Audio Cables & AUX Cords

Shop AUX Cords, 3.5mm Audio Cables & Wired Audio Adapters

Shop audio cables and AUX cords built for direct wired sound across compatible phones, tablets, laptops, headphones, speakers, car stereos, home audio systems, and other listening devices. Find 3.5mm AUX cords, male-to-male audio cables, headphone jack cables, car AUX cords, USB-C to AUX cables, Lightning audio adapters, extension cables, and other wired audio accessories.

Whether you need an AUX cord for a car, a replacement audio cable for speakers, a USB-C connection for wired headphones, or an adapter for an older stereo, this collection makes it easier to create the correct wired audio setup without Bluetooth pairing or charging a separate wireless accessory.

The right cable depends on the audio port, connector, signal type, and supported direction at both ends. A standard 3.5mm AUX cord works when both devices use compatible analog audio jacks. A USB-C to AUX cable or adapter connects supported USB-C devices with traditional headphones, speakers, and car audio inputs. Compatible Apple devices with Lightning ports require a Lightning audio adapter or Lightning-connected earbuds.

For more listening and connection options, shop Audio Accessories, Audio Adapters, Adapter Cables, Wired Earbuds, and Bluetooth Audio.

Find the Right Audio Cable

Start by checking the output connection on the phone, tablet, laptop, media player, or other audio source. Then check the input connection on the headphones, speaker, stereo, amplifier, or vehicle.

Common wired audio connections include:

• 3.5mm to 3.5mm: Connects two compatible standard AUX or headphone jacks.

• USB-C to 3.5mm: Connects a supported USB-C device to wired headphones, speakers, stereos, or car AUX inputs.

• USB-C to USB-C audio: Connects compatible digital audio devices through USB-C.

• Lightning to 3.5mm: Connects supported Apple devices with Lightning ports to traditional wired audio accessories.

• 3.5mm male-to-female: Extends the reach of compatible headphones, speakers, or existing audio cables.

• USB-C earbuds: Connect directly to compatible phones, tablets, and computers.

• Lightning earbuds: Connect directly to supported Apple products with Lightning ports.

Before choosing, confirm:

• Audio-source port

• Headphone, speaker, stereo, or vehicle input

• 3.5mm, USB-C, or Lightning connection

• Male or female connector requirement

• Cable length

• Digital or analog audio support

• Built-in digital-to-analog converter requirements

• Microphone compatibility

• In-line control compatibility

• Phone-case clearance

• Vehicle or speaker compatibility

• Intended audio direction

A cable that physically fits a port may not automatically support audio. Always check the individual device, cable, and adapter specifications.

AUX Cords

An AUX cord is a wired audio cable used to connect compatible sound sources and listening equipment through auxiliary audio ports.

Most standard AUX cords use a 3.5mm male connector at each end. One end connects to the headphone jack or audio output of a phone, tablet, laptop, MP3 player, or other compatible source. The other connects to an AUX input on a car stereo, speaker, home audio system, amplifier, or similar device.

AUX cords are commonly used for:

• Car stereo audio

• Portable speakers

• Desktop speakers

• Home stereos

• Laptops and computers

• Tablets

• MP3 players

• Travel entertainment systems

• Workstations

• Backup audio kits

Choose an AUX cord when both devices have compatible analog 3.5mm audio jacks and a direct plug-in connection is preferred.

3.5mm Audio Cables

A 3.5mm audio cable provides a direct analog connection between compatible audio devices.

Common configurations include:

• 3.5mm male to 3.5mm male

• 3.5mm male to 3.5mm female

• Short adapter cables

• Extended-length AUX cables

• Braided audio cables

• Right-angle connectors

• Coiled AUX cords

Choose a male-to-male AUX cord when both devices have female 3.5mm audio jacks.

Choose a male-to-female extension cable when additional reach is needed between a device and an existing pair of headphones, speaker cable, headset, or AUX cord.

Check the product specifications for connector configuration, cable length, microphone support, in-line controls, and device compatibility.

Male-to-Male AUX Cords

A male-to-male AUX cable has a 3.5mm male connector on both ends.

This is the most common AUX-cord format for connecting:

• Phones with headphone jacks to car stereos

• Laptops to portable speakers

• Tablets to home audio systems

• MP3 players to vehicle AUX inputs

• Computers to desktop speakers

• Audio players to amplifiers

Both devices must have compatible female 3.5mm audio ports.

A standard male-to-male AUX cord usually carries stereo analog audio. Microphone and headset-control support can vary by connector wiring and device.

Audio Jack Cables

An audio jack cable connects devices through compatible audio ports, commonly including 3.5mm headphone jacks and AUX inputs.

The term audio jack may refer to:

• A headphone output

• An AUX input

• A microphone input

• A combined headset port

• A line-in connection

• A line-out connection

These ports may use the same physical connector size while performing different functions. Check whether the port is intended to send audio, receive audio, support a microphone, or provide combined headset functionality.

Choose the cable according to the purpose of each port, not only its shape.

What Is a 3.5mm Audio Jack?

A 3.5mm audio jack is a small round port commonly used for headphones, speakers, microphones, AUX connections, and other analog audio equipment.

Depending on the device, a 3.5mm jack may support:

• Stereo audio output

• Mono audio

• Headphones

• Headsets with microphones

• Auxiliary input

• Line-level audio

• In-line controls

The contact sections on the plug can indicate supported functions:

• TRS connectors: Commonly support stereo sound.

• TRRS connectors: May support stereo sound plus a microphone or controls.

• TS connectors: Commonly support mono audio or specialized connections.

Compatibility depends on the device, connector wiring, audio standard, and intended purpose.

AUX Input vs. Headphone Jack

An AUX input and headphone jack may use the same 3.5mm connector shape, but they serve different purposes.

AUX Input

An AUX input receives an audio signal from another device. It is commonly found on:

• Car stereos

• Portable speakers

• Home audio systems

• Desktop speakers

• Amplifiers

• Receivers

Headphone Jack

A headphone jack sends audio from a source device to headphones, earbuds, speakers, or another compatible input.

It is commonly found on:

• Laptops

• Tablets

• Older phones

• Media players

• Game controllers

• Audio equipment

To create a standard AUX connection, connect the headphone or audio output of the source device to the AUX input of the listening device.

Car AUX Cords

A car AUX cord connects a compatible audio source to a vehicle stereo with a 3.5mm auxiliary input.

A direct wired car-audio connection can support:

• Music

• Podcasts

• Navigation audio

• Audiobooks

• Streaming audio

• Calls through supported vehicle systems

• Travel entertainment

• Backup listening when Bluetooth is unavailable

Choose a 3.5mm male-to-male AUX cord when both the phone or audio source and vehicle stereo use compatible 3.5mm ports.

When the phone does not include a traditional headphone jack, use the correct:

• USB-C to AUX adapter

• USB-C to 3.5mm cable

• Lightning to 3.5mm adapter

• Bluetooth AUX receiver

Keep the cable routed away from the steering wheel, pedals, gear selector, parking brake, cup holders, and other vehicle controls.

Complete the vehicle setup with a compatible car charger, car phone mount, or Bluetooth FM transmitter.

Headphone Jack Cables

A headphone jack cable connects compatible wired headphones, earbuds, speakers, or audio equipment to a device with a supported headphone output.

Choose a headphone cable based on:

• Device output

• Headphone input

• Connector diameter

• Male or female ends

• Stereo or microphone support

• Required cable length

• Detachable-cable compatibility

• In-line control support

Some headphones use detachable cables with different connector sizes on each end. Confirm the connection on both the headphones and source device before choosing a replacement.

For direct plug-in listening without a separate cable, browse Wired Earbuds.

Audio Cables for Speakers & Stereos

Audio cables can connect compatible phones, tablets, computers, and media players to:

• Portable speakers

• Desktop speakers

• Home stereos

• Amplifiers

• Receivers

• Car audio systems

• Powered monitors

• Entertainment systems

Choose the cable by matching the output on the source device with the input on the speaker or stereo.

A standard AUX cord works when both devices use compatible 3.5mm ports. USB-C and Lightning devices may require an adapter or direct conversion cable.

Some professional speakers and stereos use RCA, 6.35mm, optical, HDMI, or other connections rather than 3.5mm. Check the equipment specifications before choosing.

Hi-Fi Audio Cables

Hi-fi audio cables provide direct wired sound between compatible sources and listening equipment.

Depending on the product, construction may include:

• Braided outer jackets

• Reinforced connector ends

• Gold-plated connectors

• Shielded cable construction

• Flexible strain relief

• Right-angle connectors

• Extended cable lengths

A wired connection can provide consistent playback without depending on Bluetooth range, wireless pairing, or the battery level of a separate receiver.

Audio performance still depends on the source device, connection quality, cable construction, speaker or headphone hardware, audio file, and listening environment.

Choose a hi-fi audio cable based on connector type, required length, build quality, and device compatibility rather than appearance alone.

Braided & Reinforced Audio Cables

Braided and reinforced cables are designed to withstand bending, pulling, coiling, storage, and repeated everyday use more effectively than lightly constructed cables.

Depending on the product, durability features may include:

• Braided nylon jackets

• Reinforced strain relief

• Flexible connector joints

• Metal connector housings

• Shielded internal wiring

• Corrosion-resistant contacts

• Right-angle connectors

A braided exterior does not automatically confirm audio quality or universal durability. Check the complete product specifications, connector construction, and warranty information.

Cable Length

Choose a cable long enough to create a comfortable connection without leaving excessive loose cord.

Shorter cables can work well for:

• Car consoles

• Portable speakers

• Desk setups

• Travel pouches

• Direct device connections

Longer cables may be useful for:

• Home stereos

• Televisions

• Rear-seat vehicle audio

• Desktop computers

• Bedside listening

• Workstations

• Entertainment systems

Very long or poorly constructed analog cables can be more susceptible to interference, clutter, or signal degradation.

For most everyday setups, choose the shortest practical cable that reaches comfortably.

Audio Extension Cables

An audio extension cable adds reach between a device and an existing cable, pair of headphones, speaker, or audio accessory.

A typical headphone extension cable uses:

• One 3.5mm male connector

• One 3.5mm female connector

Extension cables can be useful for:

• Desktop computers

• Televisions

• Airplane entertainment

• Home audio

• Gaming

• Workstations

• Bedside listening

• Rear-seat vehicle audio

Check whether the extension cable supports stereo sound, microphones, headset controls, or playback only.

USB-C to AUX Adapters

USB-C to AUX adapters connect compatible USB-C phones, tablets, laptops, and other devices to traditional 3.5mm audio accessories.

Use a USB-C audio adapter with:

• Wired headphones

• 3.5mm earbuds

• Car AUX inputs

• Portable speakers

• Desktop speakers

• Home stereos

• Amplifiers

• Audio recorders

• Travel entertainment systems

USB-C audio compatibility can vary by device.

Some phones and computers output digital audio through USB-C and require an adapter with a built-in digital-to-analog converter, commonly called a DAC. Other devices may support different forms of analog or digital audio output.

Choose an adapter that specifically confirms audio compatibility with the connected device. An adapter designed only for charging or data transfer may not support sound.

Browse Audio Adapters for more USB-C, Lightning, AUX, and charging-plus-audio conversion options.

USB-C to 3.5mm Audio Cables

A USB-C to 3.5mm audio cable combines USB-C and AUX connectors in a single cable.

It can connect a compatible USB-C phone, tablet, or laptop directly to:

• A car stereo AUX input

• A portable speaker

• A home audio system

• Desktop speakers

• A headphone input

• Other compatible 3.5mm audio equipment

Choose a USB-C to AUX cable when:

• A direct one-cable setup is preferred

• The source device supports compatible USB-C audio

• The listening device has a 3.5mm input

• Fewer separate adapters are preferred

• Car or speaker use is the primary purpose

The phrases USB-C AUX cord, USB-C to AUX cable, Type-C audio cable, and AUX cord to USB-C may describe similar products.

Always verify:

• Connector ends

• Audio direction

• Built-in conversion

• DAC requirements

• Microphone support

• Device compatibility

USB-C Audio Jack Adapters

A USB-C audio jack adapter adds a compatible 3.5mm port to a supported USB-C device.

This allows traditional wired headphones, earbuds, AUX cords, and speakers to connect with newer phones, tablets, and computers that do not include a built-in headphone jack.

Choose a USB-C audio adapter based on:

• Device compatibility

• Built-in DAC support

• 3.5mm headphone output

• Microphone support

• In-line control support

• Connector length

• Phone-case clearance

• Charging pass-through where offered

Not every USB-C adapter supports calls, microphones, volume controls, or charging. Check the individual specifications.

Lightning to AUX Adapters

Lightning to 3.5mm adapters connect compatible Apple devices with Lightning ports to traditional wired audio accessories.

Use a Lightning audio adapter with:

• Wired headphones

• 3.5mm earbuds

• AUX cords

• Car stereos

• Portable speakers

• Home audio equipment

• Work or school headsets

• Travel audio setups

Newer Apple devices that use USB-C require a compatible USB-C audio adapter or USB-C-connected audio accessory instead.

Confirm whether the adapter supports:

• Playback

• Microphone input

• Calls

• In-line volume controls

• Charging pass-through

Browse Audio Adapters and Adapter Cables for additional connector options.

Digital vs. Analog Audio

A standard 3.5mm AUX cable generally carries an analog audio signal.

USB-C and Lightning ports generally carry digital data and may require conversion before traditional analog headphones, speakers, or car stereos can reproduce the audio.

Analog Audio

Analog audio travels as a continuously varying electrical signal.

Common analog connections include:

• 3.5mm AUX

• Headphone outputs

• Line-in and line-out ports

• Some RCA connections

Digital Audio

Digital audio travels as encoded data.

Common digital connections may include:

• USB-C

• Lightning

• USB audio

• HDMI

• Optical audio

• Bluetooth

A USB-C or Lightning adapter may need a built-in DAC to convert digital audio into an analog signal for a 3.5mm connection.

What Is a DAC?

A digital-to-analog converter changes digital audio data into an analog electrical signal that traditional headphones, speakers, and AUX inputs can reproduce.

A DAC may be built into:

• A phone

• A computer

• A USB-C audio adapter

• A Lightning adapter

• Wired USB-C earbuds

• An external audio interface

• A speaker or receiver

Not every USB-C to 3.5mm adapter includes an active DAC. Some rely on the connected device to provide compatible analog audio output.

Check both the device and adapter requirements before purchasing.

AUX Cable vs. Audio Adapter

An AUX cable and an audio adapter solve different connection problems.

AUX Cable

An AUX cable connects devices that already use compatible audio ports, typically two 3.5mm jacks.

Example:

• Phone headphone output to car AUX input

• Laptop headphone jack to portable speaker

Audio Adapter

An audio adapter converts or bridges different connector types.

Example:

• USB-C phone to 3.5mm headphones

• Lightning iPhone to car AUX cable

• USB-C device to an analog speaker input

Use an AUX cable when the ports already match.

Use an audio adapter when the source and listening device have different ports or signal requirements.

Browse the dedicated Audio Adapters collection when conversion is the primary need.

Why Some Phones Need an Audio Adapter

Many newer phones no longer include a built-in 3.5mm headphone jack.

These devices may use:

• USB-C

• Lightning

• Bluetooth

• Another digital connection

Traditional wired headphones, speakers, and vehicle AUX inputs still commonly use 3.5mm analog connections.

An adapter bridges the phone’s digital port with the older analog audio connection.

The exact adapter depends on:

• Phone connector

• Digital-audio support

• DAC requirements

• Listening-device input

• Microphone requirements

• Charging requirements

• In-line control support

A physical connector match alone does not guarantee audio compatibility.

Device Compatibility

Choose an audio cable or adapter by checking every part of the connection.

Source Device

Examples include:

• Phones

• Tablets

• Laptops

• Desktop computers

• MP3 players

• Game controllers

• Audio players

Listening Device

Examples include:

• Headphones

• Earbuds

• Portable speakers

• Desktop speakers

• Car stereos

• Home audio systems

• Amplifiers

• Receivers

Compatibility Questions

Confirm:

• Which device sends the audio?

• Which device receives the audio?

• What port is on each device?

• Is the signal digital or analog?

• Is a DAC required?

• Is microphone support needed?

• Are in-line controls needed?

• Does the cable fit through the phone case?

• Is charging pass-through required?

• Does the vehicle or speaker have a compatible input?

Wired Earbuds & Headphones

Audio cables and adapters can extend the usefulness of compatible wired earbuds and headphones.

Choose the connector that matches the device:

• 3.5mm earbuds: For standard headphone jacks

• USB-C earbuds: For compatible USB-C phones, tablets, and laptops

• Lightning earbuds: For supported Apple devices with Lightning ports

• Wired headsets with microphones: For calls, work, school, meetings, and gaming

• Detachable headphone cables: For compatible headphones with replaceable cords

Using the correct direct-connect earphones can eliminate the need for a separate adapter.

Browse Wired Earbuds for direct plug-in listening options.

Wired vs. Bluetooth Audio

Wired audio connects directly through a cable or adapter. Bluetooth audio connects wirelessly and requires compatible devices, pairing, and available battery power.

Choose Wired Audio For

• Direct plug-in listening

• No separate accessory charging

• Older speakers and stereos

• Car AUX connections

• Shared work or school devices

• Backup listening

• Consistent physical connections

• Environments where wireless use is restricted

Choose Bluetooth Audio For

• Cable-free listening

• Greater freedom of movement

• Wireless earbuds and headphones

• Portable speakers

• Modern vehicle audio

• Shared wireless playback

• Phones without accessible wired ports

Neither option is universally better. The right setup depends on the devices, connections, listening environment, charging requirements, and preferred convenience.

Browse Bluetooth Audio when wireless listening better fits the setup.

Audio Cable Features to Consider

Connector Type

Check for 3.5mm, USB-C, Lightning, male, female, or another required connector.

Audio Direction

Confirm which device sends audio and which receives it.

Cable Length

Choose enough reach without creating unnecessary clutter.

Digital-to-Analog Conversion

Some USB-C and Lightning connections require an adapter with a built-in DAC.

Microphone Support

A cable that supports stereo playback may not support microphone input.

In-Line Controls

Volume, play, pause, call, and voice-assistant controls require compatible cables, headphones, and source devices.

Cable Construction

Depending on the product, construction may include braided jackets, reinforced connectors, flexible strain relief, shielding, or compact adapter bodies.

Connector Shape

Straight and right-angle connectors fit different device, pocket, desk, and vehicle setups.

Case Clearance

Thick cases or narrow port openings can prevent a connector from seating fully.

Car Compatibility

Confirm that the vehicle has a working AUX input and that the source device has a compatible output or adapter.

Speaker Compatibility

Check the input on the speaker, stereo, receiver, amplifier, or powered monitor.

Best AUX Cords & Audio Cables by Use

Best AUX cord for a car: Choose a 3.5mm male-to-male cable when both the vehicle and audio source have compatible audio jacks.

Best for a phone without a headphone jack: Choose a compatible USB-C or Lightning audio adapter.

Best for USB-C phones: Choose a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter, direct USB-C AUX cable, or USB-C wired earbuds.

Best for Lightning devices: Choose a Lightning to 3.5mm adapter or compatible Lightning earbuds.

Best for speakers: Match the audio output of the source device to the input on the speaker or stereo.

Best headphone extension: Choose a 3.5mm male-to-female extension cable.

Best for direct one-cable car audio: Choose a USB-C to AUX cable when the device and vehicle support the connection.

Best for wired headphones: Choose the correct 3.5mm, USB-C, Lightning, or detachable headphone cable.

Best for work and school: Choose a cable or adapter that supports the required microphone and in-line controls.

Best for travel: Keep a compact AUX cord or audio adapter in a travel pouch or laptop bag.

Best for backup audio: Keep a compatible cable, adapter, or pair of wired earbuds in a car, desk, backpack, or tech kit.

Complete the Audio Setup

Pair an AUX cord or audio adapter with Wired Earbuds for direct plug-in listening.

Browse Audio Accessories for earbuds, headphones, speakers, adapters, transmitters, and related audio products.

Choose Bluetooth Audio when wireless earbuds, headphones, speakers, or receivers better fit the setup.

Shop Audio Adapters and Adapter Cables for USB-C, AUX, Lightning, HDMI, charging, data, and other device connections.

For vehicle use, add a car charger, car phone mount, or Bluetooth FM transmitter.

Keep compatible devices powered with Charging Cables, Wall Chargers, and Power Banks.

Audio Cables & AUX Cords FAQ

What is an AUX cord?

An AUX cord is an audio cable used to connect compatible devices through auxiliary audio ports, most commonly 3.5mm jacks.

What is an AUX cord used for?

AUX cords connect compatible phones, tablets, laptops, media players, car stereos, speakers, headphones, and other audio equipment.

What is a 3.5mm audio cable?

A 3.5mm audio cable uses one or more 3.5mm connectors to carry compatible analog audio between devices.

What is a male-to-male AUX cord?

It is an AUX cable with a male 3.5mm connector on both ends. It commonly connects a headphone output to a car, speaker, or stereo AUX input.

Are AUX cables and audio cables the same?

An AUX cable is one type of audio cable. Audio cables can also use USB-C, Lightning, RCA, HDMI, optical, microphone, speaker, and other connections.

Is an AUX cord the same as a headphone cable?

Sometimes, but not always. Both may use 3.5mm connectors, but headphone cables can use different wiring, microphones, controls, or detachable connector sizes.

Is an audio jack the same as an AUX port?

Not always. An AUX port is an audio input. A headphone jack generally sends audio from the source device to headphones or another compatible input.

Do AUX cords work in cars?

Yes, when the vehicle has a compatible AUX input and the source device has a compatible audio output or adapter.

What AUX cord do I need for my car?

Choose a 3.5mm male-to-male cable when the car and audio device both have compatible 3.5mm jacks. USB-C and Lightning phones may require an adapter or direct conversion cable.

Can I connect a phone without a headphone jack to car AUX?

Yes. Use a compatible USB-C to AUX adapter, USB-C to 3.5mm cable, or Lightning audio adapter depending on the phone.

What is a USB-C to AUX adapter?

It connects a compatible USB-C device to traditional 3.5mm headphones, speakers, car stereos, or other AUX inputs.

What is a USB-C AUX cable?

A USB-C AUX cable has a USB-C connector on one end and a 3.5mm audio connector on the other for a direct compatible connection.

Do all USB-C to 3.5mm adapters work with every phone?

No. USB-C audio support and digital-to-analog conversion requirements vary by device and adapter.

Why do some USB-C audio adapters not work?

The device may require a built-in DAC, the adapter may support charging or data but not audio, or the adapter may not support the device’s audio-output method.

What is a DAC?

A digital-to-analog converter changes digital audio from a USB-C or Lightning device into an analog signal for traditional headphones, speakers, or AUX inputs.

Does every USB-C audio adapter include a DAC?

No. Check the product specifications and device requirements.

What is a Lightning to 3.5mm adapter?

It connects a compatible Apple device with a Lightning port to traditional wired headphones, speakers, car stereos, or AUX cables.

Can I use a Lightning audio adapter with a USB-C iPhone?

No. A USB-C iPhone requires a compatible USB-C audio adapter or USB-C audio accessory.

Can an AUX cord carry microphone audio?

Some cables and connectors support microphone signals, while others support stereo playback only. Check for headset, microphone, TRRS, or in-line control compatibility.

Why does my AUX cord have no sound?

Possible causes include an incorrect port, loose connector, damaged cable, device settings, low volume, debris in the audio jack, an incompatible adapter, or unsupported digital-audio conversion.

Why does an AUX cord make static noise?

Static can result from loose connectors, damaged cables, dirty ports, electrical interference, poor grounding, charging noise, or worn vehicle audio equipment.

Why is there no sound through my USB-C adapter?

Possible causes include device incompatibility, a missing required DAC, an adapter that does not support audio, damaged connectors, blocked ports, or incorrect sound settings.

Can I use an AUX cord while charging my phone?

Yes, when the phone has separate compatible charging and audio connections or uses an adapter designed to support both functions. Some setups can introduce electrical noise.

Are wired audio cables better than Bluetooth?

Neither is universally better. Wired audio provides direct plug-in use without wireless pairing or accessory charging. Bluetooth provides cable-free movement and convenience.

Does cable length affect audio quality?

Very long or poorly constructed cables can be more susceptible to signal loss or interference. Choose the shortest practical cable that reaches comfortably.

Do braided AUX cables sound better?

Braided construction primarily affects exterior durability and handling. Sound quality depends on the complete cable construction, connectors, shielding, source, and audio equipment.

Do phone cases affect audio cable compatibility?

Yes. Thick cases and narrow port openings can prevent some connectors from seating fully.

What should I look for in an AUX cord?

Check connector type, cable length, male or female ends, device compatibility, cable construction, case clearance, and whether microphone support is required.

When should I replace an audio cable?

Replace the cable if the connector becomes loose, bent, corroded, frayed, exposed, intermittent, or no longer produces consistent sound.