or the one with an outgoing arrow plugs into the transmitting device (Blu-ray player, console, set-top box), while the “Display” connector or the one with an incoming arrow connects to the screen or projector. This directionality results from the internal architecture optimized for unidirectional data flow.
Can this cable be used for in-wall or conduit installations?
The Root Beer 18 is “in-wall rated,” meaning it meets safety standards for installation inside walls or conduits. Its durable PVC jacket protects the internal components while complying with fire resistance requirements. This certification makes it easy to integrate into professional or home installations requiring discreet cable routing.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- Manufacturer reference: HDM18RBEER2000
- GTIN / EAN: 92592015449
