Cable length

[bassybass]

(I guess this is the appropriate forum for this one)

I have a couple 15' instrument cables that I use---in most cases, it's all the length I need (bass-cable-pedalboard-cable-amp). I'm usually parked near my amp and pretty stationary. But I have some shows coming up on some bigger stages and it's the kind of band where I need to be more active on stage. I see most manufacturers max cables are of the 30' variety. I'm sure I could make do with that (otherwise I guess I'd start looking into going wireless but it's out of my budget for now). I could also make cables any length I want. Been scoping out the Planet Waves kit . . .
At what point is an instrument cable just too long(i.e. signal loss, more prone to shorts, etc.)? Do people use like, 50' cables?

[line6man]

If you have a preamp to lower the output impedance, cable length is not much of an issue.

[jazzblade]

25 is a good working length. Longer than that you need better cables because you begin to increase noise/hum susceptibility and the attenuation of higher frequencies. If your running between your effects to your amp longer runs would prob be ok because the signals is buffered and stronger. Longer cables also increase the chances of falling flat on your face at a gig. They really get in the way.

[Nitzleplick]

This topic sounded dirtier in my head.

[bassybass]

Originally Posted by Nitzleplick

This topic sounded dirtier in my head.

I know, I mean like, "when is long, just TOO long?".....

I'm using a passive bass, so yeah, I guess I'll get a new 20-25 footer for the instrument to pedalboard, and then maybe a 30' so I can be sure I can keep my pedalboard up at my position at my mic. And bring my 15's too of course. I do have a 20 footer that I've owned for ages that was a cheapo at the time, and has seen lots of use(abuse), so I don't want to trust it . . .

[jazzblade]

Too long would be when you start picking up the local Christian channel at a screemo concert, or it affects your tone.

I think I made up a 50 once because the cable was free. MAN it was heavy, hum prone and put a lot of pressure on the cable ends.