Sound bar cord: Amazon Basics Toslink Digital Optical Audio Cable, Multi-Channel, for Audio System, Sound Bar, Home Theatre, Gold-Plated Connectors, 6 Foot, Black : Electronics

Accessories – Wet Wire – Cables

Do all soundbars need a power cord?

No, not all soundbars need a power cord. Some use technology such as Bluetooth, which utilizes wireless power, eliminating the need for a power cord. However, not all soundbars have built-in Bluetooth, so if yours does not, then you will need to use a power cord to power your soundbar.

Additionally, some soundbars include a wireless subwoofer or satellite speakers, which would need to be powered directly with a power cord.

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Does a sound bar need electricity?

Yes, a sound bar does need electricity to operate. A sound bar features an amplifier to increase the sound level and does not have its own power source. Therefore, it needs to be plugged into an outlet or powered externally by a battery pack.

Depending on the type of connection used, some sound bars may plug directly into a wall outlet using a power adapter, while others may require a power supply to be connected to a receiver or powered speaker system.

Additionally, some sound bars are compatible with battery packs so they can be used outdoors or in locations without an outlet. It is important to check your sound bar’s connections and manufacturer’s materials to determine how to power it.

How do wireless soundbars get power?

Wireless soundbars get power through electricity, usually though a power cord plugged into a wall outlet. Wireless soundbars may also come with battery packs or can be powered through USB ports, allowing you to use a laptop, game console, power bank, or car charger.

Most wireless soundbars are battery-powered, however, meaning its power source is internal and not connected to any external power source. This type of soundbar is highly portable, since you don’t have to worry about connecting it to a wall outlet.

In addition, many wireless soundbars allow you to connect to a wireless network, enabling you to stream audio from other wireless devices, such as phones, tablets, and computers.

What cords do I need for a soundbar?

If you’re looking to set up a soundbar to use with your TV or other device, you’ll need a few cables to get started. The exact cables you will need will depend on the type of soundbar you have, and what type of device you plan to hook it up to, but typically you will need some combination of the following:

HDMI cable: This is one of the most common types of cable used to hook up a soundbar. An HDMI cable will typically be connected from your device (TV or otherwise) directly to the soundbar, allowing you to get both audio and video signals over the same cable.

Optical/TOSLINK cable: This type of cable is also quite common, and allows you to send audio signals from your device to the soundbar. It is slightly lower quality than the HDMI cable, but is easier to plug in and still provides good sound quality for most users.

RCA cables: If your soundbar supports RCA connections, these types of cables can be used to provide audio from your device to your soundbar. This is not a very common connection type, and is often found on older soundbars, so check the back of your soundbar for RCA connections before considering this option.

3. 5mm Audio Cable: Another common connection option, a 3.5mm cable (or sometimes referred to as an AUX cable or headphone cable) can be used to provide audio from your device to your soundbar. It is one of the most common types of cable used, and typically provides good sound quality as well.

Bluetooth: Many modern soundbars offer Bluetooth connections that allow you to wirelessly stream audio directly from your phone or other device to the soundbar. This is one of the most convenient options, and often provides very good sound quality as well.

So, to sum up, the cables you will need for your soundbar will depend on what type of soundbar you have and what type of device you plan to hook it up to. However, typically you will want to consider some combination of HDMI, Optical/TOSLINK, RCA, 3.

5mm Audio, and Bluetooth connection options.

How do I connect a soundbar to my TV?

Connecting a soundbar to a TV is simple and straightforward. First, identify the type of connection that both the television and soundbar support. Newer models typically feature HDMI, Optical Audio, and sometimes Bluetooth connections.

Once you have identified the connections on both the soundbar and TV, use the correct cables to connect them.

For HDMIs, start by connecting the HDMI ARC port on the soundbar to the HDMI ARC port on the TV. Some HDMI cables are directional, so make sure the cable is connected the right way. If using an Optical cable, connect the Optical Audio Out port on the TV to the Optical Audio In port on the soundbar.

Next, power on the TV, soundbar, and any other devices connected to them. Finally, use the electronic settings or manual controls to set the connected devices to the correct input or output function.

Once everything is set up, you should be ready to use your soundbar with the television.

Is it better to connect soundbar with HDMI or optical?

The decision of whether to connect a soundbar with HDMI or optical will depend on the equipment you have and the type of sound you wish to produce.

If you have an HDMI and the soundbar has an HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) port, then connection via HDMI is the preferred option as it will allow you to get the most out of your components by enabling full multichannel sound and also allow you to control the soundbar volume using your TV remote.

