Did you recently upgrade your car’s stereo system but the sound quality is not as expected? The culprit could be the low-quality cables included with your stereo system. Thus, for enhanced sound quality, your system demands the top RCA cables tailored for car audio.
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RCA cables carry audio signals from the source unit (car stereo, iPod, etc.) to your amplifier, subwoofer, and speakers. High-quality RCA cables preserve the detailed and dynamic sound of the original audio recording. On the other hand, poorly-made wires are prone to frequency limitations; that’s why RCA cables can make a difference in audio.
I’ve compiled this review with the best RCA cables I could find on the market. Read on to find out the top choices for focused and involved sound.
Best RCA Cables for Car Audio Reviews
Skar Audio 17- ft. 2-Channel Twisted Pair RCA Interconnect Cable
Skar Audio has some of the best car audio equipment on the market. This brand brings excellent value to their products such that they are high-grade but affordable at the same time. Looking at this particular pair of RCA interconnect cables, you will find it incredibly useful for a high-performance setup.
These RCA cables feature Twisted Pair Technology for clean audio. They reject noise and provide maximum signal transfer, which preserves the quality of your system’s audio. Skar Audio also uses oxygen-free copper (OFC) connectors to pass signals accurately. Furthermore, OFC conductors run cool and are more resistant to shorts.
This RCA interconnect cable is 17 ft. long, meaning you can reach the head unit and the amps even with crazy routing. The max flex jacket provides extra flexibility, which makes installation fast. Not to mention, the cable won’t break when you bend it.
Pros
- Tight connection with precision-machined ends
- Silver-coated copper conductor
- 17 ft. long
- Multi-strand copper shielding
- Simple to install
Cons
- Lack two separate shields
- Short split-off limits flexibility
Verdict:
Get incredible sound quality with these Skar Audio RCA interconnect cables. This pair is a cheap option that delivers high versatility, high conductivity, and above all, simple installation.
Skar Audio 17- ft. 2-Channel Twisted Pair RCA Interconnect Cable
Read more: Skar Audio Reviews 2022
Amazon Basics 2-Male to 2-Male RCA Audio Stereo Subwoofer
Are you looking for very flexible RCA cables that fit snugly? Amazon Basics is the brand to check out. You can pull these cables apart to have two separate cables without worrying about damaged wires. Even better, they don’t have any type of molding, so you won’t need any tools to separate them.
Amazon Basics RCA cables feature gold-plated connectors for corrosion resistance. Moreover, they offer a tight connection with all your components. Still, you get reliable performance thanks to their double shielding that runs the entire length of these cables. As such, they don’t pick up interferences that can ruin your listening experience.
These cables are 15 ft. long and are also color-coded for easy installation. Anyone can set them up, even if it’s your first time. Besides, they are designed for high and low-frequency signals, so you can pair them with your subwoofer and stereo units.
Pros
- Color-coded
- Corrosion-resistant connectors
- Durable male connectors
- Double shielded
- Proper connection pressure
- Long-lasting PVC exterior
Cons
- Not ideal for high-end gear
Verdict:
Amazon Basics RCA cables are the best match for routing a long connection. Thanks to the two male-to-two male connectors, they are also ideal for a HiFi car stereo. Go on and invest in this pair to revel in its benefits.
Amazon Basics 2-Male to 2-Male RCA Audio Stereo Subwoofer
FosPower 2 RCA M/M Stereo Audio Cables
FosPower 2 RCA M/M stereo cables are popular composite RCA cables owing to their high-grade build. Firstly, these cables prevent any unwanted electrical noise because they have good insulation. They have both braided copper shielding and aluminum foil to guard against radio frequency and electromagnetic noise interference.
Secondly, FosPower uses 24K gold-plated connectors, which is more conductive than copper or silver. The coating is also corrosion-resistant, and it won’t lose luster over time. Further, they come with a polyethylene foam dielectric insulator to seal the wires from moisture while minimizing signal loss.
Lastly, FosPower RCA cables are 15ft long and feature a PVC jacket. Besides providing adequate coverage inside a vehicle, you can bend or split the wires for a customized installation.
Pros
- Extra shielding from aluminum foil
- Synthetic PF insulator for best audio
- Available in multiple lengths
- Tin-coated copper core prevents oxidation
- Cables can be split
Cons
- Sleeve quality could be better
- onnectors feel light
Verdict:
FosPower RCA cables reduce noise significantly to produce high-fidelity audio. Whether you have a cheap or high-end setup, you will love using them.
