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dedicated line: 10AWG stranded or 2 solid cores?

I'm in the process of installing 2 dedicated power lines. From what I've been reading 10 AWG solid core, like VH Audio's cryoed Romex, would be optimal. However, in this part of the World we don't manufacture that kind of wire and I only found 10 AWG copper solid core monoconductor insulated in PVC, unshielded.

Hence my question: would I be better off by installing 10 AWG stranded cable, or taking 2 10 AWG solid core monoconductors putting them side by side + a stranded cable for ground and use them as if they were one line?

Thank you!
lewinskih01
stanwal's avatar
stanwal
3,147 posts
 
I wanted to go with stranded but found that both the ones I wanted to use had been discontinued and was unable to fine a good replacement. They were Diamond Handiwire and one by Carol. I bought some standard Romex 10 Ga.. but have had delays in installation so if anyone knows of a good stranded 10 ga currently avalable at a decent price I would like to know also.
lak's avatar
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lak
4,646 posts
 
Twist the wires (two plus ground) together for a noise canceling effect and run in conduit.
Make sure you have more wire then you need because by twisting the wire together it reduces the length. Place all three strands into the end of an electric drill chuck and run the drill slowly. A helper make the job easier.
lewinskih01 OP
909 posts
 
OK. So sounds like making a twisted pair of solid core still beats stranded. Good news.

Lak: the drill chuck idea is a good one. I had not thought about it. What spacing per twist should I be aiming for? 1 twist every 2 inches? Does it make a difference in sound if I use starnded cable for the ground wire only?

Thank you!
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