However, if you don’t have an HDMI connection or your soundbar doesn’t have an HDMI ARC port, then connecting via optical would be the most appropriate option as this will still enable you to achieve high-quality sound.

The downside to this option is that you will not be able to control the soundbar’s volume using the TV remote.

Ultimately, it’s a matter of preference as to which connection you choose. If you have both HDMI and optical connections, it’s probably a good idea to try both and choose the one that works best for your needs.

How do soundbars connect to speakers?

Soundbars typically connect to speakers using either a digital or analog connection. For digital connections, you may use a coaxial connection, an HDMI cable, or a Digital Optical Toslink connection.

For analog connections, you may use phono-type (RCA) cables. Depending on the soundbar and speakers you have, a wireless Bluetooth connection may also be possible.

It’s important to note that not all soundbars will work with all types of speakers. Therefore, be sure to check that your soundbar and speakers are compatible before connecting them. Typically, the best way to connect soundbars and speakers is using the digital connection, as this provides the best sound quality.

Follow the instructions of the soundbar and speakers manuals to setup the connection properly.

How do I know if a soundbar is compatible with my TV?

In order to determine if a soundbar is compatible with your TV, you need to take a look at several different factors. First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that the ports that your soundbar and TV have are compatible.

For example, if your soundbar has an HDMI port, check to make sure that your TV has one as well. Furthermore, you’ll want to make sure that the soundbar’s power output is compatible with the TV’s power input.

This is especially important if you plan on using the soundbar for powerful sound systems such as surround-sound. Additionally, if you plan on using a home theatre system, such as those powered by a receiver, make sure to check for compatibility between the soundbar and the receiver.

Finally, if you plan on using the soundbar for Bluetooth capability, make sure that your TV supports Bluetooth. Once you’ve determined that your TV and soundbar are compatible, you can make a confident purchase.

What would cause a sound bar to stop working?

Ranging from a simple connection issue to a more complex underlying problem.

One of the most common causes is a loose connection between the sound bar, television, or other audio source. This could be a faulty cable or an improperly configured setting, either of which could prevent the sound bar from receiving the signal it needs to function.

Check the connections and settings to make sure they are secure and configured correctly.

Another potential cause of a sound bar not working is a blown speaker. Over time, the components in the sound bar can become damaged from excessive use or from being exposed to changes in temperature or humidity.

In this case, check the sound bar for any physical damage, and if it is present, you may need to take the sound bar to a professional for repairs or replacement.

It’s also possible that the sound bar itself has malfunctioned. This could be caused by a software issue or an aging component in the sound bar. In this case, you may need to reset the sound bar or contact the manufacturer for repairs.

Finally, if none of the above are at fault, then the issue may be with your TV or other audio source. If you are able to connect the sound bar to a different device and it works correctly, then this is likely the cause of the problem.

How do you reset your soundbar?

To reset your soundbar, you will need to first unplug it from any power source. Then press and hold the power button for 15 seconds. After 15 seconds, plug the power cable back in and wait for the soundbar to turn on.

Once the soundbar is on, press the reset button (normally located on the back) for a few seconds until the soundbar powers off. Once the soundbar is off, wait a few seconds before powering it back on.

Once powered on, the soundbar should be reset and ready to use.

Why is my soundbar on but no sound?

There could be a few possible causes for why your soundbar is on but no sound is coming out. Firstly, you should check that the cables connecting your soundbar to your TV are firmly plugged in, as sound won’t be able to transmit if the cables are not securely connected.

Secondly, you should make sure there isn’t a fault with the settings. For example, you could check that the right source is selected on the soundbar’s remote control. Thirdly, you should make sure that your TV settings aren’t blocking any sound coming from the soundbar.

Try adjusting the audio settings on the TV’s menu to ensure that the soundbar is selected as the audio output device. Fourthly, you should check if the soundbar is being blocked by any furniture or obstructions, and ensure that the soundbar speakers are pointed in the right direction and not obstructed by any foreign objects.

Finally, if none of these tips help, you may have a faulty soundbar and it is worth contacting the manufacturer for assistance.

Where is the reset button on my soundbar?

The reset button for your soundbar will vary depending on the type of soundbar you have. Generally, the reset button will be located somewhere on the back of your soundbar, often times near the power connection.

Some soundbars may have a tiny reset button, so you may need to look closely. Alternatively, you may also find the reset button marked on your soundbar’s manual. If you are still unable to locate the reset button, please refer to your soundbar’s manufacturer website for assistance.

