McIntosh
McIntosh CBA1M
Best balanced cable for audiophiles seeking pristine, noise-free sound reproduction.
Enhance the ultra-low noise performance of your McIntosh components with the McIntosh CBA1M Balanced Audio Cable. This cable is engineered with two balanced conductors and a separate ground, plus an additional fourth chassis ground, to effectively prevent interference and eliminate induced background noise. The design ensures pure music reproduction by separating the signal ground from the chassis ground, leading to an overall enhancement in sound quality. It features 22 AWG OFC conductors, low-density polyethylene insulation, and a durable PVC jacket with black nylon webbing for longevity and optimal signal integrity.
$500.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
1441
/ 5745
#1441 in Audio & Video Cables
Price vs Category Average
-8%
Below average
Conductor Configuration
Twisted Pair + Ground
/ Twisted Pair + Ground
Who it's for
- Audiophiles investing in long-term equipment durability
- Purists seeking maximum signal fidelity for high-end systems
- McIntosh owners wanting a cohesive, branded aesthetic
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious listeners prioritizing value over brand prestige
- Skeptics questioning the audible benefits of premium cabling
- Users requiring flexible lengths or non-XLR connectivity
Performance breakdown
Noise Rejection
Advanced grounding architecture effectively silences unwanted electromagnetic interference.
Signal Integrity
High-purity OFC conductors ensure a clean, transparent path for audio signals.
Build Durability
Rugged nylon webbing and PVC jacket provide excellent long-term physical protection.
Connector Quality
Gold-plated brass XLRs offer reliable, corrosion-resistant connections for high-end gear.
Grounding Precision
Separated signal and chassis grounds eliminate common ground loop hum issues.
Cable Flexibility
Robust shielding makes the cable somewhat stiff for tight equipment racks.
Key Specs
Conductor Configuration
Twisted Pair + Ground
Conductor Gauge
22 AWG
Conductor Material
OFC
Insulation
Low Density Polyethylene
Shielding
Copper Foil + 95% Coverage Copper Braid
Outer Jacket
PVC with Black Nylon webbing
Connector
Gold Plated Brass XLR
Cable Diameter
9mm
Features
- Enhances ultra-low noise performance of McIntosh components
- Utilizes two balanced conductors with separate ground
- Includes a fourth chassis ground to prevent interference
- Eliminates induced background noise for pure music
- Separates signal ground from chassis ground for enhanced sound quality
- Features 22 AWG OFC conductors for optimal signal transfer
- Durable PVC jacket with black nylon webbing
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the McIntosh CBA1M for its exceptional build quality and elegant design. Users frequently highlight the robust construction and premium materials, noting a sense of durability and refined craftsmanship. The aesthetic appeal, characteristic of McIntosh products, is also a recurring positive, contributing to a luxurious user experience. This product embodies the brand's commitment to superior engineering and sophisticated presentation.
Know before you buy
The fourth chassis ground is designed to separate the signal ground from the chassis ground. This isolation helps eliminate induced background noise and interference, resulting in a cleaner, more precise audio signal.
Yes, the CBA1M uses standard XLR connectors and can be used with any audio equipment that supports balanced XLR connections. However, it is specifically engineered to optimize the noise floor of McIntosh components.
The cable features 22 AWG Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) conductors for efficient signal transfer. It is shielded with a combination of copper foil and a 95% coverage copper braid to protect against external electromagnetic interference.
No, this cable is not directional. You can connect it in either orientation without affecting the signal integrity or performance.
The cable is built for longevity with a robust PVC jacket reinforced by black nylon webbing. This construction provides excellent protection against physical wear while maintaining the flexibility needed for cable management.
Still have a question?
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