Most folks call it an “instrument cable” or “guitar cable.” In many guitar and bass setups, that means a 1/4-inch TS (mono) cable that runs from your instrument to an amp or pedal.

• Instrument/Guitar cable: 1/4-inch TS for guitar, bass, keys (unbalanced/mono).
• Patch cable: Short 1/4-inch leads for connecting pedals.
• TRS cable: 1/4-inch stereo/balanced for certain keyboards, mixers, or line-level gear.
• Speaker cable: Heavier, for amp head to speaker cabinet (different from instrument cords).

Product pages typically list connector type (straight or right‑angle), length, and shielding. Checking those details can help you match your gear and reduce noise.

For an electric guitar or bass into a combo amp or head, a 1/4-inch TS instrument cable is commonly used. It’s shielded to help keep noise down and designed for instrument-level signals.

• Check connectors: Most setups use 1/4-inch on both ends. Choose straight-to-straight or right-angle-to-straight based on your guitar’s jack and how you play.
• Length: 10–20 ft tends to balance reach with signal integrity.
• Shielding: Shielded instrument cables can help reduce hum in live and studio environments.
• Different from speakers: Amp-to-cabinet runs use dedicated speaker cables, not instrument cords.

When in doubt, review your gear’s manual and compare specs using the filters on the page.

An amp cord carries your audio signal so it can be amplified. Depending on your setup, that can mean a few different roles.

• Instrument to amp: 1/4-inch TS instrument cables for guitar, bass, or keyboard.
• Pedalboard runs: Short 1/4-inch patch cables between pedals, plus a longer instrument cable to the amp.
• Studio or mixer feeds: Some devices use 1/4-inch TRS (balanced) or XLR-to-1/4-inch leads, based on the output.
• Amp to speaker cabinet: Dedicated speaker cables handle higher power (not interchangeable with instrument cables).

Matching the cable type to the connection point helps maintain clean, reliable sound.

Most electric guitars output an unbalanced mono signal, so a 1/4-inch TS instrument cable is typically the right fit for going into an amp or pedal.

• TS (Tip–Sleeve): Standard for guitars and many basses; simple mono connection.
• TRS (Tip–Ring–Sleeve): Used for stereo outputs, balanced line-level gear, or certain accessories (like some expression pedals).
• Check exceptions: A few instruments feature stereo wiring or special electronics that may call for TRS—your manual will specify.

Using the connector type your instrument and amp expect can help reduce noise and avoid connectivity issues.

Length is a balance between freedom to move and keeping your signal clean.

• Home practice: 6–10 ft keeps things tidy and simple.
• Small stages: 10–15 ft provides comfortable reach with manageable slack.
• Larger stages: 15–20 ft (or more) can be helpful, though very long runs may add capacitance that can slightly reduce high-end detail.
• Practical tips: Route instrument cables away from power cords when possible, and consider right‑angle plugs to relieve strain at the jack.

If you use a pedalboard, short patch cables on the board plus one run to the amp can keep your setup cleaner and easier to manage.