14 best guitar leads

Guitar leads, also known as instrument cables, are essential components for connecting guitars and other musical instruments to amplifiers, audio interfaces, and other equipment. Here's some information about them:

  1. Construction: Guitar leads are typically composed of a durable outer casing (usually made of rubber or PVC), shielding to prevent interference, and conductors (usually made of copper) that carry the audio signal.

  2. Connector Types:

    • 1/4-inch TS (Tip-Sleeve): This is the most common type of connector used for guitars. It has a single, unbalanced conductor and is suitable for most instruments.
    • 1/4-inch TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve): These cables have an extra ring on the connector and are used for balanced signals, often in studio settings or with professional audio equipment.
    • XLR: While not as common for guitars, XLR cables are used for balanced signals and are commonly found in professional audio setups.
  3. Lengths: Guitar leads come in various lengths, ranging from a few inches to several meters. It's important to choose an appropriate length for your setup to avoid excess cable clutter.

  4. Shielding: Good quality guitar leads have effective shielding to prevent interference from external sources like electrical equipment, fluorescent lights, and other electronic devices.

  5. Durability: Professional-grade leads are built to withstand the rigors of live performances and studio use. They often have reinforced connectors and a robust outer casing.

  6. Straight vs. Angled Connectors: Some leads have straight connectors on both ends, while others have one straight and one angled connector.Angled connectors can be useful for reducing stress on the cable and the instrument's input jack.

  7. Low Capacitance: Low capacitance cables are designed to maintain the integrity of the audio signal over longer distances, minimizing tone loss.

  8. Coiled vs. Straight: Coiled leads are popular for live performances because they can stretch out to cover a large stage but retract for easy storage and transport.

  9. Price Range: Guitar leads come in a range of prices. Higher-end cables often offer better shielding, durability, and signal fidelity, but budget-friendly options can still provide decent performance.

  10. Brands: There are many reputable brands that produce high-quality instrument cables, including Mogami, Planet Waves, Monster Cable, Fender, and more.

  11. Maintenance: It's important to take care of your guitar lead by coiling it properly after use, avoiding sharp bends or kinks, and not pulling or tugging on the cable excessively.

Remember that a good quality instrument cable is crucial for preserving the tone and ensuring a reliable connection between your guitar and amplifier or other equipment. It's worth investing in a high-quality lead to avoid potential signal loss or interference issues.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best guitar leads on the market
  

Power Chord: One Man's Ear-Splitting Quest to Find His Guitar Heroes

Based on 20 reviews Check latest price

Curse of the Black Axe: Soldier, Outlaw, Hero, King: Annals of the Nameless Dwarf, Book 3

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Halligan to My Axe: Heroes of Dixie Wardens MC Series, Book 2

Based on 289 reviews Check latest price

Thank You for My Service

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

GLS Audio 10 Foot Guitar Instrument Cable - Right Angle 1/4 Inch TS to Straight 1/4 Inch TS 10 FT Brown Yellow Tweed Cloth Jacket - 10 Feet Pro Cord 10' Phono 6.3mm - Single

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

You will love our PROFESSIONAL SERIES 10 ft Guitar Cables. They have a nice flexible tweed jacket (not the stiff plastic jacket like others sell). Our cables have Oxygen-Free Copper for both the center conductor and the insulator shield. Plus our cables are double shielded with a Conductive PVC and OFC Insulator Shield. And most importantly, our cables have a VERY low Picofarad rating. Have you ever wondered why one guitar cable sounds better than another? They may look the same, but sound totally different? The main reason is the Picofarad rating. Most guitar cables have a high Picofarad rating. Some as high as 200 Picofarads per foot. A cable with a high Picofarad rating is much cheaper to make, and they will still work, but they will not sound as good. Our cables are rated at a SUPER LOW 38 Picofarads per foot (AWESOME). Most guitar cable manufactures don't even give you their rated Picofarads because they are so high. Why would you want to use a cheap cable with a hard plastic cover, no flexibility, and a high Picofarad rating? A good cable is just as important as a good guitar or amp. Our cables have an external rubber heat shrink strain relief, internal rubber booty strain relief, AND an internal metal clamp strain relief. This triple strain relief system allows for many years of trouble free usage.