Why does my Onn sound bar keep turning off?

The most likely cause of your Onn sound bar turning off is due to a power issue. It may be caused by a power surge, wiring problems, a loose power cable connection, or incorrectly configured power settings on the sound bar itself.

To determine the root cause of the issue, check the power connection at both ends. Check the outlet you are using to power the sound bar and make sure it works properly. If the outlet is properly working, then check the power cable and make sure it is securely connected to both the outlet and the sound bar.

If you are using a surge protector, verify that it is working correctly as well. Additionally, inspect the power settings on the sound bar, manually adjust them to the appropriate settings for your setup, and make sure the connections are firmly secured.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, it is best to contact a professional technician for further help.

Why is there no sound coming from my soundbar?

There are quite a few possible reasons why there’s no sound coming from your soundbar. First, you should make sure all the cables between the soundbar and other components are securely connected. If the issue persists, it could indicate a malfunction of the soundbar itself, or maybe an audio setting issue on your television.

Another possibility is that the soundbar is not set as the active speaker with your TV. You can easily check this by looking for the ‘Audio Output’ option in your TV’s audio settings and make sure that ‘External Speaker’ or ‘Soundbar’ is selected.

You may also need to adjust volume settings within the sound bar’s menu to make sure it is at an appropriate level.

If none of these steps resolves the issue, you may need to factory reset the soundbar itself or even check to see if the soundbar needs to be serviced or replaced.

What is difference between HDMI and HDMI ARC?

HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is an industry-standard audio/video connection that enables the transmission of digital video and audio signals between electronic devices. HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) is an HDMI feature that allows users to send audio from their TV to an audio receiver, such as a soundbar or home theater system, without the need for a separate audio cable.

HDMI ARC can also send commands to the audio device so users can control volume and playback with their TV remote. To use HDMI ARC, both the TV and the audio device must be HDMI ARC compatible. HDMI ARC is also referred to as HDMI eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), which supports high-resolution audio formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

Connectors and cables for connecting home audio / video equipment

In this publication you will find descriptions and illustrations of absolutely all connectors and cables found on modern home audio / video equipment.

USB 30-PIN CABLE

30-pin-to-USB is an Apple® connection cable that provides charging and data syncing for early iPod®, iPhone®, and iPad® models. It features a proprietary power plug on one end and a Type A USB plug on the other end. In 2012, the 30-pin cable was replaced with a Lightning 9 cable0006

SPEAKER SCREW TERMINALS

Screw terminals are a type of cable terminal found on speakers, receivers and amplifiers. They accept bare speaker cable and four different connector types: pin headers, spade connectors, banana plugs and dual banana plugs.

SPEAKER CONNECTING SPRING CLIPS

Spring clamps are a type of cable terminal found on inexpensive speakers, AV receivers, entry-level amplifiers and music centers. The spring clip terminals can accept bare wire (generally no thicker than 16 gauge) but not spade, banana, or double banana connectors.

75 OHM COAXIAL CABLE

75 ohm coaxial cable is used for high speed data and audio/video transmission. The most widely used type of such cable is called RG-6. Typically, coaxial cable is used in television antennas, they are connected to cable and satellite receivers. Bare coaxial cable can be crimped with RCA, F-type or BNC connections using a compression tool.

AM ANTENNA INPUT

Many tuners and receivers use an external antenna to receive AM radio stations. Typically, there are two antenna inputs, one labeled AM and the other labeled ground. Most loop antennas have interchangeable bare wires that can be used for any input.

BI-AMPING

Bi-amping is a speaker connection method that uses two channels of amplification to power one speaker. For a two-channel amplifier to work, each speaker must have two sets of input terminals. This feature is available on some floorstanding and bookshelf speakers.

Bi-amping doubles the power the speaker receives. It can enhance audio performance by separately controlling bass and treble. Bi-amping is an option on receivers that have assignable gain channels, such as home theater AV receivers. Read more about bi-amping here.

COAXIAL DIGITAL CABLE

Coaxial digital cable transmits digital audio between two devices. It is commonly used with home theater receivers, music streaming devices, and disc players. Coaxial digital cables look almost identical to single analog RCA cables. But they are specifically designed to work with wide bandwidth digital signals. A single cable is used to transmit the entire digital signal. Coaxial digital inputs are usually orange.

COMPONENT VIDEO CABLE

Component video cable carries high quality analog video information. It is used with DVD players, TVs, and older game consoles. This 3-channel connection allows you to process separately the color (chrominance) and brightness (brightness) sections of the video signal. Component video cables have red, green, and blue RCA cable plugs at each end. In the early 2000s, component video was replaced by HDMI as the preferred connection method for high definition video.

