The connector without the outside barrel sounds better, if it is not too loose and rf is not a problem. However, as the above posts suggest when twisting the barrel make sure that it is moving toward the rca connector on the component.
RCA plugs that don't fit.
I've had problems with numerous interconnects lately that have WBT or WBT style locking RCA's. The connectors have been so tight that they won't fit on the jacks on back of my eqipment. This has happened on various types of equipment, and my only solution has been to unscrew the barrel of the connector and attach the cable without it. Has anyone else had similar problems and is there a solution I'm missing. The most important thing is not breaking the connectors on the back of my equipment while maintaining a secure connection.