2. tech-talk
  3. 1361210094

Upscale RCA Jacks - McIntosh

Does anyone know why McIntosh often uses the bottom-of-the-line RCA jacks on some very nice pieces of equipment? Generally, I avoid buying anything that does not have the nicer jacks on it. Have I ever actually heard the difference between plain old jacks and expensive upscale jacks? Not that I am aware of.

One would think that McIntosh would use the better jacks, if only for psychological impact. Is there a school of thought that believes that the simple jacks might actual be the equal of the upscale ones - or perhaps even better?
poetcatullus
xiekitchen
821 posts
 
Rega does the same thing.. the el cheapo jacks even on the Saturn.. I think they figure "it doesn't sonically make a difference" ??
poetcatullus OP
53 posts
 
Even if it does not sonically make a difference; sometimes the more expensive jacks actually provide a more secure connection when the cables are heavy and/or stiff.
mesaboogie
15 posts
 
cheap doesnt mean bad. there are too many other factors more important in choosing a component rather than if they use the latest trendy part that people pretend they can/will hear a difference in.
apachef1
164 posts
 
I agree, I don't think the "better" jacks will sound any better or worse, The better jacks are secure to the equipment panel and will not break away from tight or heavy interconnects. I have damaged a few cheap rca jacks with tight rca male interconnects by pulling off the outer gold female cap with the interconnect.
theo's avatar
theo
2,706 posts
 
I have owned many peices of Mc gear and have never had any jack or connector fail. I have had other brands that repeatedly broke the RCA jacks as the plastic became brittle. But as far as sound quality, I really think continuity is the goal. Some say Gold coating inhibits continuity but resists corrosion. As long as it doesn't break, I guess it is doing it's job.
More to discover