Gear article
Fender Tom DeLonge To the Stars Instrument Cable
The Fender Tom DeLonge To the Stars Instrument Cable is a signature 5.5-metre (18.6-foot) shielded lead designed for electric guitar and bass players. Finished in a distinctive Graffiti Yellow, it combines professional-grade interference rejection with a bold aesthetic inspired by the Blink-182 guitarist's signature gear.
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The Fender Tom DeLonge To the Stars Instrument Cable is a high-performance audio lead developed as part of Fender's artist-inspired accessory line. At a length of 5.5 metres (approximately 18.6 feet), it provides sufficient reach for most stage and studio environments. The cable is defined by its vibrant Graffiti Yellow PVC jacket, a direct visual reference to the finish found on Tom DeLonge's signature Fender Stratocaster and Starcaster models. It is priced at approximately GBP 28, positioning it as a mid-tier instrument cable that balances cosmetic appeal with technical reliability.
Construction and Key Features
The cable is built with a focus on durability and signal integrity. Key technical specifications include:
- Outer Jacket: A 6.5mm diameter PVC sleeve that is designed to be tough enough for stage use while remaining flexible for home recording and tight pedalboard setups.
- Shielding: It utilizes 90% Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) spiral shielding. This construction is essential for reducing electromagnetic interference and unwanted noise, ensuring the audio signal remains clean.
- Connectors: The cable features standard nickel-plated connectors, which offer reliable contact and resistance to corrosion over repeated use.
Sound Character
As a passive instrument cable, the primary goal of the To the Stars model is transparency. By employing high-quality OFC shielding, the cable minimizes the hum and buzz often associated with high-gain signal paths. While the cable does not 'colour' the sound in the traditional sense, its ability to reject interference ensures that the natural frequency response of the guitar and amplifier is maintained without degradation over the 5.5-metre distance.
User Suitability
This cable is primarily aimed at two groups: fans of Tom DeLonge and players who require high-visibility gear. The Graffiti Yellow finish serves a practical purpose on dark stages, making the cable easier to identify and less prone to being stepped on. It is suitable for guitarists and bassists who need a reliable, medium-length lead for live performances or studio sessions where a 'standout' look is desired to match their instrument's aesthetic.
Comparison to Alternatives
When compared to standard utilitarian leads, such as the Studiospares Standard XLR or Gear4Music Essentials cables, the Tom DeLonge signature model offers a more specific aesthetic and a thicker 6.5mm outer diameter. While more affordable options like the Ernie Ball P06049 10ft cable offer similar instrument connectivity, they lack the specific length and signature branding of the Fender model. Unlike specialised BNC antenna cables or DMX lighting cables from brands like Adam Hall or LD Systems, this Fender cable is strictly designed for high-impedance unbalanced audio signals.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the length of this Fender Tom DeLonge cable?
- The cable is 5.5 metres long, which is approximately 18.6 feet. This length provides a good balance between mobility on stage and maintaining signal strength.
- What colour is the To the Stars cable?
- The cable is finished in a vibrant 'Graffiti Yellow'. This colour is intended to match the aesthetic of Tom DeLonge’s signature series instruments.
- What type of shielding does this cable use?
- It features 90% Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) spiral shielding. This helps to reduce noise and interference for a cleaner signal path.
- What is the diameter of the cable's outer jacket?
- The outer jacket has a diameter of 6.5mm. This thickness provides durability for stage use while maintaining enough flexibility for easy handling.
- Are the connectors gold-plated or nickel-plated?
- The connectors on this specific model are nickel-plated. Nickel provides a reliable, durable connection for everyday musical applications.
- Is this cable suitable for use with an electric bass?
- Yes, it is a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable suitable for both electric guitars and bass guitars. The shielding ensures that the low-end frequencies remain clean.
- Can I use this cable for studio recording?
- Yes, the OFC shielding and flexible 6.5mm jacket make it well-suited for studio environments. It helps cut down on interference from other electronic equipment.
- How does the price compare to other instrument cables?
- It typically retails for around GBP 28. This puts it in the mid-range category, offering a signature aesthetic and better shielding than basic entry-level leads.
- Is this cable part of a specific artist collection?
- Yes, it is part of the Fender Tom DeLonge signature line. It is designed to complement his To the Stars brand and signature guitar models.
- Does the Graffiti Yellow finish serve a functional purpose?
- Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the bright yellow colour makes the cable highly visible on dark stages. This can help prevent tripping or accidental unplugging.
- Can this be used as a speaker cable for an amplifier head?
- No, this is a shielded instrument cable intended for low-level signals. It should not be used to connect an amplifier head to a speaker cabinet, as that requires unshielded speaker cable.
- How flexible is the 6.5mm outer diameter?
- Despite its 6.5mm thickness, Fender has designed the jacket to be flexible. It is manageable enough for tight setups or looping through a guitar strap.
