Why is the heat shrink called clear when it is obviously white? Also at the end when the guitarist gets the new cable, it looks like the patriot tech flex but you don't see the heat shrink. Does it become clear over time or something or was that a different cable than the oine you made?
@Dell04BQ - I think the first cable we built was with clear heat shrink, with subsequent cables being different colors. The video includes the audio from that first build. We can provide different colors if you would like, just mention it in the comments section.
@TubeDepotTV where can i buy the shrink rap and where is the best place to buy bulk mogami cable. Could you do a video on quad cable? Is quad cable better that regular balanced cable?
@edcnz - the instrument cable is quite thick, designed for heavy stage use. The interconnect cable is used for less brutal installations where minimal handling is to be expected. The interconnect cable would work well with RCA connectors.
@dannyjonesband - we forgot to bring the "broken" cable with us when we were video taping so the guitar playing is with the same high quality cable (which we built first).
@ReeferReas - most electronic grade solders do have flux in the center of the solder. This is usually enough flux for most common connections. However, when soldering to a larger surface that requires additional heat, by the time the solder is at the temperature needed to make the connection, the flux core of the solder has burnt off and evaporated. Here is where the additional flux comes in handy, especially when applied to the point where the two metal pieces are to be soldered.
spiral shields suck you need a woven shield to provide strength and rf reduction. i work next the the CN tour in Toronto one of the largest most powerful radio transmitters in the world and all the spiral shielded cables pick up radio.
@unklepervert - Braided shields can cause a cable to be stiff and crackly sounding when flexed. Spiral shielding is more flexible and quieter. This Mogami cable has two shields, the spiral shield and an inner polymer shield. These together provide better shielding than even a braided shield. But in your situation, you may not be able to get the RF totally out of your system. There are RF shunting mods you can do to your amp to reduce / eliminate RF interference. Good luck either way.
@threevan07 - the "magic solder fluid" is liquid solder flux. My discussion regarding the flux got dropped from the final video due to time constraints. Electronic grade liquid flux (not acid plumbers flux) helps to make soldering to the back of pots and to large terminals better. Solder flux improves "wetting" by boiling off the surface oxide layers when heated allowing the solder to adhere quicker and more readily to the metals.
@hotlion81 - some guitar cables, when they are moved (shaken back and forth), will generate their own static noise. To hear what I'm talking about, purchase the cheapest guitar cable you can find (one with molded ends will usually suffice) and connect your guitar with this cable. Then, with the volume up on your guitar, shake the cable. You should hear a swishing static sound. And the heat shrink is to hold the techflex in place at the ends.
Awesome video man. Thanks for sharing! I'm buying all the materials as we speak, but what size (expansion range) Techflex do you recommend getting for the Mogami W2524 cable? If I'm reading the specs right, it seems like the cable is just under 1/4" in diameter. I assume I would want either the 3/32–1/4 or the 1/8–7/16, but what is your recommendation?
@dalevanmail - the techflex used in the video is 1/4". You might be able to use a smaller dia. braiding, however the installation would be more difficult.
@ChronoGXay - At the time of this writing, 57,054 people have watched this video. And many of those have successfully built their own cable ... and probably worn eye protection. Thereby making "google time" a successful line. You'll find, it is in most of the construction videos we've done. What ever it takes to protect the eyes of the DIY community is good .
@TubeDepotTV - Okay, I saw your reply in my Inbox, and was a little confused because you misspelled 'goggle' to 'google'... I wasn't complaining about the line, I thought it was funny and I like it. (Hence the smiley face emoticon)
@ChronoGXay - oh my ... i did misspell "goggle". That is funny. My brain was thinking one thing and my fingers typed something else. No offense taken regarding the goggle thing ... I get responses regarding that line all the time (I try and sneak it into each video).
@ahgnfjie - the heatshrink holds the techflex in place. With a little effort, the heatshrink can be installed first (shrunk in place) and the connector installed over the heatshrink. It is a very tight fit, but with enough wiggling, it can be done. And it looks better than with the heatshrink over the shell end of the connector.
@RombusEvilBones - the diameter of a wire (the gauge) determines the maximum current handling ability of a wire. In the case of guitar pickups which create very tiny currents, the diameter difference between 24 AWG and 20 AWG has no effect. Additionally, larger diameter wires have lower resistances. However, the difference between 20' of 24 AWG and 20 AWG is only a couple of ohms which electrically has no effect. In short, the diameter doesn't have an appreciable effect on tone.
@guitarslf132 - the small clamp is a heat sink that absorbs the heat of the soldering iron and keeps it from flowing up the wire and melting the insulation. It is also a great clamp to hold the wire in place when soldering. The red, white, and blue tech flex is just bling that looks cool ...
could you tell me pre made cords already? or could you give me your part numbers for the best conectors and wire i noticed they are two different wire on your website ?
@jjlwis - Neutriks are very good. The Amphenol connectors that we are using in this video have a metal body and backshell. The Neutrik has a plastic backshell. Either choice is good.
@MUCKYMIDIMAN - I think it would be very cool to have a full complement of hand built cables for the pedal board. Although, depending on the jacks on the pedal, you may want to use right angle plugs on some of the connecting cables.
@lern2swim - This can be a challenging project for the first time soldering experience. I recommend experimenting building / repairing a few cables using the Switchcraft 280 plug. The 280 plug would be great practice since these connectors will be the most common connector one finds. This will also identify any deficencies in techniques and tools. It is best to have honed one's skills and upgraded any tools that were found to be problematic before attempting to build the better cable.
Keep in mind, I'm not saying it was hard. But on the model jacks I got, the connection points weren't quite so simple. For the outer shielding, I ended up snipping off a small tab to make it snug. I'm sure there are plenty of people, like me, who are watching this video because this is their first soldering attempt. Hell
@lern2swim - I haven't found a connector yet that cannot be soldered easily. The difference between a successful and unsuccessful solder connection is often based on the quality of one's technique and quality of soldering tools. It is important to learn the proper soldering techniques early so that bad habits don't have to be unlearned. And using a good quality soldering iron is the most important tool to have to insure a good connection.
