Maybe the sound you are getting in your car is not what you expected yet the audio system looks great. So what could be the problem? It might just be that the cables that came with your car audio need to be swapped with better RCA cables. Also consider adding an amplifier or subwoofer to your car for a better music experience. But in the meantime, let’s focus on those RCA cables.
Basically, RCA cables are used to carry signals from the car audio player to the amp or subwoofer or from a car amp to the subwoofer and so on. Now that the market is full of different types of RCA cables, how would you know the best type to choose?
Well, we’ve got you covered. With this review, we’ve gathered the best RCA cables for car audio, thereby making it easier for you to choose. Read on for the best deals.
Table of Contents
- Top 8 Best RCA Cables Comparison Table
- How We Chose the Best RCA Cables for Use in Car Audio
- 1. Better Cables RCA Cables: Overall Best
- 2. Rockford Fosgate Twisted Pair RCA Cables
- 3. Hosa CMP-159 – Best for Mini Devices
- 4. Mediabridge 3.5mm RCA Cable
- 5. Audioquest Evergreen RCA Cables
- 6. KabelDirekt RCA Stereo Cable
- 7. AmazonBasics RCA Cables
- 8. UGREEN 3.5mm RCA Cable
- Things to Consider Before Buying the Best RCA Cables for Car Audio
- Final Verdict on RCA Cables
Top 8 Best RCA Cables Comparison Table
How We Chose the Best RCA Cables for Use in Car Audio
Considering the fact that there are dozens of RCA cables in the market, it can be a challenge to choose the best type for your car audio. We can help.
We chose the best RCA cables for use in-car audio upon doing intensive research. We gathered reports from experts dealing with RCA cables for car music systems. We also reviewed findings from existing research done on different RCA cables.
In addition, we interviewed a good number of real users to find out the RCA cables they find best in their cars. From our thorough research and the reports we gathered, we were able to come up with a list of the 8 best RCA cables for car audio.
Let’s get started!
1. Better Cables RCA Cables: Overall Best
Better Cables boast of being a unique hybrid RCA cable made from a combination of both silver and copper. The hybrid delivers more efficient conductivity and reduced resistance. With no doubt, this unique hybrid makes Better Cables feature in this review. The hybrid eliminates the challenges associated with pure copper or silver RCA cables.
Features and Benefits of Better RCA Cables
- Incredible silver coating: Better Cables are specially coated with pure silver rather than copper. Pure silver is known to be a better conductor than copper, thus the silver coating delivers better conductivity of car audio signals
- Highly flexible: Better Cables are designed to be very flexible such that they bend easily without damage to the cables and the cable cover. Their flexibility ensures that you can easily bend the cable over or around any obstacle while connecting them between car audio components.
- Low capacitance: In addition, another notable feature of Better Cables is that they are designed with low capacitance. Lower capacitance in RCA cables means that the cable is less likely to pick stray signals, thus it only delivers original signals, thereby making the original sound more noticeable.
- Stranded conductors: Most noteworthy is that Better Cables come with stranded conductors. The stranded conductors in the RCA cables comprise many thin cables with the aim of increasing flexibility and surface area of conductivity and reducing resistance.
- Braided shielding: In addition, another great feature that comes with Better Cables RCA Cables is that they have 95 percent braided shielding. The shielding surrounds the cable to limit the chances of signals from escaping, thereby delivering high-quality signals.
Pros
- High flexibility
- Very low capacitance
- Stranded conductors
- Suitable for multichannel application
- Quality insulation
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Stranded cabling may cause some electronic interference
- Silver coating may get oxidized with time
Our Verdict
If you really need an RCA cable for your car audio with high conductivity and minimal resistance, then you should add Better RCA Cables to your shortlist. However, be ready to pay more for its quality features.
- Award-winning audiophile-grade audio cables
- Great for any stereo or multi-channel audio application - including Blu-ray, DVD, DVD-Audio, SACD, CD
- Instantly improves your home theater or home audio experience
- High-purity silver coating on conductor (silver is a better conductor than both copper and gold)
2. Rockford Fosgate Twisted Pair RCA Cables
Rockford Fosgate is one of the leading manufacturers of car audio components. The manufacturer is not left behind when it comes to RCA cables. The Rockford Fosgate Twisted Pair is outstanding for delivering a highly clean audio signal. It’s designed to minimize the noise in an audio signal, thereby delivering high-quality sound.