COMPOSITE VIDEO CABLE (OR RCA CONNECTOR)

The composite video cable carries standard definition analog video. It combines the chrominance and luminance channels of a video signal together in a single cable. Composite video ports are commonly found on A/V components such as DVD players, VCRs, and TVs. They have a yellow RCA plug on each end. They are usually grouped with red and white stereo audio ports for a complete audio/video signal.

DISPLAYPORT

DisplayPort is a digital connection used with computers, monitors and HD displays. It can transmit audio, video and other high speed data. The DisplayPort connection can be converted to HDMI using an external adapter (converter).

DVI (DIGITAL VIDEO INTERFACE)

DVI is a multi-pin connection used to transmit digital video signals. It can be found on some TVs, computers and monitors. There are various types of DVI connections. DVI-D is a type of connection used on some home video devices. It carries digital signals. DVI-I is used with some computer graphics cards and can carry both digital and analog video signals. DVI connections can be converted to HDMI using an adapter. This provides additional flexibility when using old and new equipment together.

NETWORK ETHERNET CABLE

Ethernet cables are used to connect devices for high-speed network access. Ethernet connection ports are found on computers, smart TVs, game consoles, and Internet players. The Ethernet cable can be purchased in a reel for arbitrary length runs. RJ-45 connectors and a special tool are used to crimp the connectors. There are also cables with a fixed length, so-called patch cords, which are sold with the connectors installed.
Ethernet cables are identified by their category (CAT for short). Many versions are available. CAT-5e (e for enhanced) and CAT-6 are the most common types in use today. Once revolutionary, CAT-5 is almost obsolete in today’s fast-paced world. CAT-5 is capable of transmitting speeds up to 100 megabits per second. CAT-5e is ten times faster, with speeds up to 1000 Mbps (Gigabit). CAT-7 wire is by far the most advanced, with speeds up to 10Gbps.

FIREWIRE® (IEEE 1394)

Firewire is a 6-pin connector used in computers and audio recording equipment. Originally developed by Apple, it has been replaced by Thunderbolt™ in recent years. Firewire is also known by its generic designation IEEE 1394.

FM ANTENNA INPUT

Many tuners and AV receivers use F-type coaxial inputs to connect an FM antenna. Some inputs have a threaded stud onto which the antenna is screwed, while others have a push connector.

HDMI (HIGH DEFINITION MULTIMEDIA INTERFACE)

The HDMI cable is a modern high-definition audio and video connection. It is used with TVs, gaming systems, home theaters, computers and high-definition monitors. A standard HDMI cable has an identical connector on each end. There are 19 separate wires inside. They carry audio and video data along with control signals, low voltage supply, Ethernet and copy protection.
Standard size HDMI cables are called Type A. Compact devices such as smartphones, cameras and camcorders use small form factor connectors such as mini HDMI (type C) or micro HDMI (type D). Learn more about HDMI here.

HEADPHONE CONNECTIONS (1/4″ AND 1/8″)

Stereo headphone jacks come in two sizes: full size (1/4″) and mini (1/8″). Home audio/video components such as CD players, receivers and headphone amplifiers use 1/4″ connections. Smartphones, tablets and computers use the smaller 1/8″ connector. Headphones with 1/4″ plugs can be cut to 1/8″ for connection to a mobile device. Headphones that use a 1/8″ plug can be extended to 1/4″ to fit equipment that uses a full-size connection.

LFE (Subwoofer output)

Home theater receivers use one RCA output to connect a subwoofer – this is “.1” in a 5.1 system. This output is often referred to as LFE. It sends bass information to a powered subwoofer. A subwoofer cable is used to connect the LFE.

LIGHTNING-TO-USB CABLE

Lightning-to-USB cable for Apple mobile devices. It provides charging and data syncing for current iPhones, iPads and iPods. It features a patented 8-pin connector on one end and a Type A USB plug on the other end. The Lightning cable has replaced the 30-pin-to-USB cable used for older Apple devices.

MHL (HIGH DEFINITION MOBILE COMMUNICATION)

MHL is a technology standard that uses HDMI to transmit high definition content from an audio/video source to a compatible display. One display end of the MHL cable is an HDMI type A plug. There is a USB connection at the source end. The USB type depends on the device you are using. Here is a list of compatible MHL equipment.
MHL-enabled sources include Android™ phones and tablets, Blu-ray players, and video streaming devices. Compatible monitors include TVs, computer monitors, and car stereos. Read more about MHL here.