@SoadOwnsUrFace - when you said that, all of a sudden my mind flashed to MC Hammer ... now, where did I leave my baggy parachute pants? Oh yea ... check out my cool side ways floating dance moves! Now stop ... goggle time ...
@parek142536 - I'm not familiar with HCI or soldering fat. Do not use any soldering flux that is acid based and is used for soldering pipes or general usages. The only safe soldering flux to use must state "for electronics use".
@hakkerxxx - great question. There are a few things to get in the habit of doing to extend the life of your cables. 1. never wrap the cables around your elbow and tie them together. Always wind them up like a lasso and weave the end around the circumference of the resultant circle to keep the cable together. 2. try not to make sharp bends in the cable, especially where the cable comes out of the back of the connectors. 3. keep the ends clean with alcohol wipes.
I'm not sure what to get, 1/8" or 1/4" tech flex. I plan on using 6mm mogami instrument cabling. Also is there a certain brand of flux that works best for this application?
@AudioGearM - 35W irons work well. Lower wattage irons have difficulty soldering the shield of the cable to the ground connection / tab of most plugs.
@AudioGearM - no working advantage except a tighter seal around the connector end. I like the 3:1 shrink for enclosing an entire Switchcraft 280 connector. I'll color code the various cables I have (by length) which makes it easier to identify my cables for others as well as how long the cable is. It makes set-up and tear-down after a gig go faster.
@PYROSF - glad you enjoyed the video. The cutting is very shallow (not all the way through the insulation). By putting the cable in between ones fingers and knife, this allows the cable to be rotated as the cut is being made. And as long as you are careful and don't apply too much pressure and definitely use a very sharp knife, there is little chance of accidents. You'll do fine ... I have faith in your abilities.
@TubeDepotTV I understand its shallow and to always use caution with a knife, but it only takes one slip and you get a nice gash in your finger. For example if your dog or a family member startles you, and you obviously don't expect it, you could possibly injure yourself due to someone else's stupidity.
@MegaManVid - good observation. The opening segment was the second video attempt. The first attempt used the bad cable however the audio didn't work. So, we came back the second night to rerecord and I forgot to bring the "broken" cable. So, we had to use the new cable.
@MegaManVid - ahhh .. I mistakenly thought you were refering to the "bad cable" that Brian was playing in the very opening. That cable was the one we built in the video. The boutique cable I had when starting the video at my desk was a Solid Cable which make fantastic cables. If you want to purchase the best constructed boutique cable, I strongly recommend Solid Cable. Solid Cable uses a more flexible cable the fits better into the connector shell once the tech flex has been installed.
@String6Channel - the heat shrink on this guitar cable has two functions: 1) added strain relief and 2) to hold the Techflex in place. Heat shrink doesn't add any durability to the solder above the added strain relief. Solder connections are damaged in three ways: 1) temperature changes (expansion and contraction), 2) repeated physical movement / vibration and 3) oxidation. Heat shrink primarily addresses the physical movement issue and to a much lesser extent, the oxidation (exposure to air).
@String6Channel - Solid Cable uses a smaller diameter cable. Our Mogami cable is standard diameter guitar cable and when the techflex is installed, it is a much tighter fit with the back shell installed. If the heat shrink is installed before the back shell, it is very difficult to get the back shell to slide in place. Therefore for ease of construction for the average builder, I installed the heat shrink over the strain relief edge of the connector.
Not the greatest soldering technique. The soldering iron should heat the work, then you apply the solder. Doing your way can result in "cold" solder joints, where the solder melts but doesn't really fuse to the conductor or the plug. You MUST heat the plug connections so they are hot enough to melt the solder.
In addition, you need to really hold everything still as you do this, so the 1 hand method is no good. If the cable moves at all as the solder cools, you can end up with a cold joint.
@larrybud - My 25 years of professional soldering (most of those years MIL-SPEC qualified) has allowed me to experiment with different soldering techniques. This "one-handed" technique is never to be used as a primary soldering method. Rather it is a "work around" for the casual soldering hobbyist who doesn't have the exotic holding clamps that professionals have. If done correctly (using flux), the quality of the connection utilizing this technique is effective, reliable and time saving.
@larrybud have you ever tried building a cable? too much heat from heating the work can melt the insulation in the cable and lead to shorts. the quicker and less hot the better
@monkeyxx - answer - yes. And I'm able to provide helpful information that the casual builder can use to successfully build great cables for themselves.
Very nice cord. I got pretty much this same set up and wow. Took me little bit to get the soldering down, but I'm getting better. Thanx for the great vid by the way it helps a lot.
@thehornypuppy - the long nails are for my life as a closet classical guitarist ... and hybrid picking. I have tried the glue on nails but they feel really weird when playing.
@TubeDepotTV Oh yeah i know what you mean. i'm sorry sometimes i write in a very rude way.
On that note...i just can't stand to see long nails. At the very least you keep yours clean. I give my girlfriend a hard time because of that. Anyways...thanks again, your channel is very helpful :3
@commetsmasher - yea yea ... "ohhh, that's tight" ... you naughty naughty man. I've tried to sneak in the same line into every video since but the editing guy catches it every time since. I need a new catch phrase.
@snitsferland - It is good practice to put on safety glasses as soon as the work is started, and remove them when the work is completed. That way one is less likely to forget to put the glasses on when needed. Additionally, when cutting wire, the force needed to pinch through the wire can cause the unsecured lead to fly a good distance, causing a potential eye hazard. I wouldn't want anyone to loose an eye.