  • Braided Tweed Cloth Jacket
  • OFC Insulator Shield & Conductive PVC Shielded
  • ONLY 38 Picofarads Per Foot
  • Super Durable & Flexy
  • Very Low Capacitance

User questions & answers

Question: why is the 10' yelow cable more than the 15' and 20' cable
Answer: As Sept 29 '18 the pricing has sorted out where the 10 is less than the 20, and the same as the 15 and 6. Debating what size to get, as any excess can be tied off easily to avoid clutter.
Question: When I plug the right angle into the amp, it doesn't work. It only works when the right angle is plugged into the guitar. Is that normal
Answer: That is not normal. I've had great success with these cables in both configurations. If the cable is good, it may be a mechanical problem with the amp input jack. Could be as simple as the the right angle plug not seating well into the jack. Could also be a tiny bit of oxidation on the plug. Move the right angle plug around a bit while strumming or plucking a string to see if the connection comes through.
Question: Hi! Will this work with a ditto looper effects pedal? thanks
Answer: Yes, if the looper doesn't have stereo or balanced jacks. It is a standard 1/4" mono instrument cable.
Question: What warranty is offered with this cable
Answer: All GLS Audio products come with a one year warranty.

GLS Audio 6 Foot Guitar Instrument Cable - Right Angle 1/4-Inch TS to Straight 1/4-Inch TS 6 FT Brown Yellow Tweed Cloth Jacket - 6 Feet Pro Cord 6' Phono 6.3mm - Single

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

You will love our PROFESSIONAL SERIES 6 ft Guitar Cables. They have a nice flexible tweed jacket (not the stiff plastic jacket like others sell). Our cables have Oxygen-Free Copper for both the center conductor and the insulator shield. Plus our cables are double shielded with a Conductive PVC and OFC Insulator Shield. And most importantly, our cables have a VERY low Picofarad rating. Have you ever wondered why one guitar cable sounds better than another? They may look the same, but sound totally different? The main reason is the Picofarad rating. Most guitar cables have a high Picofarad rating. Some as high as 200 Picofarads per foot. A cable with a high Picofarad rating is much cheaper to make, and they will still work, but they will not sound as good. Our cables are rated at a SUPER LOW 38 Picofarads per foot (AWESOME). Most guitar cable manufactures don't even give you their rated Picofarads because they are so high. Why would you want to use a cheap cable with a hard plastic cover, no flexibility, and a high Picofarad rating? A good cable is just as important as a good guitar or amp. Our cables have an external rubber heat shrink strain relief, internal rubber booty strain relief, AND an internal metal clamp strain relief. This triple strain relief system allows for many years of trouble free usage.

  • Braided Tweed Cloth Jacket
  • ONLY 38 Picofarads Per Foot
  • Very Low Capacitance
  • OFC Insulator Shield & Conductive PVC Shielded
  • Super Durable & Flexy

User questions & answers

Question: I just ordered one, but it seems to have a significant hum when I'm using it to plug in my keyboard or guitar to an interface... Any suggestions
Answer: When I first used the cable there was no hum at all but after about two weeks it started humming. I don't know the answer but have the same problem
Question: are these cables balanced or unbalanced
Answer: These are unbalanced shielded instrument cable. balanced cords have two rings on the tip.and r for speakers.
Question: Sorry for the stupid question but I'm buying for my son because I accidentally broke his) Is this what you use to connect the amp to the guitar
Answer: Yes it is, but it's actually better said: "connecting the guitar to a pedal chain" or "connecting the guitar to the amp." In most cases there is a series of effects pedals in between the guitar and amplifier. This cable could also be used to connect the "last pedal in the chain" to the amplifier. These are excellent cables by the way, I have a six foot and a ten foot and I am very pleased with GSL Audio Cables.
Question: Does this break up with use with a bass? i want to use this to go from pedals top amp. -bass
Answer: It does not break up going directly to my amp. I do not use pedals, so I couldn't tell you that part.

