To Go A/V Cables

When it comes to audio, the true aficionado will tell you audio cables can make the difference between a jammin' audio system and an audio system that sounds like something got jammed in it. The catch? Like most electronics, better quality means more expensive. Of course, at Overstock.com, more expensive still means less expensive than retail.

So what's the real difference between basic analog audio cables (the ones that come with most audio equipment) and the high-end analog or digital cables? It's their anatomy -- the conductor, the shielding and the connector.

One of the first audio equipment technicalities to spring on the unwary is shielding. Double-shielded audio cables keep both RFI (radio frequency interference) and EMI (electromagnetic interference) from disrupting your audio signal. Single shielded audio and video cables only block some of the interference. Double-shielded audio cables may cost a bit more, but you get much better sound.

Next, a quality conductor keeps a consistent signal between CD players, DJ equipment, iPods, stereos and other audio systems in your home theater. Audio cables with quality conductors tend to keep increased audio signal strength longer, meaning they don't need replacement so often. Another bonus in the already amazing deals at Overstock.com.

Finally, the audio cable connector serves a double function: A good connector keeps a tight lock between the cable and the audio equipment -- giving you better sound quality -- and, since each type of cable connector is different, the connector tells you at a glance whether you have a digital cable, an analog cable, a fiber optic TOSLINK or a video cable.

Whether you're buying all new audio cables for your entertainment center, upgrading a few audio cables, switching to component video or tracking down that last audio accessory, Overstock.com is the place to save some money without giving up quality.