Copper is the most commonly used conductor in audio cables due to its excellent electrical conductivity and affordability. However, not all copper is the same. The type of copper used in audiophile cables can impact signal transmission, durability, and overall sound quality. In this article, we will explore the most common types of copper used in audio cables, including OFC (Oxygen-Free Copper), OCC (Ohno Continuous Cast Copper), and other specialized variations.

Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC)

• Description: OFC is high-purity copper that has undergone a refining process to reduce oxygen content to as low as 0.001%.
• Advantages:
  • Better conductivity than standard copper.
  • Lower oxidation and corrosion over time.
  • Widely used in mid-range and high-quality audio cables.
• Disadvantages:
  • Still contains microscopic grain boundaries, which can affect signal transmission.
• Best for: General-purpose audiophile cables, home audio setups.

Ohno Continuous Cast Copper (OCC Copper)

• Description: Developed by Professor Ohno of the Chiba Institute of Technology in Japan, OCC copper uses a specialized casting process to create extremely long and pure copper crystals, minimizing grain boundaries.
• Advantages:
  • Ultra-high purity (99.999% or higher), significantly reducing signal distortion.
  • Fewer grain boundaries improve signal flow and transmission efficiency.
  • Preferred in high-end audiophile cables for its enhanced clarity and detail.
• Disadvantages:
  • More expensive than OFC.
  • Requires special manufacturing techniques.
• Best for: High-fidelity headphone cables, premium speaker and interconnect cables.

Linear Crystal Copper (LCC)

• Description: A high-purity copper similar to OCC, LCC is produced with an emphasis on reducing microscopic imperfections in the conductor.
• Advantages:
  • Lower resistance than OFC.
  • Improves signal integrity and reduces loss.
  • Often used in audiophile-grade interconnects and speaker cables.
• Disadvantages:
  • Less common than OFC or OCC.
• Best for: Mid-to-high-end audio cables where improved transmission is required.

Silver-Plated Copper (SPC)

• Description: A combination of high-purity copper with a thin layer of silver plating, aiming to improve high-frequency signal transmission.
• Advantages:
  • Enhanced conductivity, as silver is the best conductor of electricity.
  • Brighter and clearer high frequencies in audio reproduction.
• Disadvantages:
  • Can be more expensive than pure copper.
  • Some users find it too bright or harsh in sound signature.
• Best for: Headphone cables, digital audio cables, high-frequency applications.

Silver-Infused Copper & Hybrid Copper Alloys

• Description: These materials combine trace amounts of silver or other metals with copper to enhance conductivity and tonal balance.
• Advantages:
  • Better signal purity than standard copper.
  • Some blends improve warmth and natural tonality.
• Disadvantages:
  • More costly than standard OFC.
  • Some audiophiles prefer the sound of pure OCC copper over hybrid alloys.
• Best for: Custom and boutique audiophile cables.

Comparison Table: Copper Types in Audio Cables

Conclusion

The type of copper used in audiophile cables significantly affects signal purity, conductivity, and overall sound performance. While OFC copper provides a solid balance of price and performance, OCC copper offers the best signal transmission with minimal distortion. Silver-plated and hybrid coppers cater to specific sonic preferences, making them ideal for certain applications.

At Zikman, we offer a selection of cables using high-quality OFC, OCC, and other premium conductors, ensuring optimal sound clarity and durability for every listener.