MINI DISPLAYPORT

Mini DisplayPort is a small digital connection that delivers digital audio and video to a compatible display. Mini DisplayPort is primarily used on Apple computers, but can also be found on some Windows® computers. The Mini DisplayPort connection can be converted to HDMI using an external adapter (converter).

MINI-TOSLINK CABLE

A Mini-Toslink cable is used to connect a digital source to a standard optical digital connection. At one end is a mini-optical plug, almost identical to a 3.5mm analog audio connection. At the other end of the cable is a standard optical digital connection. Mini-Toslink outputs are found on Macbook® computers and other portable digital devices. A full size optical connection can be converted to a mini optical connector with an adapter.

RCA MULTI-CHANNEL INPUTS

RCA multi-channel inputs connect an analog source to a receiver or amplifier. They are mainly used with high quality Blu-ray, DVD and Super Audio CD players. These elite turntables offer high quality spatial decoding and digital-to-analogue conversion. Their internal circuitry often gives better results than connecting to a receiver via HDMI. The 5.1 setup has separate connections for front left and right, surround left and right, and center. The 7.1 system adds connections for left and right surround back. “.1” is a subwoofer connection, sometimes referred to as LFE for low frequency effects.

OPTICAL DIGITAL CABLE (TOSLINK)

Optical digital cable uses light energy to transmit a digital audio signal from one component to another. Inside the cable are very thin optical fibers that transmit the signal. Optical digital connections are found on most audio/video devices.

PHONO INPUT (for a turntable)

The phono input is a pair of dedicated RCA connections for a turntable. It is found on stereo amplifiers, stereo receivers, and home theater receivers. The input signal is passed through a phono preamplifier circuit, where special sound processing and voltage boost are applied. The Phono inputs look identical to the other analog stereo RCA inputs on the rear panel, but are only used to connect a turntable.
Units with a Phono input also have a ground screw for connecting the turntable’s ground wire. If your receiver or preamplifier does not have a phono input, you can use an external phono stage. This allows you to connect the player to any line input. Learn more about connecting a turntable to the receiver here.

SPEAKER CABLE

Speaker cable is required to connect a speaker system to an amplifier or receiver. The speaker cable has two leads: one for the positive signal and one for the negative. Typically, these cables are marked with (+) and (-) symbols or are distinguished by the color of the insulator to help distinguish them from each other.

Add speaker terminals to bare wire for additional connection. Read more about speaker wire here.

SCART (EuroSCART)

21-pin AV connector. The French “Association of Manufacturers of Radio and Television Receivers”, created the connector in the mid-1970s. Signals transmitted via SCART include both composite and RGB (with composite timing) video, stereo audio input/output, and digital signaling. The standard was extended at the end of 1980s to support new S-Video signals. The TV can be brought out of standby mode and automatically switched to the appropriate AV input when the connected SCART device is turned on. In Europe, SCART was the most common method of connecting AV equipment and the standard connector for such devices. Over time, SCART was supplanted by the digital HDMI interface.

SPEAKON® CONNECTOR

The Speakon connector is a type of plug used to securely connect speakers and amplifiers. They are commonly used with recording and professional equipment. The Speakon jacks are also used to connect the speaker output to compatible subwoofers with power and front channel outputs from a built-in amplifier, power amplifier, or stereo receiver. The Speakon connector is also known by the generic designation NL4.

STEREO MINI-TO-MINI CABLE

Stereo minijack-to-minijack cables are commonly referred to as auxiliary or “extra” cables.

STEREO MINIJACK-TO-DUAL RCA CABLE 1/8″ stereo mini connection on one end and a pair of RCA plugs on the other end. They are used to connect devices with 1/8″ output to receivers AND amplifiers with left and right RCA inputs.

STEREO RCA CABLE

Stereo RCA cables connect two analog audio components. They are found on most types of audio/video equipment. Stereo RCA cables are supplied in pairs, with one connection for the left audio channel and another for the right channel.

S-VIDEO CABLE

S-video cables use a round 4-pin connector used to transmit analog video. The “S” in S-video stands for “separate”. S-video is not used these days, but it can be found on older DVD players, VCRs, and TVs.

THUNDERBOLT

Thunderbolt is a high-speed digital I/O technology commonly found on Macintosh® computers. It transmits audio, video and other data through a single connection. It is used with hard drives, monitors, and other Thunderbolt compatible devices. Thunderbolt has replaced Firewire as the digital connection on Apple computers.

