Rating of the best speaker cables for 2022

An speaker cable is a wire that is designed to transmit a signal to various devices - sound amplifiers, for example, audio speakers.

Specifications and design

Usually, for the cables under consideration, the conductive cores are made of copper. This material is optimally suited for the transmission of electrical signals, because it has wear resistance, and it is able to accurately broadcast different audio frequencies. As a standard, technical copper is used in cables (this option is very economical), but oxygen-free copper, which has improved conductivity, can also be used. The best option is still considered pure copper, which is capable of creating excellent sound transmission.

Another option for the metal for the manufacture of cores can be silver. The use of silver is extremely small, due to its high cost. However, it is silver that has excellent electrical conductivity, which fully guarantees the quality of the broadcast.

IMPORTANT! Not only the core material will determine the high-quality work of the wire - the insulation of the wire will also play an important role in this matter. The period of operation, as well as the predisposition to the transmission of extraneous noise and interference, will depend on its positive properties.

To insulate the acoustic cord, either polypropylene or Teflon is used. The latter material is preferred, but rarely used.Polyvinyl chloride is more common as an insulation material, but it is often inferior in its characteristics to the two above types of material, and in some cases it can even distort the sound.

Structurally, the object under consideration consists of one or more conductive wires, which, in principle, does not affect signal transmission, but its strength will depend on the number of wires. Thus, the more lived in it and the thinner they are, the greater the elasticity of the object and the less the risk of fracture.

Also, one of the most important characteristics of the considered audio cords is the diameter of their section. Traditionally, this parameter varies from 0.25 to 4 millimeters square. It is necessary to select the cross-sectional diameter based on the tasks expected for the wire. So, in the instructions for audio systems, as a rule, information is indicated on the recommended caliber of the acoustic cord. If such information is not available, then the required cross-sectional diameter must be calculated, taking as a basis the following data: the resistance of the material and power of the amplifier or speaker, coupled with the length of the wire. If the diameter is not wide enough, then its ability to transmit the entire frequency range will decrease, which will clearly affect the sound. However, the more strands in the wire and the larger its diameter, the higher its cost.

Varieties of speaker cables

As a general rule, they can be divided into single (monolithic) and stranded. The division is further divided into three main types:

• Beam-shaped - the worst option for broadcasting sound, because the cores in such a wire are placed unevenly, and this has a significant impact on the sound quality. Moreover, the bundled structure of the cord weakly suppresses extraneous noise.
• Concentric - in such a wire, the cores are placed evenly inside. Such options have a constant cross section along the entire length, which indicates a high quality of sound transmission.
• Rope - these wires, in fact, are an improved model of concentric ones. Their structure implies a geometrically correct interweaving of cores inside, which indicates extended elasticity indicators.

Factors affecting sound transmission

Impact of impedance on audio transmission

This factor begins to affect the dynamics of sound transmission in general, in the case when it (resistance) exceeds 5% of the total impedance of the speakers. Two parameters influence the formation of resistance:

• Speaker cable length;
• Cross-sectional area.

It is worth noting that the shorter the speaker cord, the less resistance is formed. Professionals advise to ensure the best sound conditions in such a way that the speaker cable is as short as possible (wherever possible), but it is necessary to ensure that the amplifiers (speakers) are as far apart as possible. This leads to the conclusion that the resistance will be proportional to the length of the wire, and therefore, with a shorter cable length, the resistance will be minimized. And space speakers and amplifiers away from each other is necessary in order to maintain the proper stereo effect.

IMPORTANT! Still, it is worth trying to ensure that the length of the wires to each column more or less coincides with each other, with all their possible shortening. In this simple way, it is possible to balance the entire system much better.

Regarding the effect on the cross-sectional resistance, the following rule will work here: the lower the sensor is located and the thicker the wire, the less resistance will be created. The main thing is not to exceed the total resistance threshold given out by the amplifier (or speakers).

One-cable and two-cable connection

Sound transmission to speakers or an amplifier can occur by connecting with one or two cables. Naturally, even a speaker with two outputs for speaker cables can be connected with one cable, but a double connection is considered preferable. The whole point is that dual connection allows you to create a more open space of sound, and its detail is significantly increased. On the other hand, connecting with a single cable can create a more monolithic and organic musical sound. This quality of a single cable connection may be required in special circumstances (for example, when broadcasting music in a confined space).

IMPORTANT! It is worth noting that a two-cable connection will always cost more than a single-cable option.

Importance of Speaker Cable Direction for Transmission Quality

Professionals from the world of acoustics ensure that directional sound always sounds the best. This suggests that in order to obtain a better sound direction, the cable that transmits it must be laid in a certain direction. Therefore, the connection must be made in such a way that the direction imprint indicated on the wire insulation is read in the same direction as the signal is transmitted.The specified connection scheme will best affect the sound synchronization and overall consistency of the entire assembled audio system. Practice shows that if the wire is not connected in the direction of the signal, then its clarity may decrease from "insignificant" to "below average".

