BreakFree Connectors

Belkin International Inc. has announced a new connector called BreakFree. These connectors will detach under extreme tension thefore protecting your guitar or amp from cables being tripped on/pulled out. Belkin claims the connectors will “provide a noise-free dynamic sound without any degradation in audio quality.”

The theory behind BreakFree connectors is to eliminate cables from damaging your instrument in the event your cable is stepped on. It also claims to eliminate the popping that occurs when cables are accidentally unplugged from a live amplifier. This is accomplished by a magnetic tip that you insert into you instruments 1/4″ jack, then attach the connector to your cable. It works similar to the mag-safe power adapter on new Apple computers.  This also make guitar swapping seamless without the hassle of shutting down your amplifier, or placing it into standby mode.

I recently broke a 1/4″ plug off into my guitar while performing. The cable was stepped on, and the rest is history. I will be trying out BreakFree connectors as soon as they become available to purchase. Belkin set a release date for September 2008, so hopefully they will be out soon. The price is $19.99 for the 1/4″ magnetic tip, and the accompanying 1/4″ magnetic connector. You will be able to buy extra tips for $9.99 a pack (two per pack). This will be for those with multiple instruments for fast switching.