Looking for the Idiot's Guide to Making Cables

Dragonlord · #1 06-20-2007, 10:56 AM

Yes, I searched, read a lot of interesting threads, but what I'm looking for is this: Is there a site (or thread I missed) with detailed, step by step instructions on how to make (solder) your own instrument cables? I was thinking of ordering a lot in different sizes from Bayou as I'm about to make my first pedalboard, and I thought "why not learn to make my own with the same cable and connectors"?

Rattman · #2 06-20-2007, 12:42 PM

Do what alot of us did and are still doing: Jump in with both feet! Order some good connectors, and there are plenty of online places that sell excellent connectors. Also get some crappy connectors, and crappy cables (recycle?) and finally some very decent cable stock for your 'advanced' projects.

Buy a decent soldering 'rig'. I can recommend Weller products for one.. and some good 2 or 3% 'silver solder' for 'fine electronics'. Then just start making cables, one after the other using the crummy cable stock and Asian connectors that only appear to be "good". A multimeter will also help you measure your successes and inevitable failures. After you start seeing some consistency in your handywork, then you begin using your good stock for your "keepers" that you'll use for the pedalboard and other uses. And I also like adding coloured 'heatshrink' to all of my creations.. maybe that will also float your boat for a 'personal touch'.

Dragonlord · #3 06-20-2007, 02:57 PM

My father already has a soldering device, so I think that will do... actually, those George Ls look pretty nice as well. What is the "heatshrink" you're talking about? Sorry, I'm greek and I don't get it...

Steve · #4 06-20-2007, 03:16 PM

Not for nuthin' but, I can solder with the best of 'em...have all the soldering toy's...make them for other people...when I need one,

I get my cables from Butch.

Dragonlord · #5 06-20-2007, 03:19 PM

Well, the cons of that are these: I will have to order them all at once to save shipping (and future waiting time) and also buy more than I need, just in case. So, with shipping and possibly import taxes, it could end up pretty ugly.