What is the primary material used for the conductor?

The MXR Ribbon Patch Cable uses a high-grade oxygen-free copper (OFC) core. This material is chosen for its ability to maintain signal purity and reduce unwanted noise.

How long is this specific MXR cable?

This specific model is 1 foot in length. This makes it suitable for connecting pedals across different rows on a pedalboard or reaching a switcher.

What makes the 'Ribbon' design different from standard cables?

The Ribbon design refers to the flat, ultra-thin profile of the cable and its low-profile metal ends. This allows for much tighter spacing between pedals compared to bulky, traditional cables.

Does this cable come with a warranty?

Yes, MXR provides a limited lifetime warranty with this cable. This offers the user peace of mind regarding the long-term durability of the product.

Are the connectors on this cable metal or plastic?

The cable features low-profile metal ends. Metal construction is generally preferred for its durability and better shielding properties on stage.

Is this cable suitable for use as a main instrument cable?

No, at 1 foot long, it is intended strictly as a patch cable for connecting pedals. For a main instrument-to-amp connection, a longer cable like an Ernie Ball 10ft lead would be required.

How does the sound quality compare to standard patch cables?

It is designed to deliver superior tonality and ultra-low noise operation. The use of high-end materials ensures a more transparent sound than standard, budget cables.

Can this cable be used with bass guitars?

Yes, it is suitable for any instrument signal using 1/4 inch jacks, including electric guitars and bass guitars. The high-grade core ensures full frequency response.

What is the typical price range for this cable in the UK?

The typical price for a single 1-foot MXR Ribbon cable is approximately £10. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.

Is the outer jacket durable enough for touring?

Yes, the cable features a robust outer jacket designed specifically for stage use. It is built to be both thin for space-saving and durable for reliability.

How does this compare to a BNC antenna cable?

They are entirely different products; a BNC cable like the LD Systems WS100BNC10 is for wireless antennas, whereas the MXR is a 1/4 inch audio cable for instruments.

Does this cable help reduce hum in a pedalboard setup?

Yes, its ultra-low noise construction and shielding are designed to provide a pure signal. This helps minimize the interference and hum often found in complex pedal chains.

Gear article

MXR Ribbon Patch Cable (1 Foot)

The MXR Ribbon Patch Cable is a high-grade 1-foot guitar interconnect designed to provide superior tonality and ultra-low noise operation. Built with oxygen-free copper and low-profile metal ends, it is specifically engineered for space-efficient pedalboard integration.

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Overview

The MXR Ribbon Patch Cable is a specialised audio interconnect designed for musicians who require a combination of high-fidelity signal transfer and physical flexibility. Unlike standard cylindrical cables, the 'ribbon' profile and low-profile connectors allow for tighter spacing between effects pedals. It is marketed as a premium alternative to standard mass-market patch leads, focusing on durability and signal purity.

Design and Construction

The core of the cable is constructed from high-end oxygen-free copper (OFC). This material choice is significant as it reduces resistance and minimises signal degradation over the length of the cable. The exterior features a robust outer jacket designed to withstand the rigours of stage use.

A key design feature is the inclusion of flat, low-profile metal ends. These connectors are significantly slimmer than traditional molded or heat-shrink jacks, allowing pedals to be placed closer together on a pedalboard, effectively increasing the usable surface area for the player.

Studiospares Standard XLR (M) - XLR (F) Cable 60cm

Performance and Sound Character

MXR identifies this cable as an ultra-low noise component. By using high-grade shielding and OFC cores, the cable aims to deliver a 'pure yet powerful' sound. In practical terms, this means the cable avoids the high-frequency roll-off often associated with cheaper, high-capacitance cables. The result is a transparent signal path that preserves the original tone of the guitar and effects chain.

Target User and Applications

This cable is primarily suited for electric guitarists and bassists who use multi-pedal setups. Because it measures one foot in length, it is ideal for connecting pedals that are not immediately adjacent or for routing signals through a loop switcher. The durable construction and limited lifetime warranty make it a reliable choice for touring professionals as well as studio musicians who require consistent performance.

Market Comparisons

Within the wider market of audio connectivity, the MXR Ribbon Patch Cable sits alongside other specialised leads. While standard utility cables like the Studiospares Standard XLR or Gear4Music RCA cables serve general audio needs, the MXR Ribbon is a purpose-built instrument tool. Compared to standard 10ft instrument cables like those from Ernie Ball, the 1-foot MXR lead is focused purely on short-run pedalboard efficiency rather than long-distance mobility.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used for the conductor?: The MXR Ribbon Patch Cable uses a high-grade oxygen-free copper (OFC) core. This material is chosen for its ability to maintain signal purity and reduce unwanted noise.
How long is this specific MXR cable?: This specific model is 1 foot in length. This makes it suitable for connecting pedals across different rows on a pedalboard or reaching a switcher.
What makes the 'Ribbon' design different from standard cables?: The Ribbon design refers to the flat, ultra-thin profile of the cable and its low-profile metal ends. This allows for much tighter spacing between pedals compared to bulky, traditional cables.
Does this cable come with a warranty?: Yes, MXR provides a limited lifetime warranty with this cable. This offers the user peace of mind regarding the long-term durability of the product.
Are the connectors on this cable metal or plastic?: The cable features low-profile metal ends. Metal construction is generally preferred for its durability and better shielding properties on stage.
Is this cable suitable for use as a main instrument cable?: No, at 1 foot long, it is intended strictly as a patch cable for connecting pedals. For a main instrument-to-amp connection, a longer cable like an Ernie Ball 10ft lead would be required.
How does the sound quality compare to standard patch cables?: It is designed to deliver superior tonality and ultra-low noise operation. The use of high-end materials ensures a more transparent sound than standard, budget cables.
Can this cable be used with bass guitars?: Yes, it is suitable for any instrument signal using 1/4 inch jacks, including electric guitars and bass guitars. The high-grade core ensures full frequency response.
What is the typical price range for this cable in the UK?: The typical price for a single 1-foot MXR Ribbon cable is approximately £10. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
Is the outer jacket durable enough for touring?: Yes, the cable features a robust outer jacket designed specifically for stage use. It is built to be both thin for space-saving and durable for reliability.
How does this compare to a BNC antenna cable?: They are entirely different products; a BNC cable like the LD Systems WS100BNC10 is for wireless antennas, whereas the MXR is a 1/4 inch audio cable for instruments.
Does this cable help reduce hum in a pedalboard setup?: Yes, its ultra-low noise construction and shielding are designed to provide a pure signal. This helps minimize the interference and hum often found in complex pedal chains.