Bravo! nice nice video i made cables in past but here in cancun mexico i cant find amphenol conector or tech flex ..so i make my cables just with cable and neutrik or swichcraft plugs and termofit i also use flukes XD
que buen video me gusto mucho .. yo aprendi a hacer cables pero yo no conocia la malla de colores que pones
@Glockenator - yea, it is. The previous nights video didn't work well so we came back for a second night of filming and I forgot the "broken" cable. So, I had to use the super cable. Good catch though ...
just got my cable items put it together and made a copy of the cable in the video excellent service fast shipping and great buy for the price Thanks TubeDepotTv
@halo3628 - they are very cool plugs and they work. When you remove the plug from your instrument, the plug automatically shorts the input to the shield. The result is no open cable noise or pops in the system. This is a very good feature if you have a battery in your guitar and you regularly disconnect the input cable to conserve battery life. If you have a standard guitar, having a shorting plug probably isn't as important since the plug usually just stays in the guitar.
@halo3628 - you are very correct. Our first take (the previous night's gig) didn't turn out well, the audio was quite terrible. So, we came back the second night and forgot the "broken" cable at the office. We had given Brian (the guitarist in the video) the constructed cable earlier so that was the one we used. Such is the "smoke and mirrors" of video making. Great observation ...
Is it ok to leave the flux without removing it? If so, what do you use and/or how do you remove it? I always thought flux had to be removed in some kind of bath. Thanks in advance.
@w3bt3k - it depends on the flux. Most fluxes used for electronics work are meant to be left on. These are the "no clean" fluxes. The rosin based fluxes can be left in place as well but I recommend cleaning them off with alcohol. In avionics, fluxes are always cleaned off but that mil-spec soldering requirement isn't as critical here.
@skurtix - good question and the short answer is - depends on the quality of the soldering iron. The function of the soldering iron is to apply the necessary heat for the connection to properly accept the solder. I'm using a temperature controlled soldering iron which senses the temperature drop at the tip and applies more power to keep the tip at a constant temperature. Therefore my iron will heat a connection quicker than a non-temperature controlled iron. Hopefully that is helpful.
@westbohan - Let's see if we can help. First, determine that it is the cable and not something else like the guitar or amp. Once you have narrowed it to the cable, most cable problems are usually at the plugs. Inspect your plugs for broken solder connection or shorted wires. Also look for loose rivets or broken tip / sleeve insulators, especially with switchcraft plugs. A less common problem will be the actual wire, which if broken, I recommend replacing the entire cable.
Do you know if pickups or the wires can go bad? I found my dad's old bass that he had taken apart. The bass has been sitting in disrepair in my basement for the last 10 years. He removed the pickups from their knobs and i was just wondering if i could just solder them back up and go from there.
@jaj145 - pickups and wires don't usually go bad with age. I recommend seeking out a wiring diagram of the instrument and rewiring the pickups to the pots and switches and output jack and see if you can get sound. If not, you may need to do some troubleshooting.
Rob loved your video ,i placed an order and went with the neutrik plugs because i wanted a right angle plug, i just noticed the ends are different, how do you make you cable attachment,where do you solder? ,can you use neutrik?, if not why didn't order person tell me that. thanks steve
@sebnn - glad you like the video. The neutrik plugs are great. They assemble differently however the soldering is very similar. Make sure to put the back shells on the cable before soldering the ends. If you have any troubles, contact me at TubeDepot.
Rob, thanks for this video. I'm a new guitar enthusiast, and for me, I'd rather be a hands on kind of guy and make my own cables rather than buying the pre-made, mass produced stuff. This video answered all of my questions, so next pay day, I'll be ordering some cable and connectors from Tube Depot. Thanks again.
@stealth71C - glad that we could be of assistance. I look forward to seeing your order and if you get a chance, send me a photo or two of your finished cable.
@stealth71C - awesome ... I'm glad you like the Amphenol connectors. Solid Cable is an awesome company, if you get a chance check out their website. In my opinion, they have the best cables.
@trixdropd - Great comment. Since most DIY'ers are soldering on their dining room table without the benefit of a vice, this technique is shown as a method of soldering when one hand is being used to hold the parts steady and the other hand is holding the soldering iron. I DO NOT recommend this as a primary means of soldering and to make this work properly, it does require additional flux. Overall, as you well stated ... "it worked here", and it will work for other as well.
@camposizzy - we sell all the tools I used in this video, except for the Panavise wide opening vise model 350. I picked that up from another online vendor years ago. They sell for around $80 each but they are very helpful.
@tiomakeke - I've been trying to quietly insert that same saying into each of the following videos but the editing guy keeps catching and deleting them. But, I will continue my resolve ... thanks for the great shout out.
@jesusfreakster101 - I promise, it is easy. All it takes is a little practice and a good soldering iron and tools. In place of a heat gun you can use an open flame from a candle. But protect the techflex from the flame with aluminum foil or the techflex will melt immediately. The device I used to hold the plug is made by Panavise. Search them on the web and you will find many great holding devices from them.
This is Awesome, thanks alot for this! Could you please tell me which size of FlexoPET you've used? It did seem too wide for the cable when you were inserting it, but i've never used tech flex so I 've no idea :)
@yosoyTKM - I'm glad you liked the video. I'm using the 1/4" expandable sleeving. It will work from 1/8" - 7/16". To install the sleeving, expand the inserted end so that the cable will slide through it. In its natural state, it contracts tightly and locks onto the cable pretty tightly. TubeDepot has several different colors. They can be found under "tech supplies" on our website.
Why is the heat shrink called clear when it is obviously white? Also at the end when the guitarist gets the new cable, it looks like the patriot tech flex but you don't see the heat shrink. Does it become clear over time or something or was that a different cable than the oine you made?
Dell04BQ 2 weeks ago
@Dell04BQ - I think the first cable we built was with clear heat shrink, with subsequent cables being different colors. The video includes the audio from that first build. We can provide different colors if you would like, just mention it in the comments section.