FosPower 2 RCA M/M Stereo Audio Cables
Elite Audio Premium Series 4 Channel RCA Interconnects
The Elite Audio Premium Series 4 Channel RCA Interconnects feature four male to four male audio cables. This cable is suitable for a conventional stereo left/right output. The best thing is that it allows your music signals to flow freely between your radio or iPod without any noise.
Elite Audio Premium Series uses oxygen-free copper; hence no impurities will raise the cable’s resistance to a signal’s flow. What’s more, it has both copper braiding and aluminum foil shielding. As such, it can block RFI and EMI signals that can prevent you from listening to perfect low and high-frequencies.
The overall build quality of this cable is impressive, seeing that the connectors are made of brass copper. I like how well the connectors are machined since they never come loose, even if you’re driving on a rough road in your truck. The rotational locking clamps are also vital for a premium connection and prevent corrosion.
Pros
- Maximum efficiency
- Improved conductivity with OFC copper conductors
- Eliminate humming from a subwoofer
- Quality protective sleeve
- Available in four lengths
Cons
- A little too tight – will need twisting
- Gauge could be thicker
Verdict:
Elite Audio Premium Series 4 Channel RCA Interconnects are the real deal for trucks and high-performance vehicles. Their quality construction can resist just about any road shock and vibrations that could cause a loose connection. Combined with the double shielding, you have a balanced frequency response.
Elite Audio Premium Series 4 Channel RCA Interconnects
JSAUX RCA Cable 3.5mm Male to 2 RCA Male
This JSAUX cable is the cheapest, decent-quality RCA cable you can find for your vehicle. It is designed with two male RCA ends and one 3.5mm connector. With that in mind, it’s going to be ideal for a car amp with two RCA inputs and a speaker or iPod, smartphone, and other audio sources with a 3.5mm audio port.
This cable provides the ultimate flexibility due to the black and silver nylon mesh braided jacket. This jacket protects the wires from damage no matter the number of times you flex and bend the cable. Besides, you can easily bend it around your car during an installation.
The RCA connectors are gold-plated and feature a Y splitter. With an oxygen-free copper core that’s double-shielded, you can be sure of an interference-free connection.
Pros
- Dual-shielding
- Gold-plated connectors
- Flexible braided jacket
- Great for attaching cell units
- Pure copper wire core
Cons
- Mismatched color ends
- It fits loosely on some gadgets
Verdict:
Bring your portable system to your car with the JSAUX RCA cable. The single male-to-male RCA adapter will connect your car amp, speakers, or car receiver to your smartphone, tablet, or mp3. Thus, you no longer have to wish you could play your favorite playlist in your car.
JSAUX RCA Cable 3.5mm Male to 2 RCA Male
Rockford Fosgate Twisted Pair 6 ft. Signal Cable
If you’re into hip hop or any music with deep bass, you’ll like using the Rockford Fosgate Twisted Pair RCA in your car’s system. Its twisted pair design produces a clean audio signal by canceling noise. Hence, all low and high frequencies are accurate.
This cable boasts an oxygen-free copper core to enhance conductivity and eliminate chances of corrosion. In addition, the connectors are platinum-plated, which provides the best protection against rust and scratches. With a frosted, rubber outer shield, this cable does not pick up dust, plus it remains flexible for different types of installations.
The Rockford Fosgate Twisted Pair cable is 6ft. long but is available in other lengths up to 20 ft. Thus, it’s easy to connect your subwoofer in the trunk to the car radio. It is also good with an aftermarket system with your external amp.
Pros
- Can be split
- Split center pin secures cables
- Reject EMI and RFI interference
- Durable and flexible frosted shield
Cons
- Insulation could be better
- Insulation could be better
Can cause humming in closely located subwoofers
Verdict:
Rockford Fosgate Twisted Pair 6ft. Signal Cable is one of the best quality RCA cables you will find under $10. This product is for any audiophile who wants a good RCA for their bass subwoofer and amplifier.
Rockford Fosgate Twisted Pair 6 ft. Signal Cable
KabelDirekt 2 RCA to 2 RCA Cable
Rev up your car’s stereo with the KabelDirekt 2 RCA to 2 RCA Cable. While it won’t make your bass deeper, it allows you to listen to high-fidelity audio. This two-channel cable will fit your vehicle’s receiver into your amp or subwoofer. You’ll like that the copper conductors are double-shielded to keep off electromagnetic and radio frequency interference.