Features and Benefits of Rockford Fosgate Twisted Pair
- Split pin: This lengthy RCA cable comes with a split center type of pin. The pin acts as a fastener that holds the cable securely in place and can be bent for fastening around objects such as screws.
- The copper that is free of oxygen: This RCA cable is made with an oxygen-free type of copper. The main benefit of this type of copper is that it resists corrosion and enhances the conductivity of low-frequency signals.
- Platinum-plated cable ends: The ends of the Rockford Fosgate RCA cable are plated with platinum. The benefit of platinum plating is that it makes the ends harder, thereby making them less prone to scratching, rusting, and other such surface damages.
- Frosted shielding: Rockford Fosgate cable comes with frosted outer shielding. The shielding reduces noise while still allowing for flexibility and enhancing the durability of the cable.
- Twisted pair wiring: This RCA cable is designed as a twisted pair cable and this comes with extra benefits. Twisted pair cable is effective in reducing electromagnetic radiation, interference, and crosstalk between the cables, thereby delivering great sound.
Pros
- Flexible
- Affordable
- Small ends
- No noise
- Incredible length
Cons
- Needs more insulation
- Not ideal for closely placed car audio system setup
- Twisted pair is fragile if pulled too tightly
Our Verdict
The Rockford Fosgate Twisted Pair is ideal for anyone who wants a lengthy RCA cable that delivers quality sound without the issues of noise. However, the cable is too lengthy for a car audio setup where the amp or speakers are closely set together.
Looking for a lengthy RCA cable? Then check out the Rockford Fosgate Twisted and enjoy its benefits.
- Twisted Pair Interconnects
- 20-Feet twisted pair signal cable.OFC (Oxygen Free Copper) for corrosion resistance
- RFI-20
3. Hosa CMP-159 – Best for Mini Devices
Hosa CMP-159 RCA cable is designed for quality and affordability. It’s actually one of the most readily available and affordable RCA cables without a compromise on the quality of sound it delivers. It’s built with hard work and high-quality, yet affordable material. Regardless of its affordability, it delivers high-quality audio signals.
Features and Benefits of Hosa CMP-159 RCA Cables
- Connectivity to mobile devices: One of the most noteworthy features of the Hosa CMP-159 RCA cable is its ability to connect to mobile devices. This RCA cable is specially designed for connectivity to mobile devices’ audio output to an audio mixer.
- Nickel-plated connectors: This RCA cable comes with plugs that are specially plated with nickel. Nickel plating ensures that its durability is enhanced while allowing for the efficient conductivity of audio signals.
- Copper conductors that are free of oxygen: This cable consists of copper conductors that have been treated to ensure they are oxygen-free. The key purpose of this kind of treatment is to ensure the RCA cables are more efficient at conducting audio signals.
- Bends easily: This RCA cable has a very sturdy build yet it bends easily. Despite having a sturdy build, the cable is not stiff such that it bends easily around corners and objects.
- Very affordable: This RCA cable outshines many other options when it comes to affordability. It’s extremely affordable for its quality.
Pros
- Connectivity to mobile devices
- Very affordable
- Long-lasting when handled carefully
- No noise when the cable is stable
- Great build
Cons
- Prone to tear in high traffic areas
- Requires more care when handling
- Some static noise when moving the cable
Our Verdict
The Hosa CMP-159 cable is ideal for anyone looking for a quality, yet extremely affordable cable. However, it demands more care when handling and is not ideal for use in high-traffic areas.
- This cable is designed to connect an audio device with a mini stereo phone output to Pro audio gear with unbalanced phone inputs. It is ideal for connecting an iPod, laptop, or similar device to a mixing console
- Nickel-plated plugs for rugged durability and efficient signal transfer
- Oxygen-free Copper (OFC) Conductors for Enhanced signal clarity
- Ofc Spiral shields for effective EMI and RFI Rejection and Flexibility
- Connectors): 3.5 mm TRS to dual 1/4 in TS. Length: 10
- 1/8 inch TRS to dual 1/4 inch TS cable
- 10 feet, Y cable
- 1/8 Inch TRS to Dual 1/4 Inch TS Cable
- 10 Feet, Y Cable
4. Mediabridge 3.5mm RCA Cable
Mediabridge 3.5mm is a single-male to two-male RCA adapter that is specially designed to connect mobile devices to a car audio system. It’s actually one of the best RCA cables for car audio that you can ever find. With this RCA cable, you can connect your portable device to your car audio receiver, amplifier, or speakers. Thus, you can easily bring your mobile music to your car with this RCA cable.