TubeDepotTV 2 weeks ago
hi thanks for the great video. What is the tech flex for?
gudroe7 3 weeks ago
@gudroe7 - the tech flex is for looking cool. It is great bling ...
TubeDepotTV 3 weeks ago
@TubeDepotTV where can i buy the shrink rap and where is the best place to buy bulk mogami cable. Could you do a video on quad cable? Is quad cable better that regular balanced cable?
1Cecil1Spivey1 2 weeks ago
@1Cecil1Spivey1 - TubeDepot has all of these parts in stock. Quad cable is no better for high impedance guitar signals.
TubeDepotTV 2 weeks ago
What is the difference between your Mogami interconnect cable and instrument cable?
I take it that both can be used to make RCA-RCA interconnect cables, right?
edcnz 1 month ago
@edcnz - the instrument cable is quite thick, designed for heavy stage use. The interconnect cable is used for less brutal installations where minimal handling is to be expected. The interconnect cable would work well with RCA connectors.
TubeDepotTV 1 month ago
@edcnz i think his solo sounded better the first time with the old cable.lol!
dannyjonesband 3 weeks ago in playlist More videos from TubeDepotTV
@dannyjonesband - we forgot to bring the "broken" cable with us when we were video taping so the guitar playing is with the same high quality cable (which we built first).
TubeDepotTV 3 weeks ago
If the seperate flux necessary? Isnt flux in most of the soldering iron?
ReeferReas 2 months ago
@ReeferReas - most electronic grade solders do have flux in the center of the solder. This is usually enough flux for most common connections. However, when soldering to a larger surface that requires additional heat, by the time the solder is at the temperature needed to make the connection, the flux core of the solder has burnt off and evaporated. Here is where the additional flux comes in handy, especially when applied to the point where the two metal pieces are to be soldered.
TubeDepotTV 2 months ago
8:41 Listen to how he says that!!!
DavidUntoten 3 months ago
@DavidUntoten - oh you nasty boy you ... I'm referring to the connector. Where is your mind?
TubeDepotTV 3 months ago
spiral shields suck you need a woven shield to provide strength and rf reduction. i work next the the CN tour in Toronto one of the largest most powerful radio transmitters in the world and all the spiral shielded cables pick up radio.
unklepervert 3 months ago
@unklepervert - Braided shields can cause a cable to be stiff and crackly sounding when flexed. Spiral shielding is more flexible and quieter. This Mogami cable has two shields, the spiral shield and an inner polymer shield. These together provide better shielding than even a braided shield. But in your situation, you may not be able to get the RF totally out of your system. There are RF shunting mods you can do to your amp to reduce / eliminate RF interference. Good luck either way.
TubeDepotTV 3 months ago
a couple questions: what is the "magic solder fluid" you used and you said you used lead-tin solder, right?
I am new to the whole fixing equipment thing and want to make sure I do things right.
threevan07 3 months ago
@threevan07 - the "magic solder fluid" is liquid solder flux. My discussion regarding the flux got dropped from the final video due to time constraints. Electronic grade liquid flux (not acid plumbers flux) helps to make soldering to the back of pots and to large terminals better. Solder flux improves "wetting" by boiling off the surface oxide layers when heated allowing the solder to adhere quicker and more readily to the metals.
TubeDepotTV 3 months ago
"The noise of the cable moving"?? WTF is that? If i step on that cable, you won't hear nothing since I am not a guitar pickup?
And why the heat shrink?
hotlion81 3 months ago
@hotlion81 - some guitar cables, when they are moved (shaken back and forth), will generate their own static noise. To hear what I'm talking about, purchase the cheapest guitar cable you can find (one with molded ends will usually suffice) and connect your guitar with this cable. Then, with the volume up on your guitar, shake the cable. You should hear a swishing static sound. And the heat shrink is to hold the techflex in place at the ends.
TubeDepotTV 3 months ago
Comment removed
hotlion81 3 months ago
Thanks
TheLiable12 4 months ago
@TheLiable12 - glad we could help
TubeDepotTV 4 months ago
Awesome video man. Thanks for sharing! I'm buying all the materials as we speak, but what size (expansion range) Techflex do you recommend getting for the Mogami W2524 cable? If I'm reading the specs right, it seems like the cable is just under 1/4" in diameter. I assume I would want either the 3/32–1/4 or the 1/8–7/16, but what is your recommendation?
dalevanmail 4 months ago
@dalevanmail - the techflex used in the video is 1/4". You might be able to use a smaller dia. braiding, however the installation would be more difficult.
TubeDepotTV 4 months ago
"It's goggle time..."
NEEEEEERD!! :)
ChronoGXay 4 months ago
@ChronoGXay - At the time of this writing, 57,054 people have watched this video. And many of those have successfully built their own cable ... and probably worn eye protection. Thereby making "google time" a successful line. You'll find, it is in most of the construction videos we've done. What ever it takes to protect the eyes of the DIY community is good .
TubeDepotTV 4 months ago
@TubeDepotTV - Okay, I saw your reply in my Inbox, and was a little confused because you misspelled 'goggle' to 'google'... I wasn't complaining about the line, I thought it was funny and I like it. (Hence the smiley face emoticon)
ChronoGXay 3 months ago
@ChronoGXay - oh my ... i did misspell "goggle". That is funny. My brain was thinking one thing and my fingers typed something else. No offense taken regarding the goggle thing ... I get responses regarding that line all the time (I try and sneak it into each video).
TubeDepotTV 3 months ago
why did you put that heatshrink on?
ahgnfjie 4 months ago
@ahgnfjie - the heatshrink holds the techflex in place. With a little effort, the heatshrink can be installed first (shrunk in place) and the connector installed over the heatshrink. It is a very tight fit, but with enough wiggling, it can be done. And it looks better than with the heatshrink over the shell end of the connector.
