A/V Interconnect Cable Lengths

[skipsterut]

I have read a number of threads that deal with speaker cable length, but I am wondering about the interconnect cables. Since they come in fixed lengths 3', 6', etc. and the incremental cost difference is small, I tend to go for a longer length "just to be safe" and to allow for future reconfiguration, etc. So if I could get by with a 3' cable my inclination is to just buy the 6' cable for the few extra bucks it costs.

But I have read in other threads that cables should be kept separate from power lines, not be in a jumble, etc. to minimize EMI. So I assume that EM signal pickup and EMI is an issue to be reckoned with when hooking up a system.

So the question comes down to -- if I am a good boy and keep the cables well organized and away from power (as much as I can) does it make any difference if I use a 6' cable instead a 3' cable? -- or a 10' cable in stead of a 6' cable? -- you get the idea.

 

[MDS]

So the question comes down to -- if I am a good boy and keep the cables well organized and away from power (as much as I can) does it make any difference if I use a 6' cable instead a 3' cable? -- or a 10' cable in stead of a 6' cable? -- you get the idea.

The answer comes down to NO.

3', 6', 12' are not crtical distances. It will not make one whit of difference for analog audio, coax digital or optical digital cables. There are specific length restrictions for things like DVI and HDMI but 3'-12' is alot shorter than those restrictions. You may experience some issues with very long component video runs, but again in the lengths you are talking about it won't be a problem at all.

P.S. I also usually choose the 6' when a 3' would suffice because it is a giant PIA to pull out the unit with such a short cable and be able to see the back side clearly.

 

[nibhaz]

When it's close go long.

From an RFI, EMI standpoint these lengths are not that significant. If you go with a longer cable you'll have more flexibility with the placement of your components. However, if the three foot cable reaches with a little length to spare I would go with three foot cable. If you go with a longer cable it can become a pain in the a$$ to keep the extra length out of sight and away from power cables. This is especially true if you use the trunk method discussed here.

 

[skipsterut]

Thanks. Pretty much what I thought. Glad to have it confirmed by more experienced audioholics.