Features and Benefits of Mediabridge 3.5mm RCA Cables
- Step-down type of design: This RCA cable is specially built to have a step-down kind of design. The purpose of this design is to ensure the plugs are connected to both your mobile music device and the car audio system firmly.
- Dual shielding: The Mediabridge 3.5mm is built with dual shielding, unlike most RCA cables that have just a single shielding. Dual shielding makes the RCA cable less prone to electromagnetic interference from outside power sources, thereby delivering a clean signal.
- Polished metallic connectors: The RCA cable has specially polished jack connectors. Polished connectors are less prone to corrosion and give them a shiny, attractive finishing.
- Gold-plated connectors: This RCA cable comes with 3.5mm gold-plated jacks. Gold plating eliminates the problem of oxidation, thereby making the cable less prone to corrosion.
- Flexible jacket: Mediabridge 3.5mm RCA cable is extremely strong, yet it has a very flexible jacket. The flexible jacket makes it easy to pass the cable through tight spaces without damage to the conductors and shielding.
Pros
- High contact jack connectivity
- Connectivity to mobile devices
- Very affordable
- Flexible jacket
- Polished connectors
Cons
- The tight connectors require careful unplugging to avoid damaging the cable
- Restricted to the only male to male connections
- Limited to devices with 3.5mm jack
Our Verdict
Mediabridge 3.5mm RCA cable is ideal for anyone who wants to bring their mobile device music to their car and enjoy tight connections. However, remember that this cable can only get a signal from a 3.5mm jack.
Get this affordable Mediabridge 3.5mm on amazon right away and be part of other car owners enjoying its multiple benefits.
- Ideal for connecting portable audio devices, such as a Smartphone (iPhone), MP3 player (iPod) or tablet (iPad) to a stereo receiver, speaker or other RCA-enabled device.
- A beveled step-down design allows plugs to be fully connected, even when bulky cases are on your device.
- Built with dual-shielding, high-quality polished metal connectors and corrosion-resistant gold-plated 3.5mm connectors.
- Seamlessly transmits stereo audio for high-quality sound, while ensuring reliability and reduced signal loss. The cables flexible jacket is perfect for tight spaces. You can also charge your devices while in use (separate cable required).
- 3.5mm audio cable, 3.5mm cable, audio cable 3.5mm Male to Male, 3.5mm Male to Male stereo cable, 3.5mm Male to Male, iPhone cable, iPod Touch cable, MP3 cable, RCA Y, RCA audio splitter.
5. Audioquest Evergreen RCA Cables
The Audioquest Evergreen RCA cable has not been left behind by competing brands. This RCA cable stands out base on a special type of air-filled insulation to keep the conductors protected from losing signals. This kind of shielding also ensures that the audio signals are not affected by external energy sources.
Features and Benefits of Audioquest Evergreen RCA Cables
- Polyethylene foam insulation: The two, solid copper conductors of this RCA cable are insulated with polyethylene foam. The foam is filled with air whose purpose is to ensure the conductors are insulated against absorbing external energy such as electromagnetic energy and radio frequencies.
- Long grain and solid copper wire: Audioquest Evergreen RCA cable is specially designed with long grain and solid copper wire. This type of copper comes with fewer oxides than standard copper, is less impure, and has fewer grain boundaries, thereby enhancing its conductivity.
- Connectivity to mobile devices: The cable comes with a male 3.5mm jack and two male RCA outputs for car stereo speakers or amp. You can simply plug in the 3.5mm jack to any mobile device that has a 3.5mm audio port such as a mobile phone, laptop, or music player.
- Gold plated connectors: This 3.5mm to RCA cable comes with gold plated plugs that are cold-welded. Gold is hardly prone to oxidation such that the plugs are less prone to corrosion while cold welding creates smooth and strong joints.
