The design concept behind the Isolda cables draws from solid engineering theory and fundamental truths as old as electricity itself that govern its behaviour and transmission along any wire, no matter its length, whether between cities or the short distances in your audio setup.
The audio industry has primarily ignored transmission line theory, but we have discovered that impedance matching is necessary for us to enjoy the delicate details of sound detected by the most sensitive of instruments, our ears.
Putting transmission line theory into practice allows us to deliver pure sound impulses with an absolute minimum of distortion, while most other speaker cables create micro reflections that ricochet between the source and the speaker, smearing and veiling the pure sound of music.
The Isolda cable avoids these problems through its unique geometry, ensuring that the the impedance of the amplifier and speaker are closely matched, providing a clarity unmatched by any other cable design.
Part of the solution is impedance matching, an engineering concept that is integral in understanding when creating the world’s most natural-sounding cable. If required, we don’t hesitate in recommending using Isolda speaker cables in unequal lengths as the listener will find the sound from each speaker exactly the same, regardless of length.
Townshend Isolda DCT Speaker Cable use very closely spaced insulated flat copper conductors in a polyester braid sheath. Unlike most speaker cables, its close spacing means it is virtually immune to Radio Frequency Interference (RFI). In addition, they are bespoke made by hand in small batches. When connected to your system, the result is the delivery of genuinely silent backgrounds, incredible 3D imaging, and bass with a solidity and power that is truly seismic.
Testimonials
WOW! I thought I would never find my way out of the 'Alice in Wonderland' confusion which seems to be hifi cables.
“I have spent an evening in astonishment at the performance of my system with your speaker cable installed. The utter naturalness and balance and soundstage and on and on, WOW!
I thought I would never find my way out of the ‘Alice in Wonderland’ confusion which seems to be hifi cables, now I believe that you have the answer with impedance matching and the amp end widget.”
What is the second most significant factor in creating a natural-sounding cable? Geometry!
The Townshend Isolda cables unique geometry, or how a cable is constructed, is the major factor in attaining a truly natural sound. How these two metal wires are arranged allows electricity to flow from the amp to the speakers. Townshend Isolda DCT Speaker Cables use very closely spaced insulated flat copper conductors in a polyester braid sheath. Unlike the majority of speaker cables, our cable’s close spacing means it is virtually immune to Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) and presents an impedance that closely matches that of the loudspeaker.
The result is bass with a solidity and power that is truly seismic, accompanied by genuinely silent backgrounds and incredible 3D imaging. You are guaranteed to enjoy the result.
I had no idea quite how good this cable was going to be when it was sent to me. It opened up the sound and tamed the music in such a way that it was more honest than I have heard for a long while, and although not the cheapest is a very cost-effective upgrade to your HiFi. A much more honest performance than I thought a cable could give and therefore is highly recommended.
“This is the speaker cable I have been using for some time but only got around to reviewing this year. I can’t find anything better and I have tried, nothing comes close when it comes to three dimensionality of soundstage and control, depth and power in the bass, it’s also more than able in the timing department. The EDCT treatment puts it even further ahead of the competition”. Jason Kennedy – TheEar.net
Unequal lengths of cable will sound identical
All other cables on the market will sound different depending on the length. Degrading as the cable length is increased. Isolda however sounds virtually identical no matter the length required meaning if you require uneven lengths for your set up this will in no way compromise the sound.
Matching the impedance of speaker with the amplifier (around 8ohms) you stop the propagation of reflected sound ricocheting up and down the cable an infinitum. The result is a natural sound.
Non impedance cable will produce micro ringing and veiling and smearing of the musical presentation.
Impedance matched cables deliver pure music without the ringing and echoes associated with non impedence matched cables.
If you can measure it on an oscilloscope the human ear can perceive it!
Isolda cable
when the cable is correct
By matching the cable impedance to the speaker impedance you preserve the square wave reading.
Measure difference in voltage
Extrapolating Oscilloscope measurements into a graph
Measuring the voltage difference between one end of the cable and the other to see if there is any loss or ringing shown as a rise in the graph. A flat line (Isolda) shows no ringing or distortion.