TubeDepotTV 4 months ago
Thanksssssssssssssssssssss
GOHBOYZ 4 months ago
@GOHBOYZ - awesome ...
TubeDepotTV 4 months ago
Nice vid. I have a question, Does the diameter of the cable affect the tone? I know that length does but not sure about the diameter.
RombusEvilBones 5 months ago
@RombusEvilBones - the diameter of a wire (the gauge) determines the maximum current handling ability of a wire. In the case of guitar pickups which create very tiny currents, the diameter difference between 24 AWG and 20 AWG has no effect. Additionally, larger diameter wires have lower resistances. However, the difference between 20' of 24 AWG and 20 AWG is only a couple of ohms which electrically has no effect. In short, the diameter doesn't have an appreciable effect on tone.
TubeDepotTV 5 months ago
@TubeDepotTV Thanks for the reply! Very clear. :D
RombusEvilBones 5 months ago
What is the point of the heat thing and the union flag thing????
guitarslf132 5 months ago
@guitarslf132 - the small clamp is a heat sink that absorbs the heat of the soldering iron and keeps it from flowing up the wire and melting the insulation. It is also a great clamp to hold the wire in place when soldering. The red, white, and blue tech flex is just bling that looks cool ...
TubeDepotTV 5 months ago
great video i must say you go into great detail thanks
djspam80 5 months ago
@djspam80 - glad we could be of help.
TubeDepotTV 5 months ago
its goggle time!!!!
guitarsbunch347 6 months ago
@guitarsbunch347 - bring forth the royal goggles ...
TubeDepotTV 6 months ago
could you tell me pre made cords already? or could you give me your part numbers for the best conectors and wire i noticed they are two different wire on your website ?
rox12333 6 months ago
@rox12333 - we do not make cables, we only sell supplies for others to build their own cables.
TubeDepotTV 6 months ago
Where to get instrument cable without those connectors?
SparcoC4 6 months ago
@SparcoC4 - we sell this cable by the foot at tubedepot(dot)com
TubeDepotTV 6 months ago
@TubeDepotTV I'm not from US.
SparcoC4 6 months ago
@SparcoC4 - we ship through out the world. Check out our website
TubeDepotTV 6 months ago
cool thing is said on the radio
OJMAH 7 months ago
@OJMAH - the radio of youtube ... very cool here.
TubeDepotTV 7 months ago
Hey there, when putting on the main chassey for the connector, it is basically too tight to put more than half way on. Suggestions?
thedistrict3 7 months ago
@thedistrict3 - are you using the Mogami cable?
TubeDepotTV 7 months ago
Comment removed
HerdNix 8 months ago
wow, very nice cable! what do you think of the Neutrik 1/4" connectors.. compared to the Amphenal?
jjlwis 8 months ago
@jjlwis - Neutriks are very good. The Amphenol connectors that we are using in this video have a metal body and backshell. The Neutrik has a plastic backshell. Either choice is good.
TubeDepotTV 8 months ago
Hi Guys, Where did you get the desktop vice from?
simonfarmery 9 months ago
@simonfarmery - I picked it up from MCM Electronics. It is a great help, especially if you are building / repairing lots of connectors.
TubeDepotTV 9 months ago
@TubeDepotTV Thanks again!! I'll look into that!
simonfarmery 8 months ago
@simonfarmery You can get it (Panavise 396) at Amazon for $48 shipped. That's what I did. Love that thing.
Just search: PanaVise 396 Wide Opening Head
TotallyNuss 8 months ago
@TotallyNuss Thanks for the info!!! That's going to be a great help.
simonfarmery 8 months ago
Would it be overkill using this method to make short cables to connect guitar pedals together with?
MUCKYMIDIMAN 9 months ago
@MUCKYMIDIMAN - I think it would be very cool to have a full complement of hand built cables for the pedal board. Although, depending on the jacks on the pedal, you may want to use right angle plugs on some of the connecting cables.
TubeDepotTV 9 months ago
(whoops) hell, I'm basically saying to buy these specifically from you guys if they want the same level of ease. You're welcome. :)
lern2swim 9 months ago
@lern2swim - This can be a challenging project for the first time soldering experience. I recommend experimenting building / repairing a few cables using the Switchcraft 280 plug. The 280 plug would be great practice since these connectors will be the most common connector one finds. This will also identify any deficencies in techniques and tools. It is best to have honed one's skills and upgraded any tools that were found to be problematic before attempting to build the better cable.
TubeDepotTV 9 months ago
Keep in mind, I'm not saying it was hard. But on the model jacks I got, the connection points weren't quite so simple. For the outer shielding, I ended up snipping off a small tab to make it snug. I'm sure there are plenty of people, like me, who are watching this video because this is their first soldering attempt. Hell
lern2swim 9 months ago
Just a bit of a heads up to everyone, not all Amphenol jacks are quite so easy to solder up (never mind other brands)
lern2swim 9 months ago
@lern2swim - I haven't found a connector yet that cannot be soldered easily. The difference between a successful and unsuccessful solder connection is often based on the quality of one's technique and quality of soldering tools. It is important to learn the proper soldering techniques early so that bad habits don't have to be unlearned. And using a good quality soldering iron is the most important tool to have to insure a good connection.
TubeDepotTV 9 months ago
What's the purpose of the expandable sleeving? I've never had that on any of my cables.
danyeo 9 months ago
@danyeo - the expandable sleeving provides some protection but mostly it makes your cable look better.
TubeDepotTV 9 months ago
Alright stop! ...Goggle time!
SoadOwnsUrFace 9 months ago
@SoadOwnsUrFace - when you said that, all of a sudden my mind flashed to MC Hammer ... now, where did I leave my baggy parachute pants? Oh yea ... check out my cool side ways floating dance moves! Now stop ... goggle time ...