"Warming up" speaker cable

Professionals say that a new cable needs to be “warmed up” in order to achieve a peak in the quality of the transmitted sound from it. Such a "warm-up" involves work (naturally, with interruptions) after the initial connection for at least 150 hours. As it “warms up”, the quality of the signals transmitted by it will also change, which, when comparing the first turn on and the last one, can be noticed simply by comparing the microphone recordings of the output audio.

Working speaker cables with speakers

A proper speaker cable is one that has low resistivity and excellent electrical conductivity. Samples based on pure copper are perfect, because the amount of impurities in it does not exceed 1%. Also, for speakers it is desirable to use wires, the winding of which is made of noble metals (naturally, this option will not be cheap). In cases where the speakers are used over a large area of ​​​​the room, then the silver core in the wire will be the ideal solution (especially since it will significantly reduce the resistance compared to copper). But you should not use a product with a tin coating to work in spacious rooms - it will not broadcast high-frequency sounds well.

It is quite easy to choose a wire for a column by making the necessary calculations in steps:

• First, you need to find out the maximum possible resistance for the cable.To do this, the resistance value of the connected speaker (indicated on its body) is multiplied by 0.05.
• Then it is necessary to calculate the available resistance, which looks like the length of the cable, multiplied by the resistance value of the material of its manufacture, and divided by the cross-sectional area.
• At the end, you should compare the results of the first and second actions. If the second result exceeds the first by more than 5%, then such a cable cannot be used.

If you have problems with exceeding the result, you can try to shorten the length of the cord or you will have to use a cord with a larger cross section.

IMPORTANT! Any audio cord connected to speakers must be flexible and elastic, its insulation must not be damaged, and it must be even and rounded along its entire length.

Connecting to speakers

First of all, you need to make sure that all elements of the audio system are disconnected from the power supply. When connecting the cord to the speakers, be sure to observe polarity using the color markings (or plus/minus signs) on the speakers and the cord. When connecting a wire to audio speakers, you need to take into account the features of their connectors:

• Only bare wires are inserted into the spring-loaded speaker terminals. The mechanism of such connectors securely fixes the cable, it is easy to remove / insert. However, banana or spatula products cannot be connected to such a connector.
• All types of plugs can be used for connection with screw-type terminals. To connect the “spade” or bare wires, you just need to unscrew the nut and clamp the connector with it. "Double and single bananas" can be inserted directly into the terminal hole and no need to unscrew the nut.

IMPORTANT! It is worth noting that connecting bare wires to spring clips is the most effective, because it is believed that such a clip will provide more reliable contact.

Difficulties of choice

When buying an acoustic cable, you first need to pay attention to the inner core by probing it. If the wire seemed too rigid, then this is a reason for doubt. It is possible that the core is not made of copper, but of a copper-plated alloy, the conductivity of which leaves much to be desired.

IMPORTANT! The seller may insist that a copper-plated alloy is used in the speaker cable in order to prevent possible corrosion. However, such a statement is an obvious marketing ploy, because with proper insulation, the acoustic wire will have to be in conditions of high humidity for a VERY long time before corrosion processes begin.

As a result, you need to focus on the following points when buying:

• High-quality cord insulation should not stick to your hands and leave coloring marks. To the touch, the insulation should be moderately elastic and soft, however, at the same time, it must maintain sufficient strength and not break when excessively bent. Double insulation will increase the life of the wire, but it will also cost more.
• The color marking should be of an easily distinguishable color and shade, otherwise it is possible to get confused when connecting, because. the colors will not match the incoming terminals. This is especially important for surround sound systems, as if not connected correctly, you can “burn” the speakers (and in the worst case, the entire audio system).
• If a product is purchased “for a cut”, then a worthy manufacturer always supplies its products with meter marks so that the cable can subsequently be shortened by cutting it to the desired length.
• Naturally, when you find products of a well-known brand at a "bargain" price, you should look for its products in open sources and compare both the appearance and technical characteristics with those of the found cheap sample.

Operating rules

Before connecting the speaker cable for the first time, it is necessary to carefully inspect it for integrity, carefully checking the connectors, connectors, terminals and insulation. As a rule, the manufacturer, during the operation of his products, advises buyers to follow the simplest rules:

• Do not bend, squeeze or twist the cord strongly;
• The placement of the cord should not occur parallel to the network wires (this prohibition applies to absolutely all devices and structures that have ferrite components in their composition);
• The wire ends must be completely hidden in the connectors;
• It is strictly forbidden to combine "plus" and "minus" conductors in order to avoid a short circuit;
• If the cord is not in use, then it should be removed from the connector;
• Wire contacts must periodically undergo a cleaning procedure in order to avoid the appearance of traces of oxidation on them;
• To maintain sound quality, do not use wires that are too long.

Rating of the best speaker cables for 2022

Most Popular Designs

4th place: "In-Akustik Premium LS 2×4 mm2 m/cat"

An excellent sample of inexpensive, but high-quality lace. It is indeed capable of enhancing audio quality when properly connected.Its cross section is 2 millimeters, it has good insulation, it's just nice to hold it in your hands. "Warming up" this model does not require "sky-high" 150 hours - the difference in sound is already felt after two hours of work. With its very reasonable price, perhaps it will be the best solution. The recommended cost for retail chains is 410 rubles.