Beginner Lead Guitar Method: Learn to play guitar solos - The musical way (play rock guitar)

Based on 114 reviews Check latest price

Syncwire Professional Guitar Lead 6M/19.68ft, 6.35mm 1/4" Right Angled Jack Nylon Braided Guitar Instrument Cable for Electric Guitar, Bass, Amp, Keyboard, Mandolin, Mixing Desks - STR/ANG - Black

Syncwire

Based on 711 reviews Check latest price
  • UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY - Syncwire Instruments Cable is fully compatible with devices equipped with standard 6.35mm (1/4") ports, such as electric bass guitar, synths, electric desktop keyboard, amplifier, piano and other professional audio equipment.
  • SUPERIOR SOUND QUALITY - Enameled premium copper wires, polished nickel-plated connectors and the double shielding of aluminum foil and copper braid assure you flawless, noise-free and optimum sound.
  • DURABLE & TANGLE-FREE - Sturdy nylon braided guitar lead can resist scratches and abrasions and offer a longer lifespan, which also prevents the cable from kinking.
  • PLUG AND PLAY IN STYLE – With no external power and driver required, this guitar cable allows you to simply connect your instrument to an amplifier. Its glossy black color and handsome-looking nylon braid will add more delicate features to your performance. Tight connection between the cable and the instrument allows you immerse deeply in wonderful musical world.
  • HAT YOU GET - Syncwire Straight to L Shape Instruments Cable 6M/19.68ft, 12+24 months warranty and our friendly and easy-to-reach customer service without any additional cost.

Product features

Premium Nylon Braided Material

Sturdy nylon braided guitar lead can resist scratches and abrasions and offer a longer lifespan, which also prevents the cable from kinking.

Unparalleled Sound Quality

Enameled premium copper wires, polished nickel-plated connectors and the double shielding of aluminum foil and copper braid assure you flawless, noise-free and optimum sound.

Mr.Power Guitar Effect Pedal DC Cable 2.1 mm Power Lead/Cord (8 Pack)

Mr.Power

Based on 253 reviews Check latest price
  • Product: 8 pcs DC Cable
  • Color: Black
  • Male to Male 5.5x2.1mm jack
  • length: 60cm
  • For: Guitar Effect Pedal

User questions & answers

Question: Will these work with a Gator G-Bus-8 power supply
Answer: They will work with any power supply with barrel connectors like the ones that plug into a pedal
Question: Will these work on a voodoo labs power supply? I get the feeling these are all universal but I’ve never bought replacements before
Answer: Yeah these work on my voodoo lab perfectly no problems. Pretty sure that most if not all power supplies use these just for future reference.
Question: Are these center negative
Answer: That depends entirely on what is providing the power.
Question: How long are these cables
Answer: about 15 "

Product features

Guitar Effect Pedal DC Cable :

Length: 60cm / 24 inch.

Material Quality: Oxygen-Free Copper Wire.

Male to male, one right angle and one straight jack.

5.5mm (outside diameter) x 2.1mm (inside diameter), negative in the center.

Suitable For: Guitar Effect Power Supply.

Package Content:

8 Pcs x Guitar Effect Pedal DC Cable

Celestion Classic Lead 80 guitar speaker, 8 ohm

CELESTION

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Developed in the late 70's the Classic Lead uses a fiberglass voice coil former to deliver an 80 watt power rating with a unique dynamic sound.

  • The package length of the product is 13.49999998623 inches
  • The package width of the product is 12.799999986944 inches
  • The package height of the product is 6.299999993574 inches
  • The package weight of the product is 11.95 pounds

GOSONO 3M Black Guitar Cable Amplifier Amp Instrument Lead Cord

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This high quality guitar cable can provide a reliable connection between amplifier and your guitar.Material: Copper wrapped with rubberThe cord is very supple and durableLow noise shielded cable designNecessary for guitar playersProduct DescriptionColor: Black Length: 300cm(approx)Quantity:1pcPackage includes:Guitar cable x 1













  • 3M Black Guitar Cable Amplifier Amp Instrument Lead Cord

USB Guitar Cable,YESPURE Guitar Bass to USB Link Connection Cable Adapter,Professional Guitar to PC USB Link Recording Cable Lead Adaptor 2.8M/9.2FT