USB

USB is a digital interface that connects compatible devices together. It is used to transmit audio, video and other digital information. Originally designed for computers, USB cables are now used to transfer data and charge a wide variety of components. This is a common connection method for smartphones, camcorders, digital cameras, keyboards, and printers. USB inputs can be found on computers, TVs, home theater receivers, and car stereos. Flash drives are also connected via USB. A standard USB connection is considered Type A – this is the one that plugs into your computer. There are other variants of USB that come in different sizes and shapes of connectors. Type B USB plugs are commonly used with printers. Micro USB plugs can be found on smartphones and other portable devices. Here is a complete list of USB options and connector types.

VGA CABLE

The VGA cable has 15 pins and carries an analog video signal. It is mainly used to connect the computer to an external monitor. It is also popular for connecting a computer to a TV that has a PC input.

XLR CABLES

XLR cables transfer analog signal between compatible audio components. They are commonly used with high quality two channel systems as well as microphones.
The XLR connector has three pins – a positive conductor, a negative conductor and ground. The presence of a ground wire makes XLR cables known as “balanced” or “balanced” cables. This helps to reduce electronic noise throughout the cable. A latch built into the round XLR plug secures it tightly in the receiving jack, ensuring a secure connection.

Which speaker cable should I buy, and which one should I never buy? – Article from Blog 1-TECH

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Very often, when choosing an audio cable for a speaker system, people think that the more beautiful the cable, the better it works. And a beautiful “wrapper” is more often specially used just for the visual appeal of the product. Also, as a rule, a cable buyer rarely finds time to listen to the proposed model, or even simply there is no such opportunity at the outlet itself.

Everyone understands that a professional cable is a good cable, but not everyone knows that professionals do not need “show-offs” in the form of juicy insulation, colorful packaging. Therefore, a professional speaker cable will have the simplest appearance, and its insulation will be plain or just black.

But the consumer buys with his eyes… Therefore, we decided to prepare this short article to help beginner music lovers and home theater lovers.

A bit of theory. In order for the sound from the speakers to please the ears, you must first please them yourself and connect the wires that you need to them. Usually, the cables that are used to connect to speakers are called “acoustic” or “speaker”, and now also “speaker”.

Let’s start simple:

The ability of wires to pass electric current through them depends on the materials used in their manufacture. And, surprisingly, silver, not gold, is the champion among conductors. The first 4 places of the competition in conductivity among chemical elements are distributed as follows:

1	Ag Silver
2	Cu Copper
3	Au Gold
4	Al Aluminum

To avoid a short circuit, it is customary to insulate the wires, so the metal conductors are wrapped or filled with something that does not conduct electricity. There are no types of insulation, but its main task is to prevent the wires from closing with neighbors or with a person.

The wires themselves consist either of a single thick wire or of many thin wires (“strands”) twisted together. And they are called “single-core” or “multi-core”. A stranded wire loses to a single-core wire in the ability to conduct current, but wins in many other competitions, especially in flexibility and “non-breakability” from repeated bending. But we do not advise you to be very mistaken – everything breaks from repeated kinks and the stranded cord too.

How does the cable affect the sound quality?

First, about the “elite” Hi-Fi and Hi-End standards: Discussions on the topic “High fidelity” for at least 50 years. And then and now the conclusion is the same: if you want to hear the correct reproduction – go to an acoustic concert. There is not and will not be an absolutely linear technique in the world that will record and reproduce sound without distortion as it sounded during recording. Distortions are inevitable, and speculation on this will have no end. And what technique to choose remains a matter of taste and is limited by the size of the wallet and common sense, if any. The most important criterion is whether you like it or not.

For example, the statement that the use of silver-plated copper in Hi-End cables improves the reproduction of overtones is, as one of our good friends said, “anti-tank nonsense”. Not only does silver not differ much in conductivity from copper, but also the effect of the propagation of high-frequency currents along the surface of the conductor begins to affect the radio frequency range, and for the sound and ultrasonic ranges it is negligible. But the wires are “richly” decorated and people with wallets willingly believe that only this cable is needed by their equipment.

So about such a cable, one can safely quote V. Vysotsky: “it was of good use as from a goat’s milk, but there was no harm either.”