• Strong insulation;
• Does not require a long time period for "warming up";
• The best value for money.

• Not detected.

3rd place: QED Original m/kat

This model is characterized by a decent performance of insulation, high-quality laid cores. After a week of “warming up”, it starts to produce high-quality low and high frequencies. It is recommended to set the subwoofer to the “detect” position, because at nominal values, after the “warm-up” is completed, low frequencies may be output in excess of the capabilities of the reproducing equipment. Installation is very easy, and the cord itself is quite rigid, which protects it from kinks and creases. The recommended cost for retail stores is 600 rubles.

• Reliable isolation;
• Qualitative stiffness properties;
• Adequate cost.

• After "warming up" a little "loose" bass may occur.

2nd place: "Atlas Equator 2.0"

A good example of a qualitative combination of indicators of price and quality. Perfectly cut when buying "on a cut", has all the necessary markings. Low, medium and high frequencies are reproduced with high quality and with dignity without problems (after "warming up", of course). Voices, especially female ones, sound more dynamic and solid. The recommended cost for retail chains is 740 rubles.

• Dynamic sounding voice;
• Smooth balance;
• Soft and dense insulation.

• Long-term continuous use may degrade the treble sound.

1st place: "QED X-Tube 40 2×4.0 mm2 m/cat (QE1340)"

To improve the quality of sound transmission in this sample, a method of combining several individually isolated conductors within one wire is used. Thus, the conductor is located around the inner air core. This innovative way also provides the necessary flexibility. A single tubular conductor creates reduced cable induction and enhances insight into the audio transmission process. The recommended cost for retail chains is 1680 rubles.

• Innovative manufacturing technology;
• Soft and durable insulation;
• Possibility of using a twisted pair tool.

• Not detected.

HI-END/Hi-Fi samples

IMPORTANT! The samples presented below are considered the highest quality goods, because they are based on very high-quality metals - completely pure copper, silver, palladium and platinum. From this it is clear that they all belong to the professional segment and have the only serious drawback - a high price.

4th place: "Oyaide Tunami II SP-Y V2"

This model is a variation of the updated classics. Pure copper is used as a conductor, and polymer-polyolefin is used for insulation. Shielding has three layers and corresponds to EMI type protection (carbon and foil with a ground wire). Connectors are palladium and platinum plated. The output sound is powerful and coherent, it has a good effect on the overall scene.The overall quality of the entire structure can be described as "virtually indestructible". The established retail price is 43,000 rubles.

• Precious metal coated contacts;
• European level protection;
• Latest production.

• High price.

3rd place: "LAVARDIN Model CHR 317"

This wired acoustic model uses a proprietary technology that reduces sound distortion during broadcasting. Practice shows that when using this sample, the sound pattern is slightly "darkened". However, if the user is only looking for good bass with strong definition and speed, then such a cord will do just fine. The wire is made with high quality, the ends are covered with palladium. The recommended cost for retail chains is 60,000 rubles.

• Relief and high-speed basses;
• Dimming the high-frequency sound stage;
• Quality performance.

• High price.

2nd Place: "Tellurium Q Blue Diamond Speaker"

This brand is not very well known in the territory of the Russian Federation, but in vain. The firm has already earned a place of honor in the Hi-Fi/High End Equipment Hall of Fame. This wire contains a conductor of many strands, created on the basis of oxygen-free copper of 99.99% quality with a cross section of 2x2.5 millimeters square. For dielectric protection, Teflon insulation interspersed with polymer resins is used. The manufacturer himself claims that phase distortion on this cable is almost zero. Practice proves this statement, because when working with a stage, a high-quality, almost three-dimensional, sound picture is obtained. The study of low frequencies at the same time remains at a high level. Under such a connection, it is very easy to control the rhythm.The established cost for the retail network is 73,000 rubles.

• Teflon insulation with polymer resins;
• Stranded conductor made of oxygen-free copper;
• 3D sound output.

• High price.

1st place: "Nordost Leif Series Blue Heaven banana 2.0m"

This extruded ultra-flat speaker cable is used to connect audio systems in the classic way through 2 banana plugs. The design uses an innovative technology such as "Fatline", which is focused on the transmission of subtle nuances of musical content, while attenuating the effects of extraneous noise and interference. The product has received high marks among connoisseurs. The established cost for retail chains is 84,000 rubles.

• The ability to convey the subtleties of the musical signal;
• Reliable "2 banana" connectors;
• Reduction of extraneous noise.

• High price.

Instead of an epilogue

The analysis of the market of the materials under consideration has established that its composition is by no means homogeneous, and gradation on it, as such, does not exist. In principle, all speaker cables can be divided into "budget" and "expensive". There is simply no middle ground. This situation is due to the fact that with the use of expensive materials (noble metals) in the construction, the price of these goods jumps just a few hundred times. However, just the same, with the help of such noble components, it is possible to achieve maximum sound quality. It is somewhat pitiful that the domestic manufacturer is practically not represented on this market (at least, such products are simply absent among popular materials).