Besides, the core is oxygen-free copper to maintain a clean signal. And did I mention that you can connect both digital and analog audio kits? This cable allows a wide frequency bandwidth thanks to its 75-ohm impedance. Furthermore, it can deliver audio over 5.1 channels for the perfect surround sound.
Installing this cable is a breeze since it’s long for easy routing. Lastly, the gold-plated connectors fit snugly and contribute to crisp sound signals.
Pros
- Durable PVC jacket
- Double-shielded
- Pure copper core
- Can suit professional use
- Can be pulled apart
Cons
- Slim plugs may not fit some devices
- Feels too stiff
Verdict:
KabelDirekt 2 RCA to 2 RCA Cable is the perfect fit for a car with all sorts of devices. It isolates and rejects noise and signal interferences, so you don’t have to disconnect mobile data when driving. It’s a steal for the audio upgrade that you receive.
KabelDirekt 2 RCA to 2 RCA Cable
Best RCA Cables for Car Audio: Comparison Chart
| Compatible Device | Conductor Materials | Type of Shielding | Connector Materials | Length of the Cable | |
| Skar Audio Twisted Pair | Car Amplifiers | Oxygen-free copper | Braided copper | Silver plating | 17 ft. |
| Amazon Basics 2 Male to 2 Male RCA Cables | Low-frequency Subwoofer | Copper | Braided copper and foil | 24K gold plating | 15 ft. |
| FosPower 2 RCA M/M Stereo Audio Cables | Amps and subwoofers | Tin-coated copper | Braided copper and aluminum foil | 24K gold plating | 15 ft. |
| Elite Audio Premium Series 4 Channel RCA Interconnects | Amps and subwoofers | Oxygen-free copper | Braided copper and aluminum foil | Brass-coated copper | 15 ft. |
| JSAUX RCA Cable 3.5mm Male to 2 RCA Male | Smartphone, mp3, iPod, etc. to an amp, subwoofer, or car stereo | Oxygen-free copper | Braided copper and aluminum foil | 24K Gold-plating | 6.6 ft. |
| Rockford Fosgate Twisted Pair 6ft. Signal Cable | Amps and subwoofers | Oxygen-free copper | Braided copper and aluminum foil | Platinum plating | 6 ft. |
| KabelDirekt 2 RCA to 2 RCA Cable | Amps and subwoofers | Oxygen-free copper | Braided copper and aluminum foil | Gold-plating | 15 ft. |
Read more: Car audio wire type, color & diagram: The ultimate guide
How to Buy the Best RCA Cables for Car Audio
RCA cables are not built equal. Here are the features to consider before putting down your money.
Type of Shielding Used in RCA Cables
Cables use copper braiding to guard against radio frequency interference (RFI). However, the copper woven mesh does not offer 100% coverage. That’s why companies add aluminum foil because it also blocks electromagnetic signals. Therefore, double-shielded cables produce better audio than those with only a copper woven shield.
The Sturdiness of the Connectors
Because of road vibrations, a wire that keeps coming loose from its connection can be annoying. Thus, it’s best to have a connector that makes a tight bond that will not damage anything as you remove it.
Type of Conductor Used
A high-quality conductor allows signals to pass accurately. That’s why many companies use oxygen-free copper (OFC) since it does not have impurities that can cause signal loss. Nevertheless, silver is a better conductor than copper since it produces a warmer and livelier sound, but it can lose out on the bass.
Cost of RCA Cables
My best advice regarding price is not to combine a high-end system with a cheap RCA cable. This is because it can short and damage components since it may not handle the voltage of the signals running through it.
Length of RCA Cables
A long cable has a higher chance of picking up differences in voltage or sound degradation because of the distance. As such, it’s best to pick up the shortest possible RCA that will fit your car audio set up.
Read more: Car audio problems? Here is how to fix any of them yourself
Final Thoughts
Okay, guys, these here are the best RCA cables for car audio that you can buy today. My top recommendation for every driver is the Skar Audio RCA cable. It combines the best materials to preserve audio quality from stock and aftermarket stereos.
However, if you’re an audiophile with a bass subwoofer, the Rockford Fosgate Twisted Pair is your best chance for capturing low frequencies as they should. Finally, for the car with lots of devices, I found the KabelDirekt 2 RCA to 2 RCA Cable suitable for blocking all types of interferences.
So, are you ready to complete your car’s stereo with the best? These RCA cables are the only ones you’ll need!