TubeDepotTV 9 months ago
Where can I find instrument cable without any jacks on them...just cable?
afro20man 10 months ago
@afro20man - we sell the Mogami model# 2524 instrument cable by the foot.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
Please what is the magic flux ?
parek142536 10 months ago
@parek142536 - this is electronics grade liquid rosin flux. It is great for making connections flow better. We sell it on our website.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
@TubeDepotTV Thank you
parek142536 10 months ago
@TubeDepotTV And can i use HCl ? Or i have some soldering fat. Can i use it ?
parek142536 10 months ago
@parek142536 - I'm not familiar with HCI or soldering fat. Do not use any soldering flux that is acid based and is used for soldering pipes or general usages. The only safe soldering flux to use must state "for electronics use".
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
Great tutorial video. At what temperature do you set your soldering station?
Northern868 10 months ago
@Northern868 - this is electronics grade liquid rosin flux. It is great for making connections flow better.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
@Northern868 - I run my soldering iron between 630 - 670 degrees for lead based solder. For other non-lead solders, the temperature must be hotter.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
BEST SOLDERING VIDEO EVER!!!! <3 <3 <3
TheDaedalEVE 10 months ago
@TheDaedalEVE - thanks for the cool comment. Soldering is best when practiced so I encourage you to make lots of stuff.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
How can I increase the lifespan of my cables?
hakkerxxx 10 months ago
@hakkerxxx - great question. There are a few things to get in the habit of doing to extend the life of your cables. 1. never wrap the cables around your elbow and tie them together. Always wind them up like a lasso and weave the end around the circumference of the resultant circle to keep the cable together. 2. try not to make sharp bends in the cable, especially where the cable comes out of the back of the connectors. 3. keep the ends clean with alcohol wipes.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
I'm not sure what to get, 1/8" or 1/4" tech flex. I plan on using 6mm mogami instrument cabling. Also is there a certain brand of flux that works best for this application?
drumsrule786 10 months ago
@drumsrule786 - the techflex to use is the 1/4" for the Mogami instrument cable. The flux I am presently using is from MG Labs and Kester.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
Hey could you make a video about balanced instrument cables?
hippyfuntime 10 months ago
@hippyfuntime - that is a great idea. I'll see if I can source some Mogami balanced cable to build them with.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
What's the minimum Wattage soldering iron you'd recommend for instrument cables ?
AudioGearM 11 months ago
@AudioGearM - 35W irons work well. Lower wattage irons have difficulty soldering the shield of the cable to the ground connection / tab of most plugs.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
@TubeDepotTV
Thanks
BTW, any advantage using 3:1 / 4:1 ratio heat shrinks over the common 2:1 ?
AudioGearM 10 months ago
@AudioGearM - no working advantage except a tighter seal around the connector end. I like the 3:1 shrink for enclosing an entire Switchcraft 280 connector. I'll color code the various cables I have (by length) which makes it easier to identify my cables for others as well as how long the cable is. It makes set-up and tear-down after a gig go faster.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
I prefer Neutrik-connectors, that they are best in the world.
Mersuharrastaja 11 months ago
I like you, Robert Hull.
The only problem I have is you cutting toward yourself when you are cutting the second shield.
But other than that, you're an okay guy.
PYROSF 11 months ago
@PYROSF - glad you enjoyed the video. The cutting is very shallow (not all the way through the insulation). By putting the cable in between ones fingers and knife, this allows the cable to be rotated as the cut is being made. And as long as you are careful and don't apply too much pressure and definitely use a very sharp knife, there is little chance of accidents. You'll do fine ... I have faith in your abilities.
TubeDepotTV 11 months ago
@TubeDepotTV I understand its shallow and to always use caution with a knife, but it only takes one slip and you get a nice gash in your finger. For example if your dog or a family member startles you, and you obviously don't expect it, you could possibly injure yourself due to someone else's stupidity.
I'm just speaking from experience.
PYROSF 11 months ago
2.14 it's goggle time!!!
woqer 11 months ago
@woqer - goggles are very important when soldering. I'm always excited when the goggles go on because it means it's time to make stuff.
TubeDepotTV 11 months ago
What's the high end cable at the beginning ?
MegaManVid 1 year ago
@MegaManVid - good observation. The opening segment was the second video attempt. The first attempt used the bad cable however the audio didn't work. So, we came back the second night to rerecord and I forgot to bring the "broken" cable. So, we had to use the new cable.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV
Which brand ?
MegaManVid 1 year ago
@MegaManVid - ahhh .. I mistakenly thought you were refering to the "bad cable" that Brian was playing in the very opening. That cable was the one we built in the video. The boutique cable I had when starting the video at my desk was a Solid Cable which make fantastic cables. If you want to purchase the best constructed boutique cable, I strongly recommend Solid Cable. Solid Cable uses a more flexible cable the fits better into the connector shell once the tech flex has been installed.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV
Thanks :)
BTW, doesn't the heat shrink usually goes "inside" the connector to make the solder more durable ?
What's the point of putting it on the outer side ?
Wh
String6Channel 1 year ago
@String6Channel - the heat shrink on this guitar cable has two functions: 1) added strain relief and 2) to hold the Techflex in place. Heat shrink doesn't add any durability to the solder above the added strain relief. Solder connections are damaged in three ways: 1) temperature changes (expansion and contraction), 2) repeated physical movement / vibration and 3) oxidation. Heat shrink primarily addresses the physical movement issue and to a much lesser extent, the oxidation (exposure to air).
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV
So does it add to the strain releif when on and not "inside" ? (aren't the Solid Cable's heat inside?)
