Oehlbach Series 2 RCA 2m

The Oehlbach Series 2 RCA is an analog audio cable designed to ensure faithful signal transmission in hi-fi and home theater systems. It stands out for its use of high-quality materials, such as HPOCC copper, and a triple-shielded construction aimed at minimizing interference. Designed for demanding users, it comes with a 30-year manufacturer’s warranty, a testament to its long-term reliability.

Technical Construction and Exceptional Materials

The Series 2 is built on a symmetrical coaxial architecture optimized to minimize signal loss. The central conductor uses HPOCC (High Purity Ohno Continuous Cast) copper, a monocrystalline, oxygen-free material produced through a specialized continuous casting process. This unique manufacturing technique results in a uniform crystalline structure along the entire length of the conductor, significantly reducing micro-discontinuities that can impair audio signal transmission.

The robust polymer outer sheath offers remarkable flexibility while effectively protecting the internal components from mechanical stress. This design allows for a minimal bending radius, making installation in tight spaces easier—a valuable feature in modern home theater setups where aesthetics and discretion are paramount.

The solid metal connectors are fully plated with 24-carat gold on all contact surfaces. This premium finish is not just for looks: gold offers excellent electrical conductivity and outstanding resistance to oxidation, ensuring a stable and durable connection even in humid or corrosive environments.

HPOCC Technology: The Art of Pure Transmission

The HPOCC copper used in the Series 2 represents the state of the art in audio conductors. Unlike traditional OFC (Oxygen Free Copper), which still contains microscopic grain boundaries, the HPOCC process produces an almost monocrystalline conductor over significant lengths. This continuous crystalline structure eliminates internal resistance barriers that can introduce subtle distortions into the audio signal.

In practical terms, this technology results in better preservation of musical detail, especially in the high frequencies where micro-distortions are most noticeable. Fast transients, essential for the faithful reproduction of acoustic instruments and vocals, benefit from more linear transmission, contributing to a more natural and detailed sound.

The Series 2’s linear capacitance of 52 pF/m reflects a carefully balanced approach to the cable’s electrical parameters. This moderate value avoids unwanted filtering effects that could alter the audio system’s frequency response, which is particularly important when connecting high-impedance equipment such as certain tube amplifiers or audiophile DACs.

Multilayer Shielding System and Protection

The Series 2’s triple shielding forms an effective barrier against the omnipresent electromagnetic disturbances in today’s home environments. The first layer, made of aluminum foil, provides primary protection against high-frequency electromagnetic fields generated by digital devices, mobile phones, and Wi-Fi networks.

The two overlapping copper braids complete this protection by forming a Faraday cage that is especially effective against low-frequency interference. This multilayer configuration achieves a remarkable level of isolation without making the cable excessively rigid, preserving its flexibility during installation.

This protection is particularly valuable in home theater setups where numerous electronic devices coexist in a confined space. Power amplifiers, video processors, and digital sources generate electromagnetic fields that can interfere with analog audio signals, making effective shielding essential to preserve sound purity.

Applications and System Compatibility

The Series 2 is suitable for a wide range of audiophile and home theater applications. Its symmetrical design makes it especially well-suited for connections between analog sources and amplifiers, where maintaining signal integrity is crucial. Turntables equipped with MC or MM cartridges, high-fidelity CD players, and digital-to-analog converters all benefit from this cable’s transmission qualities.

In home theater contexts, the Series 2 excels in connections between audio processors and multichannel power amplifiers. Its low linear capacitance makes it compatible with the high-impedance outputs of certain vintage or specialized equipment, broadening its application to the most eclectic audio systems.

The standard model’s 75 cm length meets the needs of most home installations, allowing direct connections between adjacent devices without excess length that could degrade the signal. This optimized dimension also avoids unsightly cable loops while maintaining enough slack for future system rearrangements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the concrete difference between HPOCC copper and standard OFC copper? HPOCC copper features a continuous crystalline structure along the entire length of the conductor, unlike OFC copper, which retains microscopic grain boundaries. This difference results in more uniform conductivity and reduced micro-distortions, which are especially audible in fast transients and fine musical details.

Is triple shielding really necessary in a home environment? In modern setups where many electronic devices coexist, triple shielding provides effective protection against interference. Wi-Fi networks, mobile phones, and digital equipment generate disturbances that can subtly affect audio quality. The Series 2’s multilayer shielding preserves signal purity even in these challenging environments.

Does the 30-year warranty cover all types of damage? The manufacturer’s warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use conditions. It generally does not extend to accidental mechanical damage, normal connector wear, or unauthorized modifications. The exact terms are specified in the documentation provided with the product.

How can I optimize the Series 2’s performance in my system? To fully unlock the cable’s potential, ensure your audio system has a sufficient level of resolution. Avoid excessive bending during installation and keep a reasonable distance from sources of electromagnetic interference. A break-in period of several dozen hours can also allow the materials to stabilize.

Technical Specifications

Connectors and Finishes

• Connector type: 2 x RCA
• Signal direction: input / output
• Contact finish: 24-carat gold-plated
• Plug material: solid metal

Cable Specifications

• Signal type: analog audio
• Configuration: balanced cable
• Capacitance: 52 pF / m
• Conductor material: HPOCC (monocrystalline oxygen-free copper)

Construction and Materials

• Shielding: triple shielding
  • 1 aluminum foil
  • 2 copper braids
• Outer sheath material: robust, highly flexible plastic
• Geometry: round

Dimensions and Physical Characteristics

• Cable diameter: 9.5 mm
• Bending radius: 105 mm
• Length: 2 m
• Color: blue

Performance and Benefits

• HPOCC conductors for lossless transmission
• High-performance shielding for excellent interference immunity
• 24-carat gold-plated contacts for a reliable and durable connection
• Robust design: resistant to wear and mechanical stress
• Optimal sound quality with rich detail
• Enhanced insulation against unwanted noise
• High flexibility for easy installation

General Information

• Designation: Oehlbach balanced analog audio cable
• Applications: high-fidelity wiring, home theater installations, demanding audiophile use
• Ideal use: high-end RCA connections for amplifiers, DACs, CD players, turntables
• Manufacturing: German, quality and precision Made in Germany
• Manufacturer’s warranty: 30 years