New Connector Generation for the Reference AIR Speaker Cables
For many years, our Reference AIR Series has stood for uncompromising signal transmission. With AIR Technology, we pursue one clear objective: to transfer music from amplifier to loudspeaker as faithfully as possible. Every aspect of our cable design is carefully scrutinized - from the conductors and dielectric to the termination technology.
This philosophy has now led us to further refine our Reference AIR speaker cables. Rather than introducing an entirely new cable architecture, we focused on a component that plays a crucial role in everyday use: the connector.
Why we redesigned the Connector System
For us, high-end audio is about more than outstanding electrical performance—it also requires intuitive and practical usability. Behind most HiFi systems, installation space is often limited, making cable termination a challenging and sometimes frustrating task, particularly when connecting single Bi-Wire or Bi-Wire speaker cables.
To address this, we have completely redesigned our BFA Banana 360° and Spade Connector 360° terminations. Instead of conventional set screws, the new design features a tool-free locking nut, allowing for significantly faster and easier installation - without requiring any tools.
Our objective was straightforward: improve ease of use without compromising either electrical or mechanical performance.
Connection Technology – a critical Part of the Signal Path
When discussing high-end speaker cables, attention is often focused on conductor design, materials and cable geometry. However, the termination is equally important.
Every contact point within the signal path places high demands on material quality, mechanical stability and consistently low contact resistance. The interfaces between cable and component are ultimately where long-term reliability is determined.
Our Reference AIR connectors continue to use tellurium copper for the contact elements. This material combines excellent electrical conductivity with exceptional mechanical strength. A premium rhodium plating provides an extremely hard and wear-resistant surface, ensuring stable contact performance over countless mating cycles.
The connection between conductor and contact element is achieved by a direct compression process using 1.5 tonnes of crimping force. We deliberately avoid solder joints within the signal path, eliminating the additional resistance introduced by solder and preventing potential mechanical stresses caused by thermal expansion.
The integrated three-axis ball joint also contributes to the electrical integrity of the connection. Its contact resistance is less than 0.05 milliohms, making it practically negligible. For comparison, a conventional one-metre speaker cable with a conductor cross-section of 2.5 mm² already exhibits a loop resistance of approximately 20 milliohms, while typical loudspeaker binding posts contribute around 1 to 3 milliohms. Against these values, the additional resistance introduced by the ball joint is effectively insignificant.
Flexibility by Three-Axis Ball Joint
Mechanical stress is just as important as electrical performance. Due to their weight and routing, speaker cables inevitably exert leverage forces on amplifier outputs and loudspeaker binding posts.
The integrated three-axis ball joint allows the connector to align freely in multiple directions, significantly reducing the mechanical forces transferred to the equipment terminals.
As a result, contact pressure remains evenly distributed, ensuring a stable and reliable connection even under mechanical load.
For high-end HiFi systems, this combination of mechanical strain relief and secure electrical contact is an important factor in achieving long-term reliability.
AIR Technology Remains the Heart of the Design
While the connector system has been refined, the core design principle of our Reference AIR Series remains unchanged: AIR Technology. Our approach is based on a fundamental law of physics - air is one of the finest dielectric materials available. For this reason, our signal conductors are suspended almost entirely in air using specially developed support clips.
These precision-engineered clips provide the structural framework of the cable while maintaining the conductors in a precisely defined helical arrangement. Two connecting bridges ensure the required spacing between the conductors while simultaneously providing the necessary mechanical stability.
The exceptionally high air content surrounding the conductors minimizes capacitance and significantly reduces dielectric losse AIR Technology therefore continues to define our Reference speaker cables, reflecting our commitment to minimizing every physical influence that could affect signal transmission.
Applications
With this new connector generation, we have refined one of the most important aspects of everyday use: creating a simple, secure and reliable connection between cable and component. The new BFA Banana 360° and Spade Connector 360° terminations are now featured across our Reference AIR speaker cable range, including the LS-2405 AIR, LS-4005 AIR and LS-8005 AIR. Each model is available in both high-purity copper and pure silver versions.
Like every Reference AIR cable, these models are handcrafted in our own manufacturing facility in Ballrechten-Dottingen. Every cable is individually assembled, carefully inspected and thoroughly tested before leaving our workshop
Conclusion
With the introduction of this new connector generation, we continue to evolve the Reference AIR Series by improving an aspect that delivers tangible everyday benefits: the connection between cable and component.The new tool-free locking nut makes installation considerably easier, while proven design features such as the three-axis ball joint and AIR Helix Technology remain unchanged.
As with every cable we develop, our objective remains the same: to transmit audio signals with the lowest possible loss and without imposing any sonic signature of our own. The musical performance is created in the recording studio. Our task is simply to deliver it to the listener with the highest possible degree of fidelity.
Rotatable Connectors – Not just for Speaker Cables
Rotatable connectors are not exclusive to our Reference AIR speaker cables. Selected analogue interconnects, phono, digital, USB and Ethernet cables also benefit from this flexible connector technology, which reduces mechanical stress on the connection while making installation considerably easier. Discover the complete range below, featuring all cable models equipped with rotatable connectors.
New Connector Generation
The new connector generation for our AIR speaker cables makes installation significantly easier while complementing our proven AIR technology with an intelligent new connection system.
Sound Tuning
Our guide "Sound Tuning", written by renowned HiFi and music editor Lothar Brandt, provides you with 10 practical tips on how to noticeably get more out of your HiFi system – without expensive new purchases.
News Release: s.a.m. !
s.a.m. – selected audiophile music Vol.1: Discover the successor to our legendary Reference Sound Edition. s.a.m. is based on the advanced RESO Mastering 2.0 – a consistently refined version of the proven RESO technology. Available as U-HQCD and 180g double LP.
Analog, Close to the Original: Our Master Tapes
Our new master tapes combine craftsmanship, technology, and music history. Three editions – Start, Standard, and Studio – offer access to authentic sound. In this article, we explain the differences and background.
AC-3200: High-End Power Strip & Power Conditioner
The AC-3200 delivers clean, interference-free power, noticeably enhancing clarity, dynamics, and soundstage tranquility in your audio setup. Try it free for 14 days and experience how superior power quality can refine your sound!
Wiring your hi-fi system correctly
The new S25 series hi-fi cables offer you a high-quality entry into the high-end segment. Learn how to unlock the full sound potential of your system with the right materials and meticulous workmanship.
Pickup: MM or MC?
MM or MC – two cartridge principles, one common goal: the best sound. But how do they differ, and which one suits your turntable better? In this article, we break down what really matters.
The right HDMI cable
Find the perfect HDMI cable for your setup: Learn everything about standards, connector types, key features like eARC & VRR, plus tips on choosing the right length and proper handling to ensure the best picture and sound quality! A guest article by Raphael Vogt | lowbeats