The art of choosing the right speaker cables
When it comes to choosing speaker cables, there are a number of technical specifications to consider. Below we will discuss these specific aspects of speaker cables.
Insulation: The insulation of the cable is intended to prevent electrical signals from influencing each other. Good isolation ensures a clear and bright signal. Choose cables with high-quality insulation, such as PVC or Teflon.
Resistance: It is important to choose a cable with a resistance that matches your amplifier and speakers. A lower resistance is better for high output power amps, while a higher resistance is better for lower power amps.
Thickness: The thicker the wires, the better the signal can flow through the cable. The thickness of a cable is often expressed in a surface area (mm²). The thickness of the speaker wire must be appropriate
n for the output power of the amplifier and the sensitivity of the speakers. A recommended area for an average installation is 2.5 mm². The sensitivity of typical loudspeakers is somewhere between 84 and 92 dB.
Length: The length of the speaker cable also matters. A longer cable can lead to signal attenuation and distortion. It is advisable not to choose an unnecessarily long cable, so that the signal remains as strong and accurate as possible.
Below is a table with guidelines for choosing speaker cables. It is important to note that this table is only a general guideline and that the best choice of speaker cable depends on several factors, including the impedance of the speakers and the personal preferences of the listener.
Power of the amplifier |
Length of the speaker cable |
Recommended speaker cable thickness |
Less than 50 watts |
Less than 3 meters |
18 AWG (0.75mm²) |
Between 3 and 6 meters |
16AWG (1.5mm²) |
|
Between 6 and 12 meters |
14 AWG (2.5 mm²) |
|
More than 12 meters |
12 AWG (4 mm²) |
|
Between 50 and 200 watts |
Less than 3 meters |
16AWG (1.5mm²) |
Between 3 and 6 meters |
14 AWG (2.5 mm²) |
|
Between 6 and 12 meters |
12 AWG (4 mm²) |
|
More than 12 meters |
10 AWG (6 mm²) |
|
Between 200 and 400 watts |
Less than 3 meters |
14 AWG (2.5 mm²) |
Between 3 and 6 meters |
12 AWG (4 mm²) |
|
Between 6 and 12 meters |
10 AWG (6 mm²) |
|
More than 12 meters |
8 AWG (10 mm²) |
|
More than 400 watts |
Less than 3 meters |
12 AWG (4 mm²) |
Between 3 and 6 meters |
10 AWG (6 mm²) |
|
Between 6 and 12 meters |
8 AWG (10 mm²) |
|
More than 12 meters |
6 AWG (16 mm²) |