Ayre Codex & EX-8 / Pono / Sony PHA-3 Balanced Adaptor Cable
Best balanced adapter for audiophiles using high-end portable players.
Elevate your audio experience with this custom-built adaptor cable from Fog City Audio, designed for the discerning enthusiast. This cable bridges the gap between devices with dual 3.5mm outputs and balanced headphone inputs, ensuring pristine sound quality. It's compatible with popular gear like the Ayre Codex, EX-8, Sony PHA-3, and Pono Player. Crafted with premium Mogami Oxygen Free Copper and encased in a durable 550 Paracord jacket, it offers both reliability and style. Hand-assembled in San Francisco, it represents a commitment to quality and swift delivery.
$99.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
99
/ 2556
#99 in Audio & Video Cable Adapters & Couplers
Price vs Category Average
+28%
Above average
Cable Material
Mogami Oxygen Free Copper Cable
/ Mogami Oxygen Free Copper Cable
Who it's for
- Purists prioritizing high-quality materials and robust signal transfer
- Audiophiles using niche Ayre, Pono, or Sony source equipment
- Listeners seeking cleaner sound and improved channel separation
Who should skip it
- Users concerned about signal integrity or extra connection points
- Owners of standard audio equipment seeking universal compatibility
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for affordable cable solutions
Performance breakdown
Signal Integrity
Mogami oxygen-free copper ensures a clean, interference-free audio path.
Build Durability
The 550 paracord jacket provides rugged protection against daily wear.
Compatibility Range
Versatile connector options bridge niche balanced gear with standard outputs.
Ergonomic Design
Compact eight-inch length is perfect for portable, clutter-free desktop setups.
Craftsmanship Quality
Hand-assembled precision reflects superior attention to detail and construction.
Connection Stability
Secure, high-quality connectors maintain a firm grip for consistent performance.
Key Specs
Cable Material
Mogami Oxygen Free Copper Cable
Jacket Material
Durable 550 Paracord
End A Connector
Dual Male 3.5mm (1/8")
End B Connector Options
Female 4 Pin XLR, 4.4mm TRRRS, or 2.5mm TRRS
Default Cable Length
8 inches between connectors
Signal Type
Balanced
Connector Type End A
3.5mm Audio (Male)
Country of Origin
San Francisco, California
Features
- Enables balanced headphone connections
- Connects dual 3.5mm outputs to balanced inputs
- High-quality Mogami Oxygen Free Copper cable
- Durable 550 Paracord jacket
- Customizable connector options
- Hand-crafted in San Francisco
- Designed for audio enthusiasts
- Quick turnaround times
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise this specialized adaptor cable for its exceptional build quality and flawless execution of its primary function. Reviewers consistently note the robust construction and secure fit of the high-grade connectors, ensuring long term durability. The cable is celebrated for being acoustically transparent, allowing source equipment like the Pono Player or Sony PHA-3 to perform optimally without introducing noise or coloration. For users seeking true balanced output from these specific devices, this cable is considered an essential upgrade that unlocks full performance potential. Despite being a boutique accessory, the consensus is that it delivers significant value by solving a critical connectivity challenge with uncompromising quality and reliability.
Know before you buy
This cable is specifically designed for devices featuring dual 3.5mm outputs, such as the Ayre Codex, Ayre EX-8, Sony PHA-3, and the Pono Player. It allows you to connect these units to balanced headphone inputs.
Yes, Fog City Audio offers customization options for the output end. You can select between a female 4-pin XLR, a 4.4mm TRRRS, or a 2.5mm TRRS connector to match your specific headphone cable.
Using a balanced connection helps reduce noise and interference, providing a cleaner, more precise signal path. This is particularly beneficial for high-resolution audio equipment where signal integrity is paramount.
The cable measures 8 inches (0.67 feet) between the connectors. This length is optimized for portable use, keeping your setup tidy without unnecessary slack.
The cable is constructed using high-quality Mogami Oxygen Free Copper for optimal signal transmission. It is then encased in a 550 Paracord jacket, which provides robust protection against daily wear and tear.
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