2. cables
  3. 1017939391

Cable confusion?

Hi everyone, I hope some one can clear up some thing's I don't know about cable. First of all, I did try look up past threads on these questions, but was unable to find the answer's I was looking for, so please forgive me if these have already been answered. I know this is annoying to the "regulars". I know gauge refer's to the thickness of cable, but which is better for speaker cable?
A lower gauge cable or a higher gauge cable? I currently have two systems, one for HT, and one for audio. I currently use Monster XP cable for both systems. From various threads I've read, no one seems to use Monster cable for speakers. (Yes I am a novice) The best High end store around me (within my budget) is ultimate electronic's and that's all they sell.
dbx
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
Just to add to what has already been sais: generally for speakers cables, a larger cable is better if you need a long runs. At least 12awg.
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
A lower gauge(thicker wire) means lower per/length resistance but larger per/length capacitance. A capacitance load for large amps(>60W/ch) usualy will not create any problem. For poweramps >150W/ch I would recommend a minimum of 12AWG

A higher gauge means higher per/length resistance. Usually high-end or even professional audio brands provide all paramenters for the cable or wire. Monster doesn't and I can't tell why.

A short runs of speaker cables or wires will benefit in all cases: low overall resistance and capacitance at once.

If you go to the VanDenHul gauge/ampere/ chart you will know how to calculate the current flowiing through your wires and the gauge neccessary to conduct such current with minimal loss.

I use a 1m short run of 14AWG for my VTL MB100(100W/ch).
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
I'll dare to rephrase Skooks: Use a CD of a music You love the most to all your auditions.
garfish
1,840 posts
 
Years ago, Monster speaker cables got a bad reputation-- among audiophiles-- as being too soft, dull, rolled off, and generally uninvolving. Monster speaker cable was to good speaker cables as Bose was to high end speakers, IMO.

I actually don't know if Monster wire has improved the sonics of their cables or not-- say in the last 5-10 years? But if you like the sound of yours, don't worry about others opinions. But I would encourage you to compare it to a couple of other brands in your price range though-- and there are many to choose from. Try The Cable Company at www.fatwyre.com if you have no other nearby sources. They offer good advice and will send wires for home audition for a nominal fee. Good Luck. Craig
joe_b
421 posts
 
Lower gauge is better. Monster XP is probably around 16 gauge. 12 gauge or lower would be better. 2 runs of 12 guage or lower even better, if you can bi-wire. The Carol brand of speaker wire sold at Home Depot is probably as good or better than Monster and is cheap if you can find it. Spidergear.com sells good entry level cable for around 50 or 60 cents/ft. Of course, the more exotic and expensive cables will sound better, but that will depend on your equipment, budget and taste.
More to discover