Neutrik NC3 MXX-HE

With over 35 experience of making, repairing, and generally abusing mic leads in some pretty darned rough environments, there is simply NOTHING that even remotely compares to the build quality of the Neutrik jacks and XLRs, but more importantly nothing compares to the reliability and protection that the chuck strain relief system brings. Cables are better protected, solder joints are never strained, and I end up doing far less repairs. Even Switchcraft for all their legendary status just are not even close to the reliability of Neutrik for repeated hard stage use with clumsy, uncaring musicians.

Don't even consider using another brand. The saving is not worth it. In the case of Switchcraft, the extra cost of those is not worth it, either.