YESPURE

Based on 501 reviews Check latest price
  • 【GREAT COMPATIBILITY】Compatible with USB 2.0. Fit for almost all kinds of computers with USB port, such as Windows 98SE/ 2000/ XP/ VISTA/ Win7/ Win 8/ Win 10, Mac OS.Compatible with most recording software like GarageBand ,Guitar Combo Amps, Audacity, Amplitude. Compatible with Yousician.★★★DO NOT support the game device such as XBOX,PS4,PS3,PS2.
  • 【BUILT-IN HIGH-END CHIP】This USB Guitar Cable supports both 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz sample rate. Designed to transmit the electric guitar/ piano/ bass signal into your computer. Build-in a high-end D/A conversion chip, it can perfectly compatible with computer without additional drivers. Plug it and make your PC as your guitar sound recorder. Also perfect for stage and studio use.
  • 【HIGH SOUND QUALITY】 Low noise high fidelity, the usb guitar cord diameter 64mm(22AWG )with oxygen-free copper (OFC) center conductors provides enhanced signal transfer.High quality silver-plated USB & 6.35mm Connectors, the usb guitar cord with 1/4 end has Spring-Style Strain Relief Prevents Cables from Pulling Out.The usb guitar cable with 1.6PVC insulation material and the high-density stranded coppershield provide noise rejection for quiet operation.
  • 【PLUG & PLAY 】Use our USB Guitar Cable, plug the 1/4" TS plug into the guitar you love, plug the usb interface into your computer, your computer will be converted to guitar amplifier and recording system without the need for any other hardware and driver, plug and play.
  • 【HIGH-QUALITY AFTER-SALES SERVICE 】We have free alternative product service. There is also a service that does not need to return the goods to you to arrange a refund. If you encounter any problems including technical problems while using the product, you can contact the seller's customer service via Amazon or contact us via email. We will provide you with quality service 24 hours a day.

User questions & answers

Question: Would this cable work with my iPad Pro using an apple adapter
Answer: Yes. It supports iPad Pro with apple adapters. If you have operational problems during use, you can contact us at any time.
Question: Will this work to plug my bass into my PC laptop for recording into bandlab
Answer: Of course. Our USB guitar cable is equivalent to a built-in sound card microphone. And can be compatible with a variety of software, including bandlab.
Question: Is this product, similar (or equivalent) a rocksmith real tone usb audio cable [ubisoft]
Answer: Our USB guitar cable is compatible with MacBook GarageBand. It can also be used with Xbox with RockSmith. But to use with RockSmith, a "No Cable" patch is required. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
Question: Does this work with Rocksmith on a pc
Answer: Yes, if you use the no cable mod.

Metal Earth Fascinations Electric Lead Guitar 3D Metal Model Kit

Metal Earth

Based on 323 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This amazingly detailed 3D DIY model starts as two 10cm square steel sheets and finishes as a stunning 3D model. Use the easy to follow instructions to pop out the pieces, bend the tabs and connect them at the attatchment points.

Set Contains:

1 x steel construction sheet

1 x instructions

  • HOBBY MODEL KIT – Unassembled model packed in an envelope with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up.
  • NO GLUE OR SOLDER NEEDED – Parts can be easily clipped from the metal sheets. Tweezers are the recommended tool for bending and twisting the connection tabs.
  • ELECTRIC LEAD GUITAR – 1 Sheet Model with an easy difficulty level. Assembled Size: 4.45 x 1.52 x 1.25 inches.
  • FROM STEEL SHEETS TO 3D – Pop out the pieces and connect using tabs and holes. Includes illustrated instructions.
  • HIGHLY DETAILED ETCHED MODEL – Display your 3D model once completed - collect and build them all.

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come with the stand or platform
Answer: Just the stand. The drum kit model also shows a platform in the picture which is NOT included.
Question: what's the packaging here? in a flat cardboard as these are usually in or in box
Answer: It is packed in flat cardstock, a little bit bigger than the metal sheets that the parts are cut on. All of the Metal Earth have this kind of packaging.
Question: Is this a good beginner Metal Earth to do
Answer: Yes! I've been building these for 6 years now and this was my very first model. I think it's a great starter model. Maybe not the easiest one, but a good starter!
Question: is this new in original packaging
Answer: Yes - all of our kits are genuine Metal Earth brand and come in original retail packaging.

