Audioquest Chaussette Rocket 88 SBW (pack of 4)
Complementary product
Overview
When you finish high-end speaker cables yourself, the last centimeter matters just as much as the meters that come before it. These PVC termination sleeves accompany Rocket 88 cables sold on a reel and provide a neat finish while protecting the junction between the cable and its connectors. Sold in packs of four, they cover a complete stereo pair in bi-wiring configuration.
A technical part, not just cosmetic
Bi-wiring (single bi-wire) consists of connecting a single cable on the amplifier side to two pairs of binding posts on the speaker side, separating the bass path from the mid/high path. This configuration creates a specific mechanical constraint: where the cable splits, the conductors are vulnerable to twisting and fraying.
The Rocket 88 SBW boots address this issue through their tailored geometry. The pack includes two four-outlet sleeves for the speaker side and two two-outlet sleeves for the amplifier side. The PVC used is rigid enough to hold the strands in place, yet flexible enough not to create a stress point on the cable itself.
Identification and installation
Each sleeve is marked “Speaker End” or “Amp End”. AudioQuest insists on observing cable direction throughout the Rocket range: the conductors are oriented at the factory to minimize RF interference. These markings help preserve that orientation during assembly, a detail professional installers appreciate.
Installation requires no special tools. Slide the sleeve onto the cable before soldering or crimping the connectors (bananas, spades, or BFA, sold separately), then move it into its final position. The inner diameter is calibrated for the Rocket 88 and its 13 AWG gauge; it is not suitable for other, thinner models in the series.
Strict compatibility with Rocket 88
AudioQuest offers similar sleeves for each model in the Rocket range (11, 22, 33, 44, 88). Dimensions differ from one model to the next. The Rocket 88, the thickest cable in the series with its PSC+ conductors in Double Star-Quad geometry, requires these specific sleeves. Using those from a Rocket 44 or Rocket 33 will not work: the cable simply will not fit.
Technical Specifications
Identification and Compatibility
- Termination for cables in bi-wiring configuration
- Compatible with Rocket 88 cables
Features
- Clean, organized finish for cables sold by the meter
- Improves cable aesthetics and management
Package Contents
- Set of 4 sleeves
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these sleeves essential for using the Rocket 88 cable in bi-wiring?
No. The cable works perfectly without them. They provide a clean finish and mechanical protection but do not affect electrical performance. Some installers prefer to leave the junction exposed to make any future modifications easier.
Can they be used with other AudioQuest cables of similar diameter?
No, they are sized exclusively for the Rocket 88. According to AudioQuest, the Type 5 cable, despite having a similar diameter, is not compatible. For other Rocket models, you must order the corresponding sleeves (a different reference for each gauge).
What is the difference between the SBW and Full Range versions?
The Full Range version includes four identical two-outlet sleeves (standard configuration without bi-wiring). The SBW version includes two four-outlet sleeves and two two-outlet sleeves, suitable for bi-wiring where the cable splits on the speaker side.
Should they be installed before or after soldering the connectors?
Before. Once the connectors are in place, it is impossible to slide the sleeve on. This is a classic mistake when doing terminations for the first time.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- Manufacturer reference: 68-102-21
- GTIN / EAN: 92592085244