MegaManVid 1 year ago
@String6Channel - Solid Cable uses a smaller diameter cable. Our Mogami cable is standard diameter guitar cable and when the techflex is installed, it is a much tighter fit with the back shell installed. If the heat shrink is installed before the back shell, it is very difficult to get the back shell to slide in place. Therefore for ease of construction for the average builder, I installed the heat shrink over the strain relief edge of the connector.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@8:38 "wow, that is so tight. That is GREAT." haha, good video. I'll have to make one now.
fugitive1201 1 year ago 2
@fugitive1201 - lol ... but it was so tight. The cable is fun to make and is an impressive performer.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
Not the greatest soldering technique. The soldering iron should heat the work, then you apply the solder. Doing your way can result in "cold" solder joints, where the solder melts but doesn't really fuse to the conductor or the plug. You MUST heat the plug connections so they are hot enough to melt the solder.
In addition, you need to really hold everything still as you do this, so the 1 hand method is no good. If the cable moves at all as the solder cools, you can end up with a cold joint.
larrybud 1 year ago
@larrybud - My 25 years of professional soldering (most of those years MIL-SPEC qualified) has allowed me to experiment with different soldering techniques. This "one-handed" technique is never to be used as a primary soldering method. Rather it is a "work around" for the casual soldering hobbyist who doesn't have the exotic holding clamps that professionals have. If done correctly (using flux), the quality of the connection utilizing this technique is effective, reliable and time saving.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@larrybud have you ever tried building a cable? too much heat from heating the work can melt the insulation in the cable and lead to shorts. the quicker and less hot the better
monkeyxx 1 year ago
@monkeyxx - answer - yes. And I'm able to provide helpful information that the casual builder can use to successfully build great cables for themselves.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@monkeyxx Yes, built many a cable in my day. You don't need to hold the iron on there forever.
The technique I am speaking of is common practice, even when soldering solid state electronics (ICs, transistors, etc).
larrybud 11 months ago
Very nice cord. I got pretty much this same set up and wow. Took me little bit to get the soldering down, but I'm getting better. Thanx for the great vid by the way it helps a lot.
dellinger08 1 year ago
TRIM...THOSE...NAILS.
Thanks for the video...
thehornypuppy 1 year ago
@thehornypuppy - the long nails are for my life as a closet classical guitarist ... and hybrid picking. I have tried the glue on nails but they feel really weird when playing.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV Oh yeah i know what you mean. i'm sorry sometimes i write in a very rude way.
On that note...i just can't stand to see long nails. At the very least you keep yours clean. I give my girlfriend a hard time because of that. Anyways...thanks again, your channel is very helpful :3
thehornypuppy 1 year ago
close your eyes and start the video at 8:35 its fucking hillarious!
commetsmasher 1 year ago 49
@commetsmasher - yea yea ... "ohhh, that's tight" ... you naughty naughty man. I've tried to sneak in the same line into every video since but the editing guy catches it every time since. I need a new catch phrase.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@commetsmasher
LoL, it is rather funny...
ThePcm81 6 months ago
@commetsmasher Rofl, I noticed how he made all those sounds but the closing my eyes experience took it to a whole new level.
Frutoses 5 months ago
@commetsmasher That's what she said.
dalevanmail 4 months ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
wow nice you wear glasses when you cut a cable... waht could happen ? :)) looser
snitsferland 1 year ago
@snitsferland - It is good practice to put on safety glasses as soon as the work is started, and remove them when the work is completed. That way one is less likely to forget to put the glasses on when needed. Additionally, when cutting wire, the force needed to pinch through the wire can cause the unsecured lead to fly a good distance, causing a potential eye hazard. I wouldn't want anyone to loose an eye.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago 6
Bravo! nice nice video i made cables in past but here in cancun mexico i cant find amphenol conector or tech flex ..so i make my cables just with cable and neutrik or swichcraft plugs and termofit i also use flukes XD
que buen video me gusto mucho .. yo aprendi a hacer cables pero yo no conocia la malla de colores que pones
great vid!!
pinchimike 1 year ago
@pinchimike - thank you for your kind words. TubeDepot does ship product to Mexico if you ever want to try the techflex or amphenol connectors.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
Is it just me, or was he using the cable you built for him at the very beginning of the video?
Glockenator 1 year ago
@Glockenator - yea, it is. The previous nights video didn't work well so we came back for a second night of filming and I forgot the "broken" cable. So, I had to use the super cable. Good catch though ...
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
just got my cable items put it together and made a copy of the cable in the video excellent service fast shipping and great buy for the price Thanks TubeDepotTv
halo3628 1 year ago
@halo3628 - fantastic to hear. Send me a photo of you playing guitar with the new cable.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@halo3628 - you made a great response video ... thanks.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
Hey TubeDepotTV do you have any suggestions on the Neutrik silent plugs
halo3628 1 year ago
@halo3628 - they are very cool plugs and they work. When you remove the plug from your instrument, the plug automatically shorts the input to the shield. The result is no open cable noise or pops in the system. This is a very good feature if you have a battery in your guitar and you regularly disconnect the input cable to conserve battery life. If you have a standard guitar, having a shorting plug probably isn't as important since the plug usually just stays in the guitar.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
Do they sell right angle 1/4" connectors?! Any info would be greatly appreciated.
alvarez1284 1 year ago
@alvarez1284 - we do sell a Neutrik right angle connector. You will find it with the other 1/4" connectors on our website.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV THANKS!!!!!!!
alvarez1284 1 year ago
Funny in the begging of the video he was using the cable that was made during the video
halo3628 1 year ago
@halo3628 - you are very correct. Our first take (the previous night's gig) didn't turn out well, the audio was quite terrible. So, we came back the second night and forgot the "broken" cable at the office. We had given Brian (the guitarist in the video) the constructed cable earlier so that was the one we used. Such is the "smoke and mirrors" of video making. Great observation ...