What about oxygen-free copper OFC (Oxygen-Free Copper) and monocrystalline copper OSS (Ohno Continuous Casting)? Both varieties have a lot of wonderful properties. Oxygen-free copper is purified from oxygen and oxides dissolved in it by heating and pouring in a vacuum or other environment that provides protection from oxides and other impurities. Its structure becomes homogeneous and does not create obstacles for the movement of charged particles. For the production of OSS, an even more sophisticated technology is used. Both types are widely used in microelectronics, space and other high-tech industries.

But in relation to acoustics, one should remember the popular expression of physicians “Vitamins enrich the patient’s urine and the pharmacist’s pocket”. All the reasons a la “reduces the degree of sound distortion and the level of extraneous noise”, “are not subject to internal corrosion and their conductivity does not deteriorate over time” are intended for the inexperienced ear of the willing to pay buyer.

Once again: if the conductor is made of copper, then whether it is “single-crystal” or “oxygen-free”, or both together, does not have any significant meaning for acoustic systems. All these advantages appear below the sensitivity zone of the human ear and the conductor noise is several orders of magnitude lower than the noise level emitted by transistors and other radio components.

For speaker cables, the main thing is that they have copper in them and that it does not rust in the manner of “Chinese” brass on plumbing fittings. As for “non-corrosion resistance”, copper feels great even in river and sea water, so inside a normally made insulation it will last a hundred years.

What is worth knowing about the cross section of the speaker cable?

Transmitted energy losses depend on the cross section of the conductor. To find out what section the wire has, it must be cut exactly across and calculate the area of ​​​​the end. Accordingly, the thicker the wire, the larger the cross section.

In the US, they invented their own standard, calling it “ American Wire Gauge System ” or abbreviated AWG , which, in order to more sting the Europeans. they also turned it upside down, that is, the larger the caliber, the smaller the diameter. The table of correspondence of calibers to areas is extensive, but for example, here are a few commonly used sizes for single-core conductors:

AWG value

Diameter, mm

Cross-section, mm2

27

0.361

0.1023

25

0.405

0.128

26

0.455

0.162

24

0.511

0.205

22

0.644

0. 325

20

0.812

0.517

19

0.912

0.652

18

1.024

0.8235

17

1.15

1.038

16

1.29

1.307

15

1.45

1.65

14

1.628

2.081

13

1.828

2.624

11

2. 308

4.17

Why do you even need to calculate the cross section of speaker cable for laying speaker cords? The fact is that if the metal is not an ideal conductor, then it is heated by the current passing through it. This means that if you have powerful acoustics, you will have to take a fairly thick wire. And there is also a direct dependence of the cross section on the length. You should know that the longer the path to the speaker, the greater the resistance of the conductors, and hence the loss in volume and quality. But the larger the cross section of the conductor, the lower its resistivity, therefore, by taking a thicker wire, you are guaranteed not to lose a single precious watt from the amplifier released.

An example of calculating the required section of an audio cable:

Home acoustics are most often connected with a two-wire multi-core cable and this type is the most common speaker cable option.

It remains to determine its cross section. To do this, you need to find out how much the columns themselves resist the current supplied to them. To find out what resistance your acoustics have, you need to look in the passport or on the back wall. If you didn’t find out anything, look for a device that measures resistance (tester, multimeter, ohmmeter) and measure it yourself.

The lower the resistance of the column, the more current it will consume, which means that a larger section will be required. There is such a parameter as current density, that is, what current flows through a unit area. It remains to calculate what current your acoustic system will consume, for which you need to use this formula: I = PR, (where I is current, P is acoustic power, R is resistance). Dividing the obtained value by the standard current density, we obtain the minimum cross section. For example, a column with a power of 100 watts and a resistance of 4 ohms needs a current equal to the root of (100/5) = 5 amperes. If you read the PUE (look for yourself what it means), then the nominal current density for copper wires lies in the range – 2.7 … 3.5 A / mm2. That is, the minimum wire cross-section for such speakers is 1.8 … 2.3 mm2. That’s why you should dance. For complete confidence in our calculations, it remains to determine what resistance this wire will have. To do this, we find the specific resistance of copper conductors – 0.017 Ohm•mm2/m. We divide this value by the cross section, multiply by twice the length of the cable and we get that the maximum resistance for 10 m of wire with a cross section of 1.8 squares will be 0.017 / 1.8 * 20 = 0.189Ohm. This is 21 times less than the resistance of the speaker, which is quite consistent with anything seriously unjustified requirements for Hi-Fi technology. Calculations have shown that for lengths within 5 meters, the cable resistance can be safely neglected. The main thing is to be sure that the wires are really made of copper, and not a copper-plated rag. When the sellers will assure you that you need at least 4 squares, this means that they trivially want to cash in on you.

