Oehlbach Series 2 XLR 1m

The Oehlbach Series 2 XLR is a balanced analog audio cable designed to meet the demands of hi-fi setups, recording studios, and advanced home theater systems. It combines high-quality materials, meticulous construction, and a robust finish. Featuring HPOCC copper conductors, triple shielding, and lockable gold-plated connectors, it prioritizes reliability and longevity, as evidenced by its 30-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Premium Construction and Materials

The Series 2 XLR’s design is based on a carefully engineered multilayer approach. The central conductor uses HPOCC (High Purity Ohno Continuous Casting) technology, a monocrystalline, oxygen-free copper with a continuous crystalline structure along the entire length of the conductor. This physical characteristic, achieved through a continuous casting process developed by Professor Ohno, minimizes crystalline discontinuities responsible for micro-distortions in signal transmission.

The cable’s round geometric architecture promotes an even distribution of electromagnetic fields. Its 9.5 mm diameter offers an optimal balance between mechanical strength and installation flexibility, with a minimum bend radius of 105 mm that makes routing through tight spaces easier. The soft plastic outer jacket resists mechanical stress while maintaining appreciable flexibility during repeated handling.

HPOCC Technology and Electrical Performance

HPOCC technology stands out from conventional copper due to its monocrystalline structure. Unlike traditional conductors made up of thousands of microcrystals, HPOCC® copper features crystalline continuity that eliminates grain boundaries, which are sources of local impedance and harmonic distortion. This structural homogeneity results in superior electrical conductivity and increased frequency linearity.

The linear capacitance of 52 pF/m is a crucial parameter for audio connections. This relatively low value limits high-frequency attenuation and preserves the transient dynamics of the signal. In balanced configuration, the cable benefits from natural immunity to external electromagnetic interference—a fundamental principle of professional audio transmission.

Professional Shielding and Electromagnetic Protection

The Series 2 XLR’s triple shielding system combines efficiency and redundancy. The first layer, made of aluminum foil, forms a continuous barrier against high-frequency electromagnetic radiation. The two superimposed copper braids provide additional protection against low-frequency interference while ensuring the electrical continuity necessary for effective shielding.

This multilayer architecture offers attenuation greater than 90 dB across the 10 kHz – 1 GHz range, a performance that far exceeds domestic requirements but meets the standards of the most demanding professional environments. The shielding’s effectiveness preserves signal integrity even in the presence of digital equipment, LED lighting, or Wi-Fi networks.

Secure Connectivity and Reliability

The solid metal 3-pin XLR connectors feature a secure locking system. This mechanism prevents accidental disconnections—a common issue in professional environments or during repeated handling. The 24-carat gold plating on the contacts ensures optimal resistance to oxidation and maintains stable conductivity over time, even in humid or saline atmospheres.

The male-female design allows for direct connection between devices or extension of existing links. The robustness of the metal connectors withstands the mechanical stresses of intensive use while preserving the precise alignment of contacts necessary for optimal transmission.

Applications and Versatility

The Series 2 XLR fits into multiple configurations. In home hi-fi, it connects preamplifiers, power amplifiers, digital processors, and active subwoofers. Its professional-grade construction also makes it suitable for recording studios, sound reinforcement installations, and broadcast applications where reliability is absolutely essential.

In home theater, this cable carries analog signals from processors to multichannel amplifiers. Its compatibility with high-resolution equipment makes it an ideal choice for setups dedicated to audiophile reproduction, where every component contributes to the overall fidelity of the system.

Technical Specifications

Connectivity

• Connector type: 3-pin female XLR
• Signal direction: input / output
• Lockable connectors: yes, enhanced security
• Connector material: solid metal
• Contact finish: 24-carat gold-plated

Cable Features

• Length: 1 m
• Diameter: 9.5 mm
• Geometry: round
• Minimum bend radius: 105 mm
• Color: blue
• Outer sheath material: flexible and durable plastic

Construction and Shielding

• Configuration: balanced cable
• Shielding type: reinforced triple shielding
  • 1 aluminum foil
  • 2 copper braids
• Conductor material: HPOCC – oxygen-free monocrystalline copper
• Capacitance: 52 pF / m

Technologies and Benefits

• HPOCC technology: ultra-pure monocrystalline copper conductors
• Balanced transmission: optimal reduction of electromagnetic interference
• Maximum protection: triple shielding layer
• 24-carat gold-plated contacts: increased durability and conductivity
• German manufacturing: premium quality and meticulous finish
• Manufacturer’s warranty: 30 years
• Audio performance: spatial and dynamic sound, extremely low signal distortion
• Installation: pre-assembled cable, ready to use without tools