Please enter all required numeric values.
RESULTS
Input Parameters Specification
Capacitance per meterCable capacitance rating in pF/m used for audio cable treble cutoff frequency calculation.
Cable LengthTotal cable length in meters, increasing the total cable capacitance.
Source ImpedanceSource resistance or output impedance in ohms that forms the RC low-pass response.
Cutoff Frequency FcCalculated 3 dB treble cutoff point where high-frequency response starts dropping.
Practical Operational Examples
Audio Cable Treble Loss
Estimate cutoff frequency for guitar cables, preamp outputs, pedal cables, and long audio leads.
Cable Capacitance Comparison
Compare low-capacitance and high-capacitance cables to reduce treble attenuation and signal dullness.
Diagrams & Theory
A real cable has capacitance along its length. With source impedance, this cable capacitance creates a low-pass filter that reduces treble above the cutoff frequency.
Formulas & Mathematical Logic
Step 1: Read source impedance R in ohms, cable capacitance C in pF/m, and cable length D in meters.
Step 2: Convert capacitance from pF/m to F/m by multiplying C by 10^-12.
Step 3: Total cable capacitance effect is C × 10^-12 × D.
Step 4: Fc = 1 / (2 × 3.141592654 × R × C × 10^-12 × D).
Step 5: Display cutoff frequency rounded to the nearest Hz, preserving the original calculation logic.
Step-by-Step Example
Example: capacitance = 100 pF/m, cable length = 5 m, source impedance = 50000 Ω.
Total capacitance effect = 100 × 10^-12 × 5.
Fc = 1 / (2 × 3.141592654 × 50000 × 100 × 10^-12 × 5).
The final result shows the approximate treble cutoff frequency in Hz.
How to Use This Calculator
Enter cable capacitance per meter in pF/m.
Enter the total cable length in meters.
Enter the source impedance in ohms.
Click Calculate.
Use the cutoff frequency result to judge possible treble loss.
About This Calculator
Estimate audio cable treble cutoff frequency from capacitance and impedance.
The CalcBoy Treble Cutoff Frequency Fc of Cable Calculator helps estimate the RC cutoff point created by cable capacitance and source impedance.
Audio cables, guitar leads, sensor cables, and long signal wires all have capacitance. When this capacitance is connected to a source with noticeable output impedance, the cable behaves like a simple low-pass filter. The higher the cable capacitance or the longer the cable, the lower the cutoff frequency becomes. This is why passive guitar pickups, high-impedance preamp outputs, and unbuffered signal chains can sound darker when cable length increases.
This calculator is useful when comparing cable capacitance ratings, planning pedalboard wiring, checking long audio leads, estimating guitar cable treble loss, or deciding whether a buffer is needed. A cutoff frequency far above the audio band usually means treble loss will be minimal. A cutoff frequency inside or close to the upper audio range can mean audible softening, reduced brightness, or less attack.
Best UseAudio cable, guitar cable, pedal cable, sensor lead, and high-impedance signal checks.
Capacitance EffectHigher pF/m and longer cable both lower Fc.
Impedance EffectHigher source impedance makes treble roll-off stronger.
Design TipUse low-capacitance cable or a buffer to keep Fc higher.
Tip: Passive guitar pickups are especially sensitive because pickup inductance, cable capacitance, and amplifier input impedance interact. This calculator gives a clean RC estimate, while the real tone may also depend on pickup and tone-control behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is treble cutoff frequency Fc?
It is the frequency where the cable and source impedance RC network begins reducing high-frequency response by about 3 dB.
Why does cable capacitance reduce treble?
Cable capacitance forms a low-pass filter with source impedance. Higher frequencies are reduced first, which can make the signal sound less bright.
What capacitance value should I enter?
Use the cable datasheet value in pF/m. If your datasheet gives pF/ft, convert it before entering.
Why does cable length matter?
Total capacitance increases with length, so a longer cable lowers the cutoff frequency.
Can this be used for guitar cables?
Yes. It is useful for estimating why passive guitar cables can sound darker when the cable is long or high capacitance.
How can I increase cutoff frequency?
Use a shorter cable, lower capacitance cable, or lower source impedance with a buffer or preamp.
Is this exact for every audio system?
No. Real systems may include pickup inductance, amplifier input capacitance, tone controls, shielding effects, and connector capacitance.
Related Calculators
Cable Length at 3 dB Treble Attenuation CalculatorFind cable length for a selected cutoff frequency.
RC Low Pass Filter CalculatorCalculate cutoff frequency from resistance and capacitance.
Capacitance CalculatorUseful for basic charge, voltage, and capacitance checks.
Impedance CalculatorUseful for audio and electronics signal-path calculations.