Wide-bandwidth OCC Copper interconnect.

The Ailsa OCC XLR is a wide-bandwidth interconnect designed to maximise the performance of high-performance audio systems using the increasingly popular XLR connectors. It incorporates our precision dd (dual-drain) system.

A symmetrical interconnect featuring four central multi-core conductors of ultra-high purity OCC (Ohno Continuous Casting) copper encapsulated within a microporous PTFE dielectric. Termination is with our aluminium alloy ‘dark Chrome’ XLR connectors with silver-plated OCC copper pins.

We based our ‘dd’ (dual-drain) configuration on techniques originally developed for our top-of-the-range Mavros and Asimi interconnects. Twin symmetrical drain wires connect the screen to the cable return/plug interface, allowing cable termination without distorting, twisting or mechanically stressing the precision-laid screen.

Typically, screened cables suffer from screen distortion when prepared for production. Cutting and twisting the screening braid has a measurable impact, effectively changing the impedance and, therefore, the cable's performance. The benefits are maintaining a constant low impedance load to the plug and total 360° screening against noise and signal degradation caused by RFI (Radio Frequency Interference).

The result is a beautifully balanced, open, accurate, natural sound which we think, like the Ailsa Achromatic X RCA, defines a new performance standard at its price point.