Blog 26 | Quick guide to Audio Cables | Part 4



January 6, 2024 - Posted by Mash Maximus

In this fourth and final installment of “Quick Guide to Audio Cables”, we will discuss Multi-Channel audio snakes. Audio snakes are also referred to as cable “harness” or “looms”. All names are interchangeable but we will be using “snake” to refer to multi-channel cables for continuity and simplicity.


What is a multi-channel snake?

Multi-Channel snakes are larger cables comprised of multiple smaller cables. In this specific case, we are referring to the individual channels as smaller cables. When multiple smaller cables are wrapped in an outer jacket, then we call it a snake. Generally, multi-channel snake cables are meant for mic or line level signals. While there are a few brands that make dedicated instrument level snakes, these are not as common and sort of hard to find.

Use cases:

Multi-channel snakes are most commonly used for mic/line level signals in both studios and live situations. Since we are Pro Audio LA, we will focus on the studio use type. Mogami is our favorite brand for multi channel snakes as their cables have developed a great reputation for being low noise, easy to handle and relatively flat sounding. Mogami makes a 2-channel snake (2930), 4-channel snake (2931), 8-channel snake (2932), 12-channel snake (2933), 16-channel (2934) and 24-channel (2936). If you browse through our Multi-channel snake section you will notice that there are channel counts not listed here. This is because we use the aforementioned snakes and modify them to become the numbers offered on our website. Eg. We can take a section of 4-channel snake and cut off one channel to make it into a 3-channel snake.


We can also make AES/EBU snakes with Mogami’s digitally rated cable, 3162. Cables rated for AES/EBU can be used for analog applications but the opposite is not possible. One cannot use analog cable to transmit digital (AES, S/PDIF) signals. Some of our clients prefer the sound of Mogami 3162 and choose it for their multi-channel needs.

One of the most ubiquitous uses for multi-channel snakes is to carry mic signals from an array of microphones, whether they be in a live room or in a booth, back to the control room or desk where the preamps or interface/converters are. While many users choose simple XLR to XLR snakes for this application, we recommend using floor/wall boxes, wall panels or rack panels for a tidier approach.


Something worth noting about Mogami multi-channel snake cable is that it is specifically meant for microphone or line level signals. Trying to pass instrument level signals (guitars, pedals, bass) can yield less than ideal results as the individual channels are not adequately insulated to pass unbalanced instrument level signals. Check out the previous edition of this 4 part series to learn more about unbalanced and instrument level cables.

We are Pro Audio LA. From our humble beginnings in a Hollywood apartment kitchen to our multi-person cable shop team in our Glendale facility, we know cables. Its what we do – its what keeps our lights on and puts blisters on our fingers. If you have questions about cabling, please reach out to us. We may take a minute to respond, what with all the blistered fingers and what not, but we will help you find the right cabling solution for your needs.