Here is a quick look at the six most common kinds of connectors you will find at the ends of all of these cables: TS, RCA, banana plugs, and Speakon for unbalanced connections, and TRS and XLR for balanced connections. We've also included a couple of less-common connectors that you might run into.
- What are the different types of speaker wire?
- Is thicker speaker cable better?
- What is Type 2 speaker wire?
- Which wire is best for speakers?
What are the different types of speaker wire?
There are four main kinds of speaker wire connectors:
- Spade connectors: Spade connectors feature a forked piece of metal that hugs the collar of a 5-way binding post terminal. ...
- Banana plugs: ...
- Dual-banana plugs: ...
- Pin connectors:
Is thicker speaker cable better?
Thicker wires are better: It's true that for long runs, thicker wires are better at reducing the effects of resistance. But for most set ups (those with speakers within 100 ft of the amplifier), 16-gauge lamp cord is fine. For speakers 100 to 200 ft. ... And from 200 to 400 ft., they recommend 12-gauge wires.
What is Type 2 speaker wire?
Type 2 uses Solid Long-Grain Copper (LGC) conductors in a Low-Inductance, Self-Shielding Star-Quad geometry. In a conventional stranded cable, electrical and magnetic interaction between strands is the single greatest source of distortion, often causing a somewhat harsh, dirty, and confused sound.
Which wire is best for speakers?
Most of the best speaker wires are made from copper, since copper is a wonderful conductor of electricity. For the best quality wire, looking for something made with 100% copper is highly recommended.