- Metallic noise dissipation: The Audioquest Evergreen RCA cable features a noise dissipation system made of a metallic layer. This kind of noise dissipation technique keeps external radio frequencies away such that the cable delivers a signal free from noise.
Pros
- Its price range is great for its features
- Connectivity to mobile devices
- The cable looks great and delivers quality sound
- Sturdy and flexible
- The jack and plugs deliver a superior connection
Cons
- Fits too tightly and is not ideal for excessive plugging and unplugging
- Comes with a single input that’s only usable for 3.5mm jack mobile devices
- The jack may not go all the way through some extremely thick phone protective cases
Our Verdict
The Audioquest Evergreen RCA cable is ideal for anyone who wants to eliminate the issue of noise in lower-quality cables. It’s specially designed for quality sound but its tight fit is not ideal for frequent plugging and unplugging.
- Solid Long-Grain Copper (LGC) Conductors
- Double-Balanced Asymmetrical Geometry
- Cold-Welded Gold-Plated Rca Plugs
- Metal-Layer Noise-Dissipation System (NDS)
- Foamed-Polyethylene Insulation
6. KabelDirekt RCA Stereo Cable
KabelDirekt RCA cable stands out as a two-channel cable that delivers quality audio signals for the right and left audio channels. It’s ideal for connecting signals from any car audio receiver to the speakers or amplifier. Moreover, it is designed for affordability.
Features and Benefits of KabelDirekt RCA Cable
- Double shielded conductors: The KabelDirekt RCA cable is built with copper conductors that are double shielded. Double shielding enhances the ability of the cable to keep off electromagnetic and radio frequency interference, thereby delivering a cleaner signal.
- Oxygen-free copper: The core conductor of this cable comprises specially treated, oxygen-free copper. This type of copper has the ability to transfer low-frequency audio signals and allows for more conductivity than standard copper.
- Two male to two male plugs: This RCA cable comes with two male plugs on either end. The benefit is that the cable is bidirectional such that you can connect it either way to any standard output that has the left and right outputs.
- Gold plated plugs: The cable comes with high-quality, gold plated plugs. Gold plating adds protection to the connectors such that they are less susceptible to corrosion.
- Available in six sizes: With this brand, you can choose between six different sizes as needed, including 3, 6, 10, 15, 20, and 25 feet. This way, you can choose the length that fits your car’s audio system setup.
Pros
- Available in six different sizes
- Very affordable
- Connectors have a high-grade metallic casing
- Jacket is very flexible
- Marked for easier connectivity
Cons
- Cannot connect to mobile devices
- May slip off easily in high traffic areas
- The color marking is only on one side and not easily visible in dull lighting
Our Verdict
If you are searching for a quality, yet affordable RCA cable that can connect your car audio receiver or stereo to a speaker or amp, then you should add the KabelDirekt RCA cable in your shortlist. However, the connectors may slip off easily in high traffic areas but are ideal for plugging in and out often without any issue.
Need a really affordable yet high-performance RCA cable? Then check out the KabelDirekt RCA cable.
- Premium two-channel RCA audio cable: Professional audio quality RCA cable for premium left/right audio signal transfer from your home stereo, audio receiver, DVD, or Bluray player. Available in 6 convenient sizes ranging from 3-25 feet
- Pure copper core shielded audio cable: Our double shielded, pure copper core prevents EMI & RFI signal interference ensuring the highest quality audio transfer, without static or popping.
- 2x male to 2x male audio cable: Dual male cable connectors allow you to use the RCA audio cable with any standard stereo left/right output, providing crystal clear stereo sound and Hi-Fi audio for your home stereo or theater system.
- 24K gold plated connectors: KabelDirekt RCA cables feature professional quality 24k gold plated connectors which protect the cables from corrosion and ensure a premium connection for the best possible audio transfer year after year.
- 36 months manufacturer warranty
7. AmazonBasics RCA Cables
AmazonBasics RCA cable is built to connect either high or low frequencies. For instance, you can use it to connect to a low-frequency car subwoofer or a high-frequency car stereo. Since it comes with two male-to-two male connectors, it’s ideal for any HiFi car stereo with either left or right channels.
Features and Benefits
- Gold plated plugs: This cable features metallic gold plated plugs. Gold plating allows for enhanced resistance to corrosion since it is hard to oxidize a gold-plated surface.
