Audioquest Rocket 11 SBA (2 x 4.5m)

Within AudioQuest’s Rocket range, the 11 model occupies the entry-level position. This placement doesn’t detract from its technical sophistication: you still get the semi-solid concentric conductors and long-grain copper found in the higher models. The SBA (Single Bi-Amp) version is distinguished by its four connectors at each end, designed for systems where bass and treble amplifiers are separate.

Concentric conductors: fewer interactions, greater precision

In a conventional multistrand cable, the wires change position along the run. This movement creates electrical and magnetic interactions between strands, which become a source of distortion. AudioQuest addresses this issue with a semi-solid concentric structure: the strands, fewer in number but larger in diameter, stay in place along the entire length of the cable.

The term “True-Concentric” refers to a technique in which each layer of strands is wound in the opposite direction to the previous one. This arrangement eliminates continuous lines of contact between layers and increases pressure at the remaining contact points. The process requires more machine time (and is more expensive to produce), but it measurably reduces distortion.

LGC copper: fewer impurities in the signal path

The Rocket 11 uses LGC (Long-Grain Copper), a material whose crystalline grains are longer than those in standard OFHC copper. Why does this matter? Each boundary between two grains forms a micro-discontinuity in the conductor. Fewer boundaries mean fewer obstacles to current flow and less internal oxidation. LGC copper also contains fewer impurities than conventional OFHC copper.

Twisted double-spiral geometry

A speaker cable with parallel conductors has relatively high inductance. Inductance “smears” energy over time, which translates into a less well-defined sound. In the Rocket 11, each conductor pair (positive and negative) is twisted around the other in an inverted spiral pattern. This geometry lowers inductance and promotes extended frequency response from bass to treble.

SBA configuration for bi-amplification

The SBA version of the Rocket 11 is terminated with four connectors at each end. On the amplifier side, two pairs connect to the outputs of the bass amp and the treble amp. On the speaker side, the four plugs connect to the corresponding binding posts. This configuration preserves magnetic separation between the cable’s bass and treble sections: the high-amplitude current feeding the woofer does not interfere with the more delicate signal going to the tweeter.

AudioQuest compares this phenomenon to swimming: removing the waves (the bass) from the water makes it easier for the swimmer (the treble) to move forward.

SureGrip 300 connectors

SureGrip 300 plugs use silver plating directly over copper, with no intermediate nickel layer. Nickel, often found in common audio connectors, adds resistance to signal flow. SureGrip 300 connectors are available in banana or spade versions, depending on your equipment’s binding posts.

A practical detail: each cable is marked to indicate connection direction (amplifier end, speaker end) and left/right identification. Directional control of the conductors is not a marketing gimmick: it routes RF noise drainage toward the amplifier’s ground rather than toward the speaker.

Installation and certification

The Rocket 11 has CL3/FT4 certification, authorizing in-wall use according to North American standards. Its PVC jacket remains flexible and is easy to handle in tight corners. The PVC insulation was chosen to minimize energy absorption: an insulator that is too “soft” can damp the conductor’s micro-vibrations and degrade signal dynamics.

The cables are built to order at AudioQuest’s headquarters in Irvine, California. Custom lengths and terminations are available on request from authorized dealers.

Technical Specifications

Conductor Architecture

• Semi-solid concentric conductors
  • Reduced interaction between strands
  • Minimized dynamic distortion
  • Significant improvement in sound clarity
• High-purity Long-Grain Copper (LGC)
  • Fewer impurities and grain boundaries than standard OFHC copper
  • Smoother, clearer, and more detailed sound
  • Better conductivity and signal transparency

Geometric Design

• Double spiral twisted geometry
  • Reduced inductance for better bass extension
  • Improved treble clarity
  • Optimized frequency response extension

Insulation and Noise Control

• PVC insulation
  • Minimized energy absorption
  • Preserves sound fidelity
  • Maintains signal integrity
• Directional RF noise control
  • Reduced radio-frequency noise
  • Improved signal transparency
  • Optimal performance in all environments

Connectivity

• SureGrip 300 connectors
  • Secure, stable contact
  • Reliable, long-lasting connection
  • Easy installation and removal

Applications

• Designed for bi-amping
• Compatible with high-fidelity systems
• Optimized for demanding audio setups