Ringing on non-impedance matched cable
The square wave appears to be 'ringing'
When the impedance of the cable does not match the impedance of the loudspeaker it results in transients being reflected back and forth. The result is ringing, as easily seen on the oscilloscope. If you can see it, you can hear it!
If It isn't Broke
Don't Fix It!
Townshend Audio have made the Isolda Cables unchanged for over 20-years. They are designed specifically to neither add nor subtract anything from the sound of the music and are renowned for providing a natural listening experience. The square wave in the photo shows that the sound is uncorrupted by the Isolda cable ie you put a square wave in and you get a square wave out.
Using Isolda cable in your system will ensure the music signal is related faithfully along the audio chain. So many systems out there will leave the cable design to chance and all the sonic improvements gained by choosing well-appointed can be compromised as a result. components can be compromised here.
Square wave in square wave out = peace of mind
Geometry Matters
Max Townshend has long argued that the most important factor in a speaker cable is its geometry: the way the two conductors are arranged. This is many times more critical than the conductor and the insulation because the wrong geometry causes high-frequency distortion that results in a hard, edgy sound. This concept is Analysed in great detail in the paper by Max Townshend
The Answer? Impedance Matching!
In electronics, impedance matching is the practice of designing the input impedance of an electrical load or the output impedance of its corresponding signal source to maximize the power transfer or minimize signal reflection from the load. Like a gentle sea lapping against a sandy shallow shore, the electricity is allowed to arrive and dissipate without agitating the water. For this reason Townshend Isolda Impedance Matched cable has a characteristic impedance close to 8ohm for optimum loudspeaker matching and minimum reflections in the audio band that smear the sound. This greatly reduces these reflections. As a result your music is delivered with a solid foundation, clean and clear mids, and a natural top end.
Nothing is added or subtracted from the sound, Townshend Isolda Impedance matched cables are just right!
Why Does This Matter?
When a music transient travels through an impedance-matched cable to a load, 100% of the transient is absorbed by the load (speaker). If there is an impedance mismatch, only a small proportion, (about 0.1%) of the signal is absorbed by the load. The other 99.9% of the signal is reflected back to the source, (amplifier) where it is all reflected back down the cable to the load, where another 0.1% of the remainder is absorbed by the load. After multiple reflections extending over a time, all of the transient is absorbed by the load.
Even though the signal travels at 0.7 the speed of light, the multiple reflections on every transient add together to give an audibly distorted sound and account for the loss shown. The greater the mismatch, the worse the effect.
Form Follows Function
The cable geometry is comprised of two flat strips, a construction that confines the signal’s EM field within the cable and minimizes the effect of surrounding objects and interfering fields. This is inherent in any signal passing from input to output, but Max’s solution avoids the echoes and reflections that are manifest when the strict criteria of cable topology are ignored.
A Cable theory paper: The Sound of Music and why cables matter has been written and researched by Max Townshend and gives an in-depth analysis postulating the reasons for the audible differences between cables and their inherent geometry.
Cable construction is paramount
Construction
Most cables on the market today have the wrong geometry and the echoes and reflections these create make a system seem edgy and bright, fatiguing and irritating. Even the most desirable and expensive systems on the planet are compromised when these reflections are ignored.
The Isolda cable was designed by Max to match the characteristic impedance of the speaker with the characteristic impedance of the cable.
Development
The original topology of the Townshend Isolda cable was made with six parallel sets of 50ohm coax and required 900 ends to terminate in a pair hence the name Isolda, from Max being asked, “What’re you doing?”
“I solder!”
Isolda also fits in well with our Arthurian legend theme after Tristan and Isolde.
Our current design has been winning awards since its incarnation in 2002 and has quietly been gaining favored status with audiophiles and reviewers ever since.
Designers
Max is unapologetic about questioning popular, long-held beliefs on the behaviour of electricity, particularly within short lengths of speaker cable by rigorous application of telegraph line theory. Joining other distinguished free thinkers, including Swiss electrical engineer Hervé Delétraz, Richard Black and (Professor) Jack Dinsdale.
