The connectors on each end are non-molded meaning the cable is pushed into an openings at each end to connect with the male and female plugs. With the resulting give, and looseness of the cable, it eventually gives way and the audio suddenly starts cutting of and on when the connector is pulled, jiggled, etc.
One of the first things I learned in systems admin was to purchase network patch cables with molded ends, wish someone designing these adapters had learned the same lesson -- Ive not yet been able to find one :(