GLS Audio 20 Foot Guitar Instrument Cable - 1/4-Inch TS to 1/4-Inch TS 20 FT Black Gray Tweed Cloth Jacket - 20 Feet Pro Guitar Cord 20' Phono 6.3mm Cord - Single

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

You will love our PROFESSIONAL SERIES 20 ft Guitar Cables. They have a nice flexible tweed jacket (not the stiff plastic jacket like others sell). Our cables have Oxygen-Free Copper for both the center conductor and the insulator shield. Plus our cables are double shielded with a Conductive PVC and OFC Insulator Shield. And most importantly, our cables have a VERY low Picofarad rating. Have you ever wondered why one guitar cable sounds better than another? They may look the same, but sound totally different? The main reason is the Picofarad rating. Most guitar cables have a high Picofarad rating. Some as high as 200 Picofarads per foot. A cable with a high Picofarad rating is much cheaper to make, and they will still work, but they will not sound as good. Our cables are rated at a SUPER LOW 38 Picofarads per foot (AWESOME). Most guitar cable manufactures don't even give you their rated Picofarads because they are so high. Why would you want to use a cheap cable with a hard plastic cover, no flexibility, and a high Picofarad rating? A good cable is just as important as a good guitar or amp. Our cables have an external rubber heat shrink strain relief, internal rubber booty strain relief, AND an internal metal clamp strain relief. This triple strain relief system allows for many years of trouble free usage.

  • Braided Tweed Cloth Jacket
  • Super Durable & Flexy
  • OFC Insulator Shield & Conductive PVC Shield
  • Very Low Capacitance
  • ONLY 38 Picofarads Per Foot

User questions & answers

Question: Does this cable use Neutrik connectors
Answer: Neutrik always has their name stamped on their products. Their 1/4" Phone plugs (not Bantams) have recognized by the rear end plastic chuck type strain relief (Also used on their XLRs - Lo-Z Mike connector) make them easily idetifiable even when seeing one on television - black plastic cable exit relief. But the name stamped on the connector shell is the biggest clue. Neutrik's PX and C Series both are like this. THis plug looks much like the Switchcraft #280 series with the double-knurled barrel but the 280 has Switchcrafts label also clearly stamped in the barrel around the perimeter of the front by the threads. Swtichcraft does have an economy model with no markings as sold by Cascio (INterstate) and others with no markings on it but the barrel at the cable exit is rounded - nothing like the GLS. Without destroying the GLS to determin if the tip/rod is machined or stampled (which I won;t do for salvage) I can say clearly this is neither a Neutrik or Switchcraft. But my external evaluation after more than 40 years manufatruing cables and harnesses (I'm retired so I don't make these anymore) is that this GLS is very good quality. Time and use will tell. There are so many cloth-braided cables on the market. GLS appears to be an economical yet high-quality and at 71 years old and still playing R+R, I am no longer a hard driving KISS performer. I think most any pro or novice will do well with these.
Question: does this GLS come with the lifetime warranty
Answer: Nice cable..but not Lifetime Warranty nice. I believe it's 1 year. Here is site link.http://www.speakerrepair.com/page/category/AMWarrantyReturns.htmlThey appear to be distributed through they guys.
Question: is this 1/4 inch cable standard size for all elect acoustic guitars
Answer: Yes, I love these cords for pretty much everything with this size jack. It was a very good price for a great cord.
Question: This baby is good for other instruments too, right? I need a couple of such cables for a synthesizer, to connect it to an audio interface/amp on stage
Answer: This isn't an easy question to answer without the specifics of what you're trying to hook up. This is a guitar cable. It is mono and will work well in transferring a low power signal to an amp, etc. If you're trying to hook up an amp to a speaker for example, this is not what you want. For an already amplified signal you'll need a 1/4" speaker cable. There is a huge difference. One is shielded and meant to carry a high impedance signal to an amplification source, the other is not shielded and meant to carry a much stronger power signal with low impedance. You should Google the specifics of your gear because using this cable for instance to run from an amp head to a speaker could possibly cause major damage. I hope this helps!

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