HDMI & Audio Cable FAQs
What kind of testing do your cables go through?
All of our III and V Series 1.5m and 2.5m HDMI cables are premium certified through HDMI.org and conform to the 2.0b specifications. We are relentless in our pursuit to optimize data transfer rate, resolution, and framerate to the highest possible standard. Every inch of every cable is tested. While our 5m cables go through the same testing procedure, HDMI.org does not offer certification for active cables, but rest assured they are built to the highest possible quality standard.
Austere 8K Ultra High-Speed HDMI cables were engineered to meet the specifications for the new 2.1 certifications.
Austere audio cables are built to our highest quality standards and are rigorously tested for noise filtering, signal strength, construction, and audio format optimization. We are passionate about providing you with an impeccable level of quality and performance.
All of our cables are stylish and sleek, and every design choice we make reflects our relentless commitment to performance and safety.
Are your products rated for in-wall installation?
Yes, our products can be used for in-wall installation when combined with AV-rated plastic conduit.
Are your products rated for outdoor use?
Yes, they are designed for outdoor use when equipped with a water-resistant cover. It's important to ensure that the cable connectors are adequately protected from outdoor elements, including water.
Why would I need your cables if I can get one for $5?
The quality of the cables that you use is just as important as the quality of the devices you are connecting. If you have an HDTV, you want to make sure that the HDMI cable you’re using to connect it to your media devices is also capable of transferring all of that data at an optimal, HDMI-certified level. Otherwise, you are not going to experience true HDR. The same concept applies to your audio devices.
Our cables are built for quality, and they are built to last. We are so committed to this that we back them with a lifetime guarantee. A $5 cable is not only not protected for life, but it’s also quite likely to break or fail.
How do I open the product?
Watch this short video to see how to slide off the packaging sleeve easily.
HDMI
What are the benefits of HDMI vs other kinds of AV connections?
HDMI has become the standard for the majority of AV products due to its effectiveness and easy installation. It can boast up to 4K resolution at 60hz, outperforming the now outdated and clunky composite cable by leaps and bounds. They have similar capabilities to Display Port (DP) cables, but HDMI is more widespread, as DP is more focused on computer monitors.
What’s the difference between the III Series and V Series HDMI cables?
Aesthetically, each series is designated by its color accent, and right now, we have copper accents for the III Series and sapphire blue for the V Series. The V Series also features our LinkFit Locking Connector to help secure the physical connection between your devices and prevent accidental disconnection. All of our HDMI cables are protected by our Kevlar WovenArmor; however, the V series has a bit more tensile strength because we also reinforced the inside of the cable with Kevlar. Finally, the silver-plated conductors on the V Series will help to improve audio performance.
Austere HDMI Cable Series Comparison Chart
What is the Gbps bandwidth on the 4K HDMI cables?
All Austere HDMI cables support 18 Gbps bandwidth, in addition to 4K@60FPS, HDR, and ARC. Also, all are specified to an HDMI.org certified level, so you can rest assured that you're going to get the highest quality connection available when you use our cables.
What is an Active HDMI cable? Why do I need it?
As cable lengths increase, the signal they carry decreases in strength. An active cable contains built-in electronic components that help to push the signal in longer cables. This boost ensures that the signal quality of our 5-meter HDMI cables is just as good as our 1.5-meter and 2.5-meter cable lengths.
Are your cables one-directional?
Austere 5-meter HDMI cables are one-directional. The source and TV connectors are clearly labeled on the ends of the cable. (Note: the end that says “TV” can also be connected to any display, including a computer monitor, projector, or other HDMI-compatible display).
Will I notice a difference between using a standard HDMI cable and a 4K HDMI cable on my 4K TV?
Yes. Not all cables can handle the data transfer rate required to sustain a true 4K picture. Only the HDMI.org certification label ensures that your cables will maintain that 4K@60hz quality.
What does premium certified cable mean? Is that important?
All of our III and V Series 1.5 and 2.5 HDMI cables are premium certified through HDMI.org and conform to the 2.0b specifications. Because HDMI certification requires high-quality performance, you can expect nothing less than a pristine signal when you use Austere HDMI cables. Not all HDMI cables on the market are HDMI-certified, but Austere holds itself to this high standard of performance.
What are the specifications of your 8K HDMI cables?
Austere 8K HDMI cable is distinctly engineered to meet the highest standards of 8K specifications, including a bandwidth of 48Gbps, and can carry resolutions up to 10K and 8K60, 4K120 frame rates. Our 8K HDMI cables were carefully designed by our product development team to meet the current specifications for the 2.1 certification.
What is High-Fidelity ARC?
ARC (audio return channel) is essentially a 2-way communication between devices over a single HDMI connection. It simplifies setup and allows your TV and audio equipment to “talk to each other.” For example, you don't need a remote for the TV and another for your soundbar; ARC will allow you to control both with 1 remote. ARC also enhances audio performance in streaming applications.
What is High Fidelity eARC?
eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) is the next generation of ARC. It’s a feature implemented in the most recent HDMI 2.1 specification. The main benefit of eARC is a big boost in bandwidth and speed. This allows you to send higher-quality audio from your TV to a soundbar or AV receiver. Austere VII Series 8K HDMI cables support eARC.
AUDIO
Why do I need an optical cable?
Optical cables offer faster data transfer between your source and audio devices, which generally means there will be little to no lag or delay, and the signal itself is clearer and less “noisy” than other cables. Additionally, their pliability makes them smaller and easier to route between your devices.
Why do the optical cables have "Pure Gold connectors" if they are light transmission cables?
It is true that the actual data transmission is done using light, so normal electrical contacts, which require gold for a reliable connection, are not used. However, we use cast metal housings for extended durability and to maintain the look and style of all of our V Series cables. The gold coating keeps the surface looking beautiful and will not allow any corrosion over time in high-humidity environments. Dedicated to much more than just value and functionality, we are committed to creating products that are designed with intent, from superior materials to the injection of colors. aDesign is the consistent standard upon which our design team honors and respects these core values.
I’m having trouble plugging in my optical audio cable, and it doesn’t seem to fit. Help?
Out of the box, Austere optical audio cables come with a protective lens cap on the tip of the connector. Be sure to remove the cap before you plug it in.
What gauge speaker wire are Austere Banana Adapters compatible with?
Austere Banana Adapters are compatible with 10, 12, 14, and 16-gauge speaker wires and are ideally paired with Austere 12 or 14-gauge speaker cables.
Do you sell your speaker cable in smaller spools?
We currently only offer 50ft spools of speaker cable.
How do I tell which is the positive and which is the negative side of your speaker cable?
The round cable jacket is on the negative side, and the hexagon-shaped cable jacket is on the positive side.
Can I purchase your banana jacks in larger packs?
Currently, we only offer packs of 2 pairs (4 total) of banana jacks for purchase. We may offer larger packs if there is an increased demand for it.