Geometry
Topology
The unique Isolda cable geometry comprising two flat insulated copper strips closely placed together prevents any deterioration of the frequency characteristic in the high-pass region, as well as improves the response characteristic and waveform integrity, creating the most natural-sounding cables on the planet free from coloration.
Copper
Enhanced Deep CRYogenic treatment
By focussing on metallurgy and developing fractal™ wire treatment Townshend have managed to developed a cable that offers the discerning audiophile more sonic purity than was ever possible before.
Impedence Matching
8 om
By matching the cable impedance to the speaker impedance from 5kHz and up, between 10 and 15 ohms, reflections in this critical range are greatly reduced. This leads to an unmistakably natural sound without blur and the associated fatigue.
Some Longer In-Depth Reviews
The No-Compromise Option for Sound Quality
Our speaker cable is constructed entirely by hand in our workshops. This engineering process allows you to achieve the most transparent and neutral connection between amplifier and speakers, you honestly will not believe your ears when you try them.
Frequently Asked Questions: Townshend Audio Isolda Speaker Cable
Q: What is the Townshend Audio Isolda Speaker Cable?
A: The Isolda Speaker Cable is a long-standing favourite from Townshend Audio, designed to deliver a natural, undistorted sound. It features two closely spaced, deep cryogenically treated copper strips, impedance-matched to typical speaker loads, and wrapped in a braided sheath for a transparent, fatigue-free listening experience.
Q: How does the Isolda cable differ from generic speaker cables?
A: Generic cables are often just stranded wire with no regard for impedance, leading to signal reflections that smear sound. The Isolda uses a flat, ribbon-like design with two copper strips 0.07mm apart, impedance-matched at 8 ohms, and treated with our Enhanced Deep Cryogenic Treatment (EDCT). This cuts distortion, RFI, and vibration, giving you solid bass, clear mids, and a proper 3D soundstage—things generic cables rarely achieve.
Q: What’s the Enhanced Deep Cryogenic Treatment (EDCT) process?
A: EDCT involves slowly cooling the copper to -190°C, holding it there, then warming it back up. It refines the copper’s structure, reducing imperfections for better conductivity and a smoother, more detailed sound. It’s a step beyond standard cryogenic treatment, unique to Townshend.
Q: Why choose the Isolda over other premium cables?
A: It’s about science, not hype. The Isolda’s low inductance, high capacitance, and impedance matching eliminate distortion that many premium cables ignore or even exaggerate. You get the music as it was recorded—neutral and honest, not coloured or fatiguing.
Technical Questions
Q: What does impedance matching mean for the Isolda cable?
A: It means the cable’s characteristic impedance (8 ohms) matches typical speaker loads, reducing signal reflections that cause distortion—like echoes in the audio. Most cables have impedances of 100-400 ohms, a mismatch that muddies the sound. The Isolda keeps it clean and precise.
Q: My speakers are 4 ohms. Will the Isolda still work?
A: Yes, it’ll perform brilliantly. Designed around an 8-ohm average, the Isolda still cuts reflections and noise with 4- or 6-ohm speakers. The difference is subtle—far less than with generic cables. We can explore custom options if you’d like a perfect match.
Q: Is it compatible with all amplifiers?
A: Pretty much. The amplifier-end box has inductors to stabilise even tricky amps that don’t like high-capacitance cables (like some older Naims). The speaker-end Zobel network keeps impedance steady. It’s safe and effective with valve or solid-state setups.
Q: Is the cable directional?
A: No need to worry—the Isolda works either way. Just connect the marked amplifier-end box to your amp, and you’re set.
Q: Does length affect the sound quality?
A: Not really. Thanks to its impedance matching, the sound stays consistent up to 10 metres. Unequal lengths work just as well—handy if your speakers are at different distances.
Performance and Benefits
Q: What sound improvements does the Isolda offer?
A: You’ll hear deep, controlled bass, a wide soundstage, and mids that feel real—vocals and instruments especially. It’s calm yet detailed, with no harshness or fatigue. It’s about hearing what’s on the recording, not what the cable adds.
Q: How does it compare to the Fractal cable?
