AudioQuest - Cherry Cola - Active Optical HDMI Cable Review dives deep into AudioQuest’s ultrahigh-speed, long-reach marvel. Designed for audiophiles and home-theatre enthusiasts who demand bit-perfect video and pristine audio over extended distances, this cable redefines what you can expect from an HDMI connection. In this review, our team at The Audio Tailor explores the engineering, performance benefits and real-world use cases that make Cherry Cola 48 a standout choice.
Design and Construction
AudioQuest’s Cherry Cola 48 utilises quartz glass optical fibre conductors to eliminate signal attenuation and distance degradation. Each of the four balanced audio/video pairs can handle up to 12 Gbps, delivering a collective 48 Gbps bandwidth that supports resolutions up to 10K Ultra-HD, 8K/60 Hz and 4K/120 Hz. Unlike passive cables, the active directional control and galvanic-isolation means no external power supply is needed—power is sourced directly from your HDMI port.
Key features:
- Level-4+ Noise-Dissipation: Galvanic isolation, silver-plated ground reference, all-metal foil and drain-wire control, plus a global carbon mesh network to quash EMI/RFI.
- Plenum-rated, fire-retardant jacket and compact plugs for safe, discreet installations.
- Backward compatible with previous HDMI generations and supports eARC for high-resolution audio formats.
With bit-transparency as its guiding principle, Cherry Cola 48 preserves every data packet from source to display. Expect razor-sharp 4K visuals at 120 Hz, crystal-clear HDR highlights and perfect colour accuracy without artefacts. On the audio side, low-jitter optical transport ensures dynamic range and micro-detail are fully conveyed—critical for immersive Dolby Atmos or lossless PCM streams.
“In side-by-side tests with premium copper HDMI cables, the Cherry Cola 48 showed superior immunity to ground-loop noise and EMI, delivering a noticeably cleaner soundstage.” — Nathan, Home Theatre Specialist
Advanced Noise-Dissipation Technology
AudioQuest’s Level-4+ system is industry-leading. By isolating conductors galvanically, referencing to a silver-plated ground, and enveloping the cable in a carbon mesh shield, noise is prevented from invading the signal path. The result is:
- Lower noise floor for deeper blacks and improved contrast.
- Fewer digital artefacts during fast motion and rapid audio transients.
- Consistent performance regardless of run length (5 m to 30 m).
Long-Length Applications: No Compromise
Whether you’re mounting a projector in the ceiling, locating a rack in a separate room, or configuring a sprawling multi-screen system, Cherry Cola 48 delivers the full bandwidth without boosters or repeaters. Quartz glass fibre is immune to RF noise, so you avoid the typical degradation seen with metal conductors over extended runs.
Optimize your layout by speaking with our team: call 1300 308 711 or email sales@theaudiotailor.com.au.
Who Should Consider the Cherry Cola 48?
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Home-theatre enthusiasts craving future-proof 8K/60 Hz and 4K/120 Hz performance.
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Audiophiles needing zero-compromise audio fidelity over long distances.
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Professional AV integrators installing discrete, in-ceiling or out-of-sight cable runs.
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Gamers seeking low-latency, high-refresh 4K/120 Hz signals with minimal jitter.
For detailed specs and ordering options, visit our product page.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional 48 Gbps bandwidth for up to 10K resolutions
- Superior Level-4+ noise-dissipation for artefact-free signal
- Immune to distance degradation via quartz glass fibre
- No external power required—HDMI-sourced circuitry
- Plenum-rated jacket and compact plugs for safe installs
- Backed by AudioQuest’s limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Premium pricing relative to basic HDMI cables
- Lead time of 4–6 weeks for certain lengths (stock may vary)
Elevating Your Home Theatre Experience
The AudioQuest Cherry Cola Active Optical HDMI Cable is more than just a conduit—it’s the backbone of any high-end AV or home-theatre system. By combining ultrahigh-speed bandwidth, advanced noise control and robust construction, it delivers a level of performance that unlocks the full potential of modern displays and audio processors.
Ready to transform your setup? Our specialists at The Audio Tailor are here to help you select the ideal length and integration strategy. Speak with our team today on 1300 308 711 or email sales@theaudiotailor.com.au.