- Colored plugs: The connectors are marked in red and white color on either end. The benefit of the colored markings on the connectors is to allow for easy and appropriate connections.
- Specially shielded: AmazonBasics RCA cable is shielded appropriately. The shielding eliminates noise in the signal, thereby allowing for the transmission of clear audio.
- Accepts both low and high-frequency signals: The cable connects to low frequency types of audio signals such as a car subwoofer and high frequency such as digital car stereo.
Pros
- The connectors fit into RCA ports just right
- Very affordable
- Colored connectors
- No distortion of sound
- Very sturdy
Cons
- Only available as 8 feet, which may be short for some speaker setup
- Looks relatively bulky
- It may not fit in extremely tight spots due to its thickness
Our Verdict
Car owners looking for an RCA cable that can connect to both low and high frequencies should consider the AmazonBasics RCA cable.
- IN THE BOX: (1) 8 foot 2-Male to 2-Male RCA audio stereo subwoofer cable; 23 AWG
- CRYSTAL CLEAR AUDIO: Enhances audio connections; ideal for home-entertainment and high-fidelity (HiFi) systems
- RCA INPUT/OUTPUT: 2 RCA output (connect to either L or R input) and 2 RCA input; input can be high frequency (digital audio) or low frequency (subwoofer)
- GOLD PLATED CONNECTORS: Corrosion-resistant 24K gold-plated full-metal connectors
- RELIABLE PERFORMANCE: Eliminates unwanted noise/feedback for pure, clear audio; minimal signal loss for reliably consistent audio
- COLOR-CODED COMPONENTS: Red/white color-marked connectors for quick, easy left-and-right hookups
8. UGREEN 3.5mm RCA Cable
Ugreen 3.5mm is specially built to connect mobile devices with 3.5mm jack support such as tablets, mobile phones, music players, and laptops to a car audio player. You simply connect the Ugreen 3.5mm jack to your portable device and connect the RCA connectors into your car audio receiver or amplifier.
Key Highlights and Benefits of UGREEN 3.5mm RCA Cable
- Gold plated plugs: Ugreen 3.5mm comes with one gold plated 3.5mm jack and two gold plated RCA connectors. Gold plating enhances their durability while still making the plugs less prone to issues of corrosion.
- Oxygen-free conductors: The cable is built with oxygen-free copper conductors. This type of copper allows for enhanced conductivity.
- Connectivity to mobile devices: This cable comes with a 3.5mm jack which connects to mobile devices with a 3.5mm audio port. The benefit is that you are able to play music from your mobile devices to your car audio.
- Slim 3.5mm jack: The Ugreen RCA cable comes with a slim 3.5mm jack. Its slim nature allows for effortless connection even with mobile devices that have thick protection covers.
- Soft jacket: The outer cover of this cable is made of a soft PVC cover. Its soft nature makes it flexible while still protecting the cable from damage.
Pros
- Connectivity to mobile devices
- Easily fits into mobile devices with protective covers
- Great audio quality
- Comes with a one year warranty
- Extremely affordable
Cons
- May wear out if twisted constantly
- Not ideal for excessive moving
- May shrink when used in an extremely cold environment
Our Verdict
If you have tried other 3.5mm to RCA cables and failed to fit well in your mobile device, then you should try the Ugreen 3.55mm RCA cable. It fits snugly into any mobile device even if it has a thick protective cover. However, it may get damaged sooner if moved or twisted constantly.
Why look any further if you need an affordable 3.5mm to RCA cable? Grab this Ugreen 3.5mm from the button below.