A: The Isolda’s a classic—reliable and neutral. The Fractal builds on that with extra damping, a conduit around the copper, and our secret Fractal treatment, digging even deeper into silence and detail. If you love the Isolda, the Fractal’s the next step up.
Q: Will it transform a basic setup?
A: It’ll show what your system can do, but it won’t fix a poor setup. With decent kit, you’ll hear tighter sound and more depth. It shines brightest with quality components.
Q: How does it handle RFI and vibration?
A: The close conductor spacing blocks RFI, while the braided sheath and EDCT copper damp vibrations. You get silent backgrounds and crisp sound—generic cables often let interference creep in.
Usage and Installation
Q: How do I set up the Isolda cable?
A: Plug the amplifier-end box into your amp and the other into your speakers—banana plugs or spades, your choice. It’s stiff but bends into place. No burn-in needed—just listen.
Q: Are cable elevators necessary?
A: Not strictly. The design handles vibrations well, but elevators can add a bit more isolation if your floor’s prone to shakes. It’s up to you.
Q: Can I use different lengths for each speaker?
A: Yes, no problem. The sound’s the same whether it’s 2 metres or 5. Saves you coiling up excess cable.
Q: What termination options are there?
A: Standard is piggy-back banana plugs, but we offer spades or custom connectors. Let us know when ordering.
Purchasing and Support
Q: How much is the Isolda cable?
A: Starts at £1,141 for a 3-metre pair with bananas. Price varies with length and terminations—contact us for a quote.
Q: Any chance of a discount?
A: I could sort you out with a 20% discount if that suits—thought it might be worth a mention. Give us a call to chat.
Q: Where can I get it?
A: Straight from us at Townshend Audio or via authorised dealers. Hit our website or ring +44 (0) 208 979 2155.
Q: What’s the warranty like?
A: 12 months, standard. We’re confident in the build—any bother, we’ll fix it.
Q: Can I return it if it’s not right?
A: Yes, 30 days to try it. If it’s not your thing, send it back in original shape for a refund. Check our Returns Policy.
Q: How quick is shipping?
A: Orders before 4:30 PM Monday to Friday (not holidays) usually ship same day, first-class post. UK next-day is common; international varies—see our Shipping Policy.
Miscellaneous
Q: Does it need breaking in?
A: No, it’s good to go from day one. Any settling is down to your ears adjusting, not the cable.
Q: Is it worth the cost?
A: If you want unadulterated sound and have the system to back it up, yes. It’s not cheap, but it’s a solid investment in audio truth.
Q: Can I demo it first?
A: Some dealers offer demos—give us a shout, and we’ll find a spot or sort something if we can.
Q: What if I’ve got more questions?
A: We’re here. Email mail@townshendaudio.com or call +44 (0) 208 979 2155. Nothing’s too minor.
Discover the Townshend Cable Fleet Website
Ready to Try?
Still not convinced to buy Isolda? Then simply try our 28-day trial. Just let us know about your system and the length of cable you require and we’ll send you a pair to try. If after 28-days you’re still not convinced then send them back to us. We’d also appreciate a review – like this one from Graham:
“I would just like to thank you for your excellent products and truly excellent service. I really appreciated the opportunity to try out the Isolda Speaker cable, before purchasing. Both Isolda products are truly world class. It is a fabulous cable, very natural as well as revealing. It just sounds whole, without seeming to emphasize or recess any part of the frequency range. It also looks discreet and is nice to handle (unlike some others I have owned). The sound using Isolda to bi-amp Sugden A21a and A21p amps is fabulous – open, natural and controlled. There is no hint of sibilance or brightness, yet the sound is extremely detailed. I was interested to note, at the hi-fi show last weekend, that Sugden was using Isolda speaker cable and I/C to demo their new Masterclass amp, and they seemed very impressed with it. Also, I am still delighted with the Seismic Sink Stand and Speaker Stands I purchased earlier this year. They work consistently well in different environs. They are also well made, practical and look the business – even my partner is beginning to like them (well, so she tells me anyway!!!).
Ready to Buy?
Yes please send me a pair of Isolda Cables.
(If you have a problem specifying your exact requirement please give us a call Tel 44 (0) 208 979 2155)