Description
Balanced interconnects are often chosen for their rejection of common-mode noise—but even in balanced systems, the cable itself can still pick up radiated interference and can still suffer from mechanical resonance and dielectric effects that mask low-level information. The Audio Reference III (XLR) was designed as Furutech’s “top-of-the-line” answer to these challenges: a cable that doesn’t chase artificial edge enhancement, but instead reduces inter-note noise so detail emerges naturally and listening stays fatigue-free.
Double-shielded α-OCC conductors: designed to eliminate radiated noise
At the heart of Audio Reference III (XLR) are α (Alpha)-OCC conductors in a structure Furutech describes as double-shielded to eliminate radiated noise. The “Alpha” conductor is treated with Furutech’s cryogenic and demagnetizing process, aiming to optimize conductivity and reduce magnetic effects that can blur fine detail. In practice, stronger shielding and a stable conductor structure can deliver a calmer background, more stable imaging, and clearer separation—especially in systems with streaming gear, routers, switch-mode power supplies, and displays nearby.
Formula GC-303 modules: EMI absorption around the cable
A defining feature of the Reference III series is Furutech’s Formula GC-303 antimagnetic EMI-absorbent modules that surround each cable. Furutech positions GC-303 as an elegant antidote to modern “noise pollution,” helping remove haze and allowing the system to develop music more fully without pushing the upper frequencies into glare. The aim is not “more treble,” but less noise between notes—which can sound like more resolution and more lifelike dynamics.
Air-foamed HDPE insulation: reduced capacitance, better vibration damping
The cable is insulated with air-foamed HDPE, specified to reduce capacitance and damp vibration. Lower capacitance supports cleaner transient behavior and more open, natural high frequencies, while improved vibration damping helps maintain micro-detail and image stability. Furutech explicitly links this construction to an ultra-quiet soundstage and more natural, unforced detail—especially in complex passages where lesser cables can harden or flatten the presentation.
Rhodium-plated FP-601M/FP-602F (R) XLR connectors: stable contact, optimal transfer
Audio Reference III (XLR) uses Furutech’s rhodium-plated FP-601M/FP-602F (R) XLR connectors. Furutech specifies the XLR pins as high-contact, nonmagnetic rhodium-plated phosphor bronze, designed for stable signal transfer and long-term performance. With balanced connections, connector integrity matters: a stable, low-micro-movement interface helps preserve low-level information and keeps the system sounding consistent over time.
What to expect in a revealing system
Furutech describes the result as greater resolution and clarity, more powerful dynamics, and an ultra-quiet soundstage where music unfolds without artificial “presence region” glare. They also note that the GC-303 structure helps produce deeper, tighter bass that better defines venue information and supports the entire frequency range. In real-world listening, this class of cable often presents as:
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Cleaner separation and more stable center image
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Better low-frequency definition and timing
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A calmer, less fatiguing presentation at realistic levels
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More intelligible inner detail (reverb tails, micro-dynamics, spatial cues)
Ideal applications (1.2m)
This 1.2m XLR pair is ideal for:
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DAC → preamp / integrated amplifier
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Streamer → DAC
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Phono stage → preamp (balanced output)
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Studio gear and high-end audio chains where balanced connectivity is preferred
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Any line-level link where you want strong EMI control without tonal exaggeration







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