What is the primary purpose of the MXR TRS Ribbon Patch Cable?

It is designed to connect audio devices that require a balanced or stereo signal via 1/4 inch TRS jacks. It is commonly used on pedalboards or in studio racks where space is limited.

What does the 'Ribbon' design refer to?

The ribbon design refers to the flat, ultra-thin profile of the cable. This allows it to be routed easily through tight spaces and reduces the footprint compared to traditional round cables.

What materials are used in the core of the cable?

The cable features an oxygen-free copper (OFC) core. This material is chosen for its ability to deliver superior tonality and ultra-low noise performance.

How long is this specific MXR patch cable?

This specific model is 1 foot (1ft) in length, which is approximately 30 centimetres. This makes it ideal for connecting adjacent units on a board.

Are the connectors on this cable bulky?

No, the cable features low-profile metal ends. These are designed to take up as little room as possible, allowing for pedals or rack units to be placed closer together.

Is the MXR TRS Ribbon Patch Cable durable enough for touring?

Yes, it is constructed with a robust outer jacket and high-grade metal ends. MXR designs these cables specifically to withstand the demands of stage use.

Does this cable come with any protection or guarantee?

Yes, the manufacturer includes a limited lifetime warranty with the cable. This provides peace of mind regarding the product's long-term reliability.

Can I use this cable for a standard electric guitar into an amplifier?

While it will function, it is not ideal for this purpose as it is only 1ft long and a TRS cable. A standard TS instrument cable like the Ernie Ball P06049 is more appropriate for that application.

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

The typical price range for the MXR TRS Ribbon Patch Cable 1ft is approximately £14.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.

Does this cable reduce signal noise?

Yes, the use of high-end materials and an oxygen-free copper core ensures ultra-low noise operation. This helps maintain a pure signal throughout the signal chain.

Is this cable suitable for stereo connections?

Yes, because it is a TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) cable, it can carry a stereo signal. This makes it suitable for pedals with stereo inputs and outputs.

How does the ribbon design compare to a standard patch cable?

The ribbon design is much thinner and flatter than standard round cables. This makes it easier to manage cable routing and helps save significant space on a crowded pedalboard.

Gear article

MXR TRS Ribbon Patch Cable 1ft

The MXR TRS Ribbon Patch Cable is a high-grade 1ft signal lead designed for interconnecting audio equipment with Tip-Ring-Sleeve (TRS) balanced or stereo requirements. Utilising an oxygen-free copper core and a low-profile flat design, it is engineered to provide ultra-low noise signal transmission while conserving space on professional pedalboards and racks.

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Background and Construction

The MXR TRS Ribbon Patch Cable represents a shift in modern interconnect design, prioritising a slim form factor without compromising signal integrity. While traditional round cables can be cumbersome in tight spaces, the 'ribbon' design allows the cable to sit flat against surfaces. The construction features high-end materials, most notably an oxygen-free copper (OFC) core, which is standard in premium audio cables to ensure maximum conductivity and resistance to corrosion.

Technical Features

The cable is built for professional stage and studio environments. Key features include:

Oxygen-Free Copper Core: Delivers a pure signal path and ultra-low noise operation.
Low-Profile Metal Ends: The slimline connectors allow for close placement of hardware, essential for modern pedalboard layouts.
Robust Outer Jacket: A durable sleeve protects the internal wiring from the rigours of touring and frequent repositioning.
Lifetime Warranty: MXR provides a limited lifetime warranty, indicating a high level of confidence in the product's longevity.

Sound Character

Described by the manufacturer as providing a 'pure yet powerful sound', the MXR Ribbon cable is designed to be transparent. By using high-grade materials that facilitate ultra-low noise, the cable aims to deliver superior tonality compared to standard generic patch cables. It is intended to preserve the natural character of the source instrument or processor without adding unwanted coloration or interference.

Applications and Alternatives

This 1ft TRS cable is specifically suited for connecting equipment that requires balanced signals or stereo paths, such as modern digital effect pedals with TRS inputs/outputs, or linking rack gear.

In the wider market of interconnects, it sits alongside various solutions. While the Ernie Ball P06049 offers a longer 10ft length for instrument-to-amp connections, the MXR Ribbon is a specialised short-run patch solution. For users requiring different terminations, alternatives include the Studiospares Standard XLR for microphone-level signals or the Neutrik NA2MP adaptor for converting between XLR and 1/4 inch jacks.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the MXR TRS Ribbon Patch Cable?: It is designed to connect audio devices that require a balanced or stereo signal via 1/4 inch TRS jacks. It is commonly used on pedalboards or in studio racks where space is limited.
What does the 'Ribbon' design refer to?: The ribbon design refers to the flat, ultra-thin profile of the cable. This allows it to be routed easily through tight spaces and reduces the footprint compared to traditional round cables.
What materials are used in the core of the cable?: The cable features an oxygen-free copper (OFC) core. This material is chosen for its ability to deliver superior tonality and ultra-low noise performance.
How long is this specific MXR patch cable?: This specific model is 1 foot (1ft) in length, which is approximately 30 centimetres. This makes it ideal for connecting adjacent units on a board.
Are the connectors on this cable bulky?: No, the cable features low-profile metal ends. These are designed to take up as little room as possible, allowing for pedals or rack units to be placed closer together.
Is the MXR TRS Ribbon Patch Cable durable enough for touring?: Yes, it is constructed with a robust outer jacket and high-grade metal ends. MXR designs these cables specifically to withstand the demands of stage use.
Does this cable come with any protection or guarantee?: Yes, the manufacturer includes a limited lifetime warranty with the cable. This provides peace of mind regarding the product's long-term reliability.
Can I use this cable for a standard electric guitar into an amplifier?: While it will function, it is not ideal for this purpose as it is only 1ft long and a TRS cable. A standard TS instrument cable like the Ernie Ball P06049 is more appropriate for that application.
What is the typical price for this cable in the UK?: The typical price range for the MXR TRS Ribbon Patch Cable 1ft is approximately £14.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
Does this cable reduce signal noise?: Yes, the use of high-end materials and an oxygen-free copper core ensures ultra-low noise operation. This helps maintain a pure signal throughout the signal chain.
Is this cable suitable for stereo connections?: Yes, because it is a TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) cable, it can carry a stereo signal. This makes it suitable for pedals with stereo inputs and outputs.
How does the ribbon design compare to a standard patch cable?: The ribbon design is much thinner and flatter than standard round cables. This makes it easier to manage cable routing and helps save significant space on a crowded pedalboard.