Gear article
Boss 6" / 15cm Patch Cable 3 Pack
The Boss 6" / 15cm Patch Cable 3 Pack is a set of premium instrument interconnects designed specifically for connecting guitar effects pedals. Engineered for signal purity and space efficiency, these cables feature oxygen-free copper centres and 24K gold-plated connectors.
See live pricesBackground and Design
Boss, a division of the Roland Corporation, is well-established as a industry leader in guitar effects and accessories. This 3-pack of patch cables is designed to meet the specific requirements of modern pedalboard setups. Unlike standard instrument cables intended for longer runs, these 15cm (6 inch) cables are specifically tailored for short-distance connections, reducing cable clutter and ensuring a tidy signal path.
Technical Features
The construction of these cables emphasises signal integrity and durability. Key technical specifications include:
- Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC): Utilised for the core wire to transmit signals without degradation or interference.
- 24K Gold-Plated Connectors: The jacks are plated in 24K gold, which provides superior conductivity and prevents corrosion over time, ensuring a reliable connection for the life of the product.
- Shielding: The design is engineered to minimise noise interference, allowing for a crisp and clear sonic output.
Sound Character
The primary objective of the Boss patch cable is transparency. By using high-quality copper and gold connectors, the product is engineered to deliver a 'pure' signal. This results in a clear sound that accurately reflects the output of the instrument and the connected effects pedals without adding significant noise or colouring the tone.
Comparison to Alternatives
While brands like Studiospares offer utility-focused patch cables, such as the Standard XLR 30cm or 60cm variants, Boss focuses on the 1/4 inch jack standard required for pedalboards. Unlike longer consumer cables such as the Ernie Ball 10ft instrument cable, these short patch leads are designed exclusively for close-proximity connections. For users requiring specific connector types, alternatives like the Neutrik right-angled XLR or Jack adaptors are available, but the Boss pack provides a ready-made solution for standard 1/4 inch TS connections.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary use for the Boss 6" Patch Cable?
- These cables are designed to connect guitar effects pedals located close to each other on a pedalboard. Their short 15cm length helps to keep signal paths short and hardware layouts organised.
- How many cables are included in a single pack?
- Each pack contains exactly three individual 6-inch (15cm) cables. This allows guitarists to connect up to four pedals in a chain.
- What material is used for the cable conductors?
- The cables are manufactured using oxygen-free copper (OFC) wire. This material is chosen for its ability to transmit signals accurately and maintain high levels of clarity.
- What are the benefits of the 24K gold-plated connectors?
- The gold plating ensures excellent electrical conductivity and provides high resistance to corrosion. This prevents the connectors from degrading over time, even with frequent use.
- Are these cables shielded against noise?
- Yes, they are specifically engineered to block noise interference and provide a pure signal. This results in a crisp, clear sound without unwanted buzz or hum.
- What is the physical length of each cable in this pack?
- Each cable measures 15 centimetres, which is approximately 6 inches. This is a standard size for adjacent pedal connections.
- Are these cables suitable for connecting a guitar to an amplifier?
- While they would technically function, their 15cm length makes them impractical for this purpose. They are much better suited for internal pedalboard connections.
- How does the sound character of these cables compare to standard cables?
- The cables are designed for maximum transparency. Because of the quality of the copper and the gold plating, they aim to deliver the signal without altering the tone.
- Can these cables be used for DMX or lighting applications?
- No, these are standard 1/4 inch instrument cables. Professionals should use specific products like the Adam Hall 5 STAR Neutrik DMX 5-Pin Lighting Cable for those tasks.
- Do these cables feature right-angled or straight connectors?
- These cables typically feature compact connectors designed to maximise space on a pedalboard, allowing pedals to be placed closer together.
- Are they compatible with pedals from brands other than Boss?
- Yes, they use standard 1/4 inch jack connectors. They are compatible with virtually any guitar effects pedal, regardless of the manufacturer.
- What is the typical price for this 3-pack in the UK?
- The typical price for the Boss 6" / 15cm Patch Cable 3 Pack is approximately £26. This reflects its status as a premium accessory product.
