Pro-Ject Phono DS miniXLR (f)/XLR (f)

A phono cable from the Connect it DS series that goes from the miniXLR format to full-size XLR, with female connectors at both ends, for balanced links between turntable and phono stage.

Phono DS miniXLR (f)/XLR (f): terminations and materials

Phono DS miniXLR (f)/XLR (f) joins a component with miniXLR sockets to one with traditional XLRs: every connector on the cable is female. It belongs to Pro-Ject's True Balanced family, intended for turntables carrying an MC cartridge or Pro-Ject's Pick it PRO Balanced, the only conditions in which balanced operation contributes anything. The cable is 1.23 m long.

The signal travels on 99.99% OFC copper, in two 0.2 mm² conductors of semi-symmetrical geometry with flexible cellular polyethylene insulation. Screening is entrusted to a helix of the same copper working together with a conductive sub-jacket loaded with carbon, while the outside is sheathed in TPE. At 90 pF the capacitance stays low, suited to phono duty.

On the connectors the signal pins are silver plated. Pro-Ject explains the choice by silver's conductivity, higher than that of gold, and points out that any oxidation is a cosmetic matter with no effect on the contact. The work is manual and carried out in Europe.

Specifications

• Connectors: female miniXLR at one end, female XLR at the other
• Length: 1.23 m
• Conductors: OFC copper, 99.99% purity
• Cross-section: 2 x 0.2 mm², semi-symmetrical geometry
• Capacitance: 90 pF over 1.23 m
• Insulation: flexible cellular polyethylene
• Screen: OFC copper helix over a carbon-loaded conductive sub-jacket
• Outer sheath: halogen-free thermoplastic elastomer (TPE)
• Contacts: silver-plated signal pins
• Balanced use: needs an MC cartridge or Pro-Ject's Pick it PRO Balanced