I've learnt to solder my own cables back in the days when you just could not buy them, you had to make them.
Today it seems there exist all sorts of cables, with all sorts of connectors, for any audio or music purpose. But with a common element, unfortunately: they're almost all stupidly cheap, senselessly mass-produced, and bound to fail soon.
I have used these Neutrik angled "mini-jack" connectors for a carry-around (reduced) kit of effects that's meant to connect with iPad, laptop, solid-state pocket recorder and other hand-held gizmos.
The clutch that grips the cable internally has a cleverly designed z-shaped profile that proved effective even with the infamous "back-pocket torture" of denim jeans trousers where teenagers keep their portable device.
My son's headphone connection to his iPhone lasted three years after I replaced it with this Neutrik eighth-inch plug, and I'm sure its angled design actually saved the headphone out on the iPhone from being pried-off as any run-of-the-mill, straight-out connector would have done it.
Like with all Neutrik connectors, then, soldering is made quick and easy by whatever gold-hued alloy this thing is plated with: be it the traditional solder thread, or the newest, EU-approved one, a fraction of a second does the preparation, while a fraction of a second secures the cable for good.
