I'm building myself a set of 15' Mini XLR cables to run my AT933/AT8531 setup while keeping the AT8531s in the bag (instead of velcroed to the stand or to something else). I ordered four
Switchcraft mini XLRs which seem to be of decent quality, but aren't super-bomber or anything, and 30' of Mini Starquad.
First problem was the cable I got didn't fit through the the part of the connector you thread on the cable and screw on to the barrel (is that the ferrule?). Luckily that was pretty easily solved by trimming and drilling them out a little, which was scary with new expensive connectors.
Next, my first solder job on these was a little sloppy. No shorts, but it was bulkier then it needed to be, and I had stripped off too much insulation. While I was trying to cram it into it's barrel, I broke off one of the pieces of metal you solder to. D'oh!
So I was more careful with the other three, and stripped them a little shorter, but now I have one more female connector on the way from Markertek to complete the project. Hopefully I can get that on without any additional breakage (and shipping charges).
Anyway, I thought I'd just post this info in case anyone else is trying to do the same thing. Be careful with those contacts and don't be afraid to drill to get bigger cable stock through. Oh, and get a fine tip for your soldering iron!