What is the primary purpose of the Pro-Ject Connect-IT E?

It is designed to connect a turntable to a phono stage or amplifier, specifically engineered to handle low-level phono signals while rejecting noise.

What is 'dual twisted pair' technology?

It is a construction method where two identical conductors for positive and negative signals are wrapped around each other to improve noise rejection.

Does this cable include a ground wire?

Yes, it features integrated ground leads to connect the turntable chassis to the ground terminal on an amplifier or phono preamp.

How long is the Pro-Ject Connect-IT E?

The cable has a fixed length of 1.23 metres (approximately 4 feet).

What kind of shielding does it use?

The cable utilizes a 100% foil shield to block electromagnetic and radio frequency interference.

Can I use this cable for a CD player or DAC?

While it uses RCA connectors, it is specifically optimised for phono applications; however, it will function as a high-quality line-level interconnect.

Will this cable eliminate hum in my turntable setup?

It is designed to reject EM and RF interference that causes hum, and its ground lead helps prevent ground loops, though it cannot fix mechanical hum from the turntable itself.

Is the shielding better than a standard RCA cable?

Yes, its 100% foil shield and twisted pair geometry offer superior rejection of interference compared to basic, unshielded, or poorly shielded consumer cables.

How much does the Pro-Ject Connect-IT E typically cost?

The typical price for this cable pair is approximately £45.

Is the cable sold as a single lead or a pair?

It is sold as a pair for stereo (Left and Right) connections.

What types of interference does the foil shield reject?

The foil shield is designed to reject both electromagnetic (EM) and radio frequency (RF) interference.

Does the Pro-Ject Connect-IT E use XLR connectors?

No, it uses standard RCA (phono) connectors, unlike professional audio cables such as the Studiospares Standard XLR.

Gear article

Pro-Ject Connect-IT E Stereo Phono Cable

The Pro-Ject Connect-IT E is a high-fidelity stereo RCA interconnect designed specifically for turntable applications. It features dual twisted pair technology and comprehensive foil shielding to eliminate electromagnetic and radio frequency interference.

Pro-Ject Connect-IT E Stereo Phono / RCA Cable with Ground Leads 1.23m (Pair)

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Overview

The Pro-Ject Connect-IT E is a purpose-built stereo RCA cable designed to facilitate the connection between a turntable and a phono preamplifier or integrated amplifier. Measuring 1.23 metres in length, this cable pair is engineered to handle the extremely low-level signals generated by phono cartridges, which are highly susceptible to external noise.

Design and Technology

The primary technological feature of the Connect-IT E is its 'dual twisted pair' construction. This configuration involves two identical conductors—one for the positive signal and one for the negative signal—that are tightly wrapped around one another. This internal geometry is a deliberate design choice intended to provide noise rejection capabilities that standard unbalanced coaxial cables cannot achieve.

To further protect the signal, the cable employs a 100% foil shield. This layer acts as a barrier against electromagnetic (EM) and radio frequency (RF) interference. In home environments, these types of interference are common sources of audible hum and buzz in high-gain audio circuits like phono stages.

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

Functional Features

Beyond its internal shielding, the Connect-IT E includes integrated ground leads. These leads are essential for turntable setups to equalise the potential between the turntable chassis and the amplifier, preventing ground loop hum. The connectors are designed for a secure fit, ensuring consistent electrical contact over time.

Target Audience

This cable is specifically suited for vinyl enthusiasts who are experiencing noise issues or those looking to upgrade from the basic 'in-the-box' cables supplied with entry-level turntables. Its design prioritises signal purity and noise floor reduction, making it an appropriate choice for systems where external interference is a concern.

Comparison to Alternatives

In the broader landscape of audio cabling, the Connect-IT E occupies a specialised niche compared to general-purpose cables. While products like the Gear4Music Essentials Dual Jack to RCA Cable are designed for line-level utility, the Connect-IT E is specifically shielded for phono-level signals. Unlike standard instrument cables such as the Ernie Ball P06049 or balanced XLR options like the Studiospares Standard range, the Connect-IT E focuses on the specific shielding and grounding requirements unique to unbalanced analogue playback systems.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the Pro-Ject Connect-IT E?: It is designed to connect a turntable to a phono stage or amplifier, specifically engineered to handle low-level phono signals while rejecting noise.
What is 'dual twisted pair' technology?: It is a construction method where two identical conductors for positive and negative signals are wrapped around each other to improve noise rejection.
Does this cable include a ground wire?: Yes, it features integrated ground leads to connect the turntable chassis to the ground terminal on an amplifier or phono preamp.
How long is the Pro-Ject Connect-IT E?: The cable has a fixed length of 1.23 metres (approximately 4 feet).
What kind of shielding does it use?: The cable utilizes a 100% foil shield to block electromagnetic and radio frequency interference.
Can I use this cable for a CD player or DAC?: While it uses RCA connectors, it is specifically optimised for phono applications; however, it will function as a high-quality line-level interconnect.
Will this cable eliminate hum in my turntable setup?: It is designed to reject EM and RF interference that causes hum, and its ground lead helps prevent ground loops, though it cannot fix mechanical hum from the turntable itself.
Is the shielding better than a standard RCA cable?: Yes, its 100% foil shield and twisted pair geometry offer superior rejection of interference compared to basic, unshielded, or poorly shielded consumer cables.
How much does the Pro-Ject Connect-IT E typically cost?: The typical price for this cable pair is approximately £45.
Is the cable sold as a single lead or a pair?: It is sold as a pair for stereo (Left and Right) connections.
What types of interference does the foil shield reject?: The foil shield is designed to reject both electromagnetic (EM) and radio frequency (RF) interference.
Does the Pro-Ject Connect-IT E use XLR connectors?: No, it uses standard RCA (phono) connectors, unlike professional audio cables such as the Studiospares Standard XLR.