- 2RCA to 3.5mm Cable: UGREEN 3.5mm to 2 RCA stereo cable is suitable for plugging the 3.5mm connector into the headphone jack of your mobile device and the 2 RCA connector to the port on your sound system. This high-end 2RCA audio cable would provide you with a versatile connection for all your stereo audio needs
- Fantastic Audio Quality: Gold Plated connectors and copper provide maximums conductivity and durability, ensuring optimal stereo audio transmission. With the help of this 3.5 RCA audio cable, no longer suffer the radio frequency interference (RFI) and electromagnetic interference (EMI)
- Incredibly Durable: 10000+ bend lifespan & high flexible PVC jacket make 3.5 to RCA audio cable improve the durability and tangle free. This high-end 2RCA stereo adapter cables offer incredible audio clarity over all lengths to provide a versatile connection between hardware for all your stereo audio needs
- User Friendly Design: With super slim connector design, this UGREEN 2 Male RCA to 3.5mm cable could make a snug and secure connection with mobile devices in a case. There is no need to take off the protective cases from your smartphone, tablets
- Broad Compatibility: This 3.5mm to 2RCA Audio Auxiliary Stereo Y Splitter Cable is compatible with iPhone, iPod, iPad, MP3 players, CD players, laptops, tablets and any other digital device with a 3.5mm audio jack; and home audio systems, like amplifier or receiver with RCA jacks
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best RCA Cables for Car Audio
Choosing the best RCA cables for your car audio is not a complicated process. It’s quite simple if you know what to look for in the cables. There are five key factors you’ll need to consider when choosing the ideal type in the market. Here, your key concern should be about ensuring that no noise is introduced in your audio system upon installing the RCA cables. Here’re are key factors you should consider when making your choice:
Type of Shielding Used in RCA Cables
Generally, RCA cables consist of a conductor that carries signals from one car audio device to another. You will be using the cable alongside other electronic components and wires in your car. This means that the signal carried in the RCA cables will also run along with other signals or electric energy passing through other wires. Such external signals can interfere with the audio signal carried in your car audio RCA cable such that the delivered signal may be distorted or noisy.
To prevent this from happening, the RCA cable should have effective shielding. Thus, you should consider choosing a cable that is shielded against noise and electromagnetic interferences. The shielding should also protect the cable from external radio frequencies. In case the shielding used is extremely thin, your signal will suffer some loss in energy or gain external noise. Thus, consider a cable with thicker shielding, or better double shielding. Avoid cutting corners when it comes to shielding.
The Sturdiness of Connectors
Both sides of RCA cables have connectors. Some have one male 3.5mm jack pin to two RCA and others have two male to two male RCA. Whichever connector configuration you want, you should consider connectors that are sturdy enough to last longer. Thicker RCA connectors are more ideal for they give a tight connection for a car head unit or mobile device to the car amplifier or subwoofer.
When comparing different RCA cables, consider the ones that tend to have thicker connectors for they would give better contact than thinner ones. Thinner connectors tend to loosen up and lose contact. Tighter contact allows for better conductivity, thereby the quality of signal delivered is higher. Also, a tighter connection reduces noise at the point of contact.
Type of Conductor Used
Different brands of RCA cables use different standards and types of conductors. However, most RCA cables are made using copper as the core conductor. Copper is more suitable for transferring audio signals.
Nevertheless, copper comes in different standards. Some RCA cables use copper in its standard form while others use specially treated copper or copper mixed with other metals such as silver. Specially treated copper, such as copper which is free of oxygen, proves to be a better conductor than standard copper.
Thus, consider RCA cables with specially treated copper conductors for enhanced conductivity.
Cost of RCA Cables
It’s obviously good to consider the cost of RCA cables before making a purchase. However, never compromise the quality of the cable over cost. You should not really overpay, but the cost should match the quality of the cable.
Always go for a car audio RCA cable with the highest quality even if it means adding a few dollars. Thus, as you weigh your budget, consider the quality of what you are investing in to get the best deal.
Length of RCA Cables
RCA cables for car audio come in different lengths. The cable you choose should have sufficient length based on your car audio system and speaker setup. Thus, before choosing an RCA cable, determine how far your car amp or subwoofer is from the audio receiver.
Final Verdict on RCA Cables
Upon reading through this review, it’s clear that each and every RCA cable for car audio reviewed here comes with its own unique features. While some features are common between different RCA cables, each cable comes with an outstanding feature.
Also, these cables come with multiple benefits and a few shortcomings. Thus, each and every RCA cable reviewed here is worthy enough for consideration in your shortlist. If you need a cable to connect your mobile device to your car audio, there’re great choices listed here.
Also, if you need an RCA cable to connect your car audio to the car amp, you’ll also find great choices here. Most noteworthy, your choice should be based on the overall quality of the cable by considering factors such as the type of shielding, type of conductor, cost, length, and sturdiness of the connectors.
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Last update on 2022-07-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API