Which speaker cable should I choose?

Like almost everywhere, the main selection criteria are quality and durability.

It’s sad, but if you need both, then you won’t be able to save much. In addition, imitation technologies are now extremely developed and we regularly buy at “favorable discounts”, and almost immediately we understand that we have not received the benefit.

Professional speaker cables German brand KLOTZ a-i-s

LYP0..	LY2..	SCY2..	SCh3..
Parallel conductors. Single insulation (black, white, transparent)	Conductors are intertwined with each other with a certain pitch. Double insulated.	Conductors are intertwined with each other with a certain pitch. Double embed insulation.	Conductors are intertwined with each other with a certain pitch. Double non-combustible insulation.

Multi-core models of professional speaker cables for Bi-wiring and Bi-amping

LSC..	LYS..	SCh5..D	SCFR4..
The conductors are intertwined with each other with a certain pitch. Double insulated.	2.5 mm² sensor wire added. Double reinforced insulation.	Conductors are intertwined with each other with a certain pitch. Double non-combustible insulation.	Twisted conductor structure. Non-combustible insulation of increased reliability.

What is important to pay attention to when buying a speaker cable?

How a copper conductor looks. If the cable is very soft or very hard, then this is a reason for doubt. It may well be that you are offered a copper-plated alloy. not pure copper. All alloys are obviously worse than copper in conductivity. The argument that they are better than copper because they do not oxidize or rust is an attempt to mislead. Copper oxidation processes are very slow and if the contact was normal, then nothing will happen to it for many years. And the rest of the copper is covered with chemically neutral insulation and it will additionally prevent the destruction of the metal. By the way, this is a very important indicator of quality: the “freshly bare” strands of a new wire should not be darker than untreated copper, if this is not the case, then either the copper is of terrible quality, or the insulation is aggressive and will soon corrode the metal. We came across similar samples that literally crumbled in our hands.

– Feel and remember the insulation. Normal should not stick to hands and leave traces of paint. It should be moderately soft, elastic, but strong and not crack at a sharp bend. Double insulation is more expensive than single insulation, if this is not the case, then you need to clarify why.

– Naturally, there should be a color marking of one of the wires. Otherwise, you will suffer from “phasing” your acoustics, and this is extremely important for surround sound systems, so that the speakers oscillate in the same direction.

– Manufacturers of high-quality cable must label their products and put meter marks so that it is easy to count the right pieces.

– To be sure that this is not a fake, it makes sense to search the manufacturer’s network and see how his product looks and whether it is similar to what you are offered.

Responsible sellers value their reputation and try not to deceive anyone, except perhaps tax collectors and customs officers. The point is small – to find a responsible seller. By visiting our website, you have come to the right place and we, appreciating your trust, will try to make your acoustics sound good. We offer the best speaker cables at affordable prices and ready-made solutions for connecting Hi-Fi and High-End audio systems.

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions for Speaker Cable Customers

Here is a list of answers to questions that a buyer should ask himself when choosing a speaker cable:

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	Solution evaluation
Question	Excellent	Satisfactory	Rather bad
Where to buy?	From trade sellers	Electronics stores	Household stores, markets
How many strands should be in the wire?	Many and specially entwined	Minimum 7	One
What metal should the cable be made of?	Copper OFC or RF	Electrical copper	Special “copper” from China for developing countries, aluminum
Do I need a silver-plated cable?	For your taste, you will not feel the difference.	No	“What is this..?”
Which section should I choose?	It is desirable to calculate	Not less than 0.5 mm2 + 0.5 mm2 for every 50 W of power	The cheaper the better, because we do not connect the iron!
How many layers of insulation do you need?	Two	One	And why is it, let it go in parallel or fence it off with matches.
What color should the wire insulation be?	Mandatory different, e.g. red and blue, outer sheath can be one color	The insulation must have a colored stripe (white, red) so as not to confuse plus and minus	What’s the difference, we’ll figure it out if anything . .
What to do with excess cable?	Cut off all excess, leaving small allowances for installation and dismantling.	First, leave a couple of meters of stock in case of some rearrangement, then cut off the excess.	Do not cut anything, we will stuff the bay behind the column.
Stripping tool	Special tool	Construction knife, but very carefully.	Teeth or scissors..
What should I do if, during stripping, I cut several wires and their remains slightly protrude beyond the insulation?	Clean up again	It is better to redo, but if not too many strands are cut, then you can cut them “at the root” so that nothing protrudes beyond the edges of the insulation.