Yinyoo 16-core Single Crystal Copper Cable Review

TESTED AT $42

WHERE TO BUY

In this review, I’m taking a look at the Yinyoo 16-core single crystal copper upgrade cable. This cable is available with either 3.5mm or 2.5mm balanced termination plus MMCX or 2-pin connectors. At the time of writing, this cable retails at around $42. Will it breathe new life into your earphones?

One area that budget audiophiles seem to often neglect is upgrade cables. Maybe it’s because they’ve heard how expensive cables can be, sometimes reaching into the thousands of dollars. Perhaps they don’t realize there are many affordable options out there. Or they just might not know of the benefits a simple cable upgrade can provide.

This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own based on my experience with the product.

Yinyoo 16-core Single Crystal Copper Cable Review

Pros

Excellent handling
No microphonics (cable noise)
2-pin/MMCX/2.5mm/3.5mm options
Value for money

Cons

No storage included

Package and Accessories

There isn’t really any package so to speak. The cable comes in a ziplock plastic bag and that’s all there is! I’d love to see a basic case provided but that would, of course, drive the price up a few more dollars. However, there are heaps of cheap cases available on AliExpress and Amazon starting from as low as about $1 if you want somewhere to store your new cable.

Build Quality and Design

As is the norm these days, the Yinyoo 16-core comes in 2-pin or MMCX, 3.5mm or 2.5mm balanced configurations which you can customize to your preference. The unit I received has 2-pin connectors and a 2.5mm balanced termination.

So what can you expect from a budget cable? You might be surprised because this thing is built really well. 8 pairs of double strands are weaved together to form a tight, uniform braid. It feels good in the hands, not in the least bit flimsy or unruly.

At the top, black aluminium 2-pin connector housings that are colour coded and have an additional small blue dot indicating the positive pin. There are no preformed ear guides, so this cable can be worn down or over-ear.

Further down is a black, spherical plastic chin slider followed by a small black cylindrical Y-split with Yinyoo branding. The cable terminates in an aluminium right-angled 2.5mm balanced plug with a band of carbon fibre pattern. As I’ve come to expect from Yinyoo cables, this one is put together really well and feels better than most of the stock cables you get with budget and entry-level earphones.

Handling

Another characteristic that seems consistent with Yinyoo cables is their excellent handling. This one is no exception. It’s very malleable and supple for a 16-core cable and drapes really well. There is virtually no microphonics (cable noise) at all and even without any pre-formed ear guides, it’s very comfortable when worn over-ear.

Sound

I tested the cable with several IEMs including the Fearless S8F, Tipsy Dunmer and KZ ZSX. Sources used for testing were the Shanling M5s, iBasso DX120 and FiiO K3. There wasn’t any noticeable audible difference with the KZ ZSX or Dunmer but the S8F sounded smoother and more full-bodied.

In my measurements, there was no visible change in frequency response. As is often the case with budget cables, their main advantages are in aesthetics and handling. In this area, the Yinyoo 16-core excels.

Yinyoo cable with Custom Art FIBAE Black

Conclusion

The Yinyoo 16-core single crystal copper cable is as I expected – great value for money. It has a high-quality build, solid components and it handles extremely well. It’s suitable for anything from ultra-budget to high-end earphones and looks right at home with either and anything in between. So, if you’re looking for an affordable upgrade cable that will imbue a touch of warmth and body into your earphones then you should definitely consider this one.

Check the price of the Yinyoo 16-core single crystal copper cable here:

AliExpress