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
Is it ok to leave the flux without removing it? If so, what do you use and/or how do you remove it? I always thought flux had to be removed in some kind of bath. Thanks in advance.
w3bt3k 1 year ago
@w3bt3k - it depends on the flux. Most fluxes used for electronics work are meant to be left on. These are the "no clean" fluxes. The rosin based fluxes can be left in place as well but I recommend cleaning them off with alcohol. In avionics, fluxes are always cleaned off but that mil-spec soldering requirement isn't as critical here.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
Shouldn't you heat the plug and connector for a longer time before you solder it?
skurtix 1 year ago
@skurtix - good question and the short answer is - depends on the quality of the soldering iron. The function of the soldering iron is to apply the necessary heat for the connection to properly accept the solder. I'm using a temperature controlled soldering iron which senses the temperature drop at the tip and applies more power to keep the tip at a constant temperature. Therefore my iron will heat a connection quicker than a non-temperature controlled iron. Hopefully that is helpful.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
I've had a three cables but all them are broken inside, what I can do?
westbohan 1 year ago
@westbohan - Let's see if we can help. First, determine that it is the cable and not something else like the guitar or amp. Once you have narrowed it to the cable, most cable problems are usually at the plugs. Inspect your plugs for broken solder connection or shorted wires. Also look for loose rivets or broken tip / sleeve insulators, especially with switchcraft plugs. A less common problem will be the actual wire, which if broken, I recommend replacing the entire cable.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV My dad use that technique or is it technigue, what ever.
westbohan 1 year ago
@westbohan - it's good to hear when a dad is considered cool by his children.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV Haha :D
westbohan 1 year ago
Do you know if pickups or the wires can go bad? I found my dad's old bass that he had taken apart. The bass has been sitting in disrepair in my basement for the last 10 years. He removed the pickups from their knobs and i was just wondering if i could just solder them back up and go from there.
jaj145 1 year ago
@jaj145 - pickups and wires don't usually go bad with age. I recommend seeking out a wiring diagram of the instrument and rewiring the pickups to the pots and switches and output jack and see if you can get sound. If not, you may need to do some troubleshooting.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV Thanks for the info, I'll see what i can do.
jaj145 1 year ago
GUITAR PLAYER HERE ALSO!!!
ok i like this video very much also =)
iwannarockon2010 1 year ago
Rob loved your video ,i placed an order and went with the neutrik plugs because i wanted a right angle plug, i just noticed the ends are different, how do you make you cable attachment,where do you solder? ,can you use neutrik?, if not why didn't order person tell me that. thanks steve
sebnn 1 year ago
@sebnn - glad you like the video. The neutrik plugs are great. They assemble differently however the soldering is very similar. Make sure to put the back shells on the cable before soldering the ends. If you have any troubles, contact me at TubeDepot.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
Rob, thanks for this video. I'm a new guitar enthusiast, and for me, I'd rather be a hands on kind of guy and make my own cables rather than buying the pre-made, mass produced stuff. This video answered all of my questions, so next pay day, I'll be ordering some cable and connectors from Tube Depot. Thanks again.
stealth71C 1 year ago
@stealth71C - glad that we could be of assistance. I look forward to seeing your order and if you get a chance, send me a photo or two of your finished cable.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV Thanks Rob. I just received my Amphenol (Solid Cables) connectors today, so now its goggle time! Thanks for the great service.
stealth71C 1 year ago
@stealth71C - awesome ... I'm glad you like the Amphenol connectors. Solid Cable is an awesome company, if you get a chance check out their website. In my opinion, they have the best cables.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV Very nice connectors for sure. I'm sitting here right now using Rob's secret one-handed soldering technique. Works great.
stealth71C 1 year ago
@stealth71C - excellent ... keep spreading the secrets to all the fellow cable builders.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
where can i get those plugs?
holayadios95 1 year ago
@holayadios95 - we have these plugs in stock here at tubedepot(dot)com
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV Do you send to another countries? like a state of mexico near the Us border near Texas?
holayadios95 1 year ago
@holayadios95 - certainly, we ship to most of world.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV and how much would it cost?
holayadios95 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV to torreon ciahula mexico 27010
holayadios95 1 year ago
Not proper soldering. it worked here, but in general, you DO NOT want to carry the solder to the connector via the iron tip.
trixdropd 1 year ago
@trixdropd - Great comment. Since most DIY'ers are soldering on their dining room table without the benefit of a vice, this technique is shown as a method of soldering when one hand is being used to hold the parts steady and the other hand is holding the soldering iron. I DO NOT recommend this as a primary means of soldering and to make this work properly, it does require additional flux. Overall, as you well stated ... "it worked here", and it will work for other as well.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
how mch are the machines u use? (:
camposizzy 1 year ago
@camposizzy - we sell all the tools I used in this video, except for the Panavise wide opening vise model 350. I picked that up from another online vendor years ago. They sell for around $80 each but they are very helpful.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@tiomakeke - I've been trying to quietly insert that same saying into each of the following videos but the editing guy keeps catching and deleting them. But, I will continue my resolve ... thanks for the great shout out.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@muchmckeon - yes
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
Brother you make that look soooo easy! Two ?
1) is there an alternative to buying an expensive heat gun
2) what was the name of the device that you used to hold the plug?
Wish you sold a complete how to video!
Thank you kindly Sir
jesusfreakster101 1 year ago
@jesusfreakster101 - I promise, it is easy. All it takes is a little practice and a good soldering iron and tools. In place of a heat gun you can use an open flame from a candle. But protect the techflex from the flame with aluminum foil or the techflex will melt immediately. The device I used to hold the plug is made by Panavise. Search them on the web and you will find many great holding devices from them.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
This is Awesome, thanks alot for this! Could you please tell me which size of FlexoPET you've used? It did seem too wide for the cable when you were inserting it, but i've never used tech flex so I 've no idea :)
yosoyTKM 1 year ago
@yosoyTKM - I'm glad you liked the video. I'm using the 1/4" expandable sleeving. It will work from 1/8" - 7/16". To install the sleeving, expand the inserted end so that the cable will slide through it. In its natural state, it contracts tightly and locks onto the cable pretty tightly. TubeDepot has several different colors. They can be found under "tech supplies" on our website.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago