I've been using Yamaha keyboards, guitars, outboard motors and never had a problem with service. As for the cable, why not build, or repair it yourself. You can purchase the connectors and wire at any Radio Shack. Then it's just a matter of sitting down with a small soldering iron and wiring the connections to the correct pins.

Most cables, with very few exceptions, are very inexpensive to manufacture. Mass production techniques using robotics made this possible a more than a decade ago. Even something as complex as a serial connection takes just a few seconds to produce. Computer mother boards are manufactured at incredible speeds using the same robotics. (I saw this on the Discovery Channel show "How It's Made.) It boggles the mind.

Because of this, the end product consists of very thin wires, most of which are either crimped or lightly soldered into a molded connector. They're not rugged, and they don't stand up to any abuse whatsoever. If you're setting up and tearing down your rig every day of the week, you'll be far ahead of the game by making your own, basic wires (cables). Even the much touted Monster Cables use lightweight wire and inexpensive, molded connectors. The big difference is Monster's guarantee. If you're willing to pay their price, and it fails, they'll replace it at no charge. Of course, you're still left with your a$$ hanging out to dry if it fails on the job. If you don't have the skills to make your own cables, then be sure to carry some inexpensive spares along with you at all times. You can't have too many spares.

Cheers,

Gary