Atlas Ailsa Duo Ultra L RCA Is an Advanced OCC Copper Interconnect Optimised for Ultra-Low Noise and High Fidelity
Atlas Ailsa Duo Ultra L RCA is a high-precision solid-core interconnect cable engineered for audiophiles seeking uncompromising signal purity and dynamic transparency. Designed around Atlas' advanced ‘Duo’ dual-drain topology, this wide-bandwidth RCA cable provides an exceptionally low-noise connection between hi-fi components, improving tonal balance, detail retrieval and stereo imaging in even the most revealing audio systems.
Solid-Core OCC Copper Conductors Provide Precision and Purity
At the core of the Atlas Ailsa Duo Ultra L RCA cable is a dual solid-core conductor array, built using ultra-pure Ohno Continuous Cast (OCC) copper. Each of the two solid-core conductors is independently screened and assigned to hot (+) and cold (–) signal paths, eliminating signal interaction and substantially reducing susceptibility to RFI and EMI. This approach mitigates distortion far more effectively than conventional stranded wire designs, delivering greater signal integrity and consistency across the frequency spectrum.
The precise geometry and purity of the solid-core OCC copper enable ultra-low resistance and capacitance (just 40.05 pF/m), making the Ailsa Duo Ultra L RCA an ideal choice for systems where high-resolution playback and wide dynamic range are essential.
Duo Independent Dual-Drain Screening Enhances Interference Rejection
The Atlas Ailsa Duo Ultra L RCA interconnect introduces the upgraded ‘Duo’ independent dual-drain screen topology, an evolution of the original 'dd' system found in previous Atlas models. This configuration uses discrete, symmetrically arranged drain wires to independently ground each conductor's screen, ensuring complete 360° coverage while avoiding ground loop interactions. The result is markedly superior RF and electromagnetic interference rejection without compromising signal path integrity.
When combined with the precision-twisted conductor assembly, this innovative topology produces a neutral yet musically engaging sound profile—marked by blacker backgrounds, improved microdynamics and enhanced spatial definition.
Ultra L RCA Connectors Feature Latik 3D-Printed Geometry for Minimal Signal Disruption
Atlas equips the Ailsa Duo Ultra L RCA with its proprietary Ultra L (Latik) RCA plugs—low-mass, non-magnetic connectors designed to preserve delicate audio signals. Each Ultra L plug features an internal 3D-printed non-conductive lattice structure that stabilises the connector mechanically while eliminating the eddy currents and capacitive anomalies typically caused by conventional metal casings.
The signal pins, like the conductors, are precision-machined from OCC copper to maintain consistent conductivity throughout the entire signal path. A cold-weld termination process bonds the cable and connector without solder, reducing the risk of impedance mismatches and thermal degradation over time.
Grun Coherent Earthing System Reduces System Noise Floor for Enhanced Dynamic Range
The Atlas Ailsa Duo Ultra L RCA interconnect integrates the Grun Coherent Earthing System—an external earthing method developed to further isolate the signal from environmental interference. This system reroutes the screen ground path away from the audio signal chain, preventing noise ingress while improving grounding consistency across components.
Included in the small blue box packaging are a Grun 1:2 cable, a Grun spade adapter, and precision-matched RCA interconnect pair. The Grun system adds tangible benefits such as increased dynamic range and a more stable soundstage—particularly in complex or high-resolution systems where subtle noise can veil detail.
Ailsa Duo Ultra L RCA Offers Aspire-Level Performance with High-End Tonal Accuracy
Positioned at the ‘Aspire’ level of Atlas' performance hierarchy, the Ailsa Duo Ultra L RCA takes design cues and engineering influence from higher-tier models like the Mavros and Arran series. Its titanium grey woven outer sheath and 4.8 mm per-conductor profile give it a distinctive aesthetic, while its audible performance leans towards neutrality with clarity, coherence and fine-layered harmonic detail.
Whether you're listening to vinyl through a valve preamp or feeding high-resolution digital from a DAC to a power amplifier, this cable uncovers nuance and tonal accuracy without overemphasising or editorialising the source material.