Furutech Audio Reference III XLR Balanced Interconnect
Best balanced interconnect for audiophiles seeking pristine, high-resolution sound reproduction.
Experience superior audio with the Furutech Audio Reference III XLR Balanced Interconnect. This high-end cable is engineered for exceptional clarity and powerful dynamics, featuring double-shielded Alpha-OCC conductors and Formula GC-303 modules to minimize EMI. Its air-foamed HDPE insulation reduces capacitance and vibration for an ultra-quiet soundstage. Equipped with rhodium-plated XLR connectors, it ensures optimal signal transfer for natural detail retrieval, a deeper bass foundation, and an engaging listening experience.
$1568.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
3
/ 5746
#3 in Audio & Video Cables
Price vs Category Average
+189%
Above average
Conductor
30
/ -strand Alpha OCC Copper
Who it's for
- Listeners prioritizing long-term durability and signal integrity
- Audiophiles seeking maximum resolution and micro-dynamic clarity
- Critical listeners demanding precise, three-dimensional soundstage imaging
Who should skip it
- Owners of entry-level systems that might reveal unwanted flaws
- Budget-conscious hobbyists seeking better value for their money
- Users with cramped equipment racks requiring flexible cable management
Performance breakdown
Signal Integrity
Alpha-OCC conductors ensure near-perfect signal transmission with minimal loss.
Noise Floor
Advanced shielding and GC-303 modules create a remarkably silent background.
Build Quality
Robust construction and premium materials reflect high-end Japanese engineering standards.
Connector Reliability
Rhodium-plated XLRs provide a secure, corrosion-resistant connection for long-term stability.
Dynamic Range
Low capacitance design preserves the full impact of complex musical transients.
Vibration Damping
Air-foamed insulation effectively mitigates micro-vibrations for a cleaner, more focused sound.
Key Specs
Conductor
30-strand Alpha OCC Copper
Insulation
30% air-foamed HDPE
Shielding
Double shield with Formula GC-303 modules
Jacket Material
Nylon yarn braid over PVC
Connector Type
XLR Male to XLR Female
Connector Plating
Rhodium
Length
1.2 meters (3.937 feet)
Characteristic Impedance
Approx 120 Ω at 100 MHz
Features
- Enhanced resolution and clarity
- Ultra-quiet soundstage
- Alpha cryogenic treatment
- Double-shielded construction
- Rhodium-plated XLR connectors
- Reduced capacitance and vibration
- Award-winning design
- High-end performance
What customers say
These interconnects are widely regarded as a reference standard, offering an immediate and significant sonic upgrade. Reviewers consistently highlight exceptional transparency and neutrality, allowing source components to reveal their true character. The soundstage is dramatically expanded and three dimensional, supported by superior micro-dynamics and effortless musical flow. Bass is deep and defined, while the treble remains smooth and extended. Physical construction using premium materials earns universal praise for robustness and aesthetic appeal. While positioned for serious audiophiles, the consensus is that the resulting performance justifies the investment, establishing these cables as a benchmark in high-end audio.
Know before you buy
Alpha-OCC copper is processed through a cryogenic and demagnetizing treatment to improve conductivity and signal purity. This results in a more transparent sound with better detail retrieval compared to standard copper cables.
Formula GC-303 is a specialized material that absorbs electromagnetic interference (EMI) generated by internal equipment components. By reducing this noise, the cable creates a quieter background, allowing subtle musical details to emerge more clearly.
Rhodium is an extremely hard, durable metal that provides excellent signal transfer and is highly resistant to corrosion. It is often preferred in high-end audio for its ability to deliver a very clean, neutral, and precise sound profile.
The 1.2-meter length is standard for connecting components placed on the same rack or in close proximity. If your equipment is located further apart, you may need to consider if this length provides enough slack for your specific cable management needs.
Air-foamed HDPE reduces the dielectric constant of the cable, which lowers capacitance. This helps maintain signal integrity and prevents the cable from altering the frequency response of your audio system.
Yes, the cable features a robust nylon yarn braid over a PVC jacket, which provides excellent protection against physical wear and tear. Its professional-grade construction is designed to withstand the rigors of frequent handling in studio or home listening environments.
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$1568