When it comes to outdoor speakers, the most crucial decision you’ll have to make is choosing the right size speaker wire. After all, if you don’t have the correct wire size, you won’t get the sound quality your outdoor speakers can produce. With so many different sizes and types available, knowing which is best suited for your needs can be challenging. So here’s a guide to tell you What Size Speaker Wire For Outdoor Speakers?
Why Does Speaker Wire Size Matter?
The diameter of the speaker wire you use determines how much electrical current flows through it, affecting sound quality and volume. A larger diameter speaker wire is better equipped to handle higher levels of electricity, producing louder sounds with less distortion. However, remember that too large a size will also result in more resistance, which can cause a decrease in performance.
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How to Choose the Right Size Speaker Wire for Outdoor Speakers
Gauge Size Matters
The gauge size of a speaker wire is essential in determining how much power it can handle. A more significant gauge number indicates a thinner wire, while a smaller one indicates a thicker wire.
The larger the gauge number, the less power it can handle, and vice versa. When selecting a speaker wire for outdoor use, it’s essential to select one thick enough to handle the amount of power from your amplifier or receiver. A good rule of thumb is to choose a 16-gauge or thicker speaker wire for outdoor use.
Length Matters Too
When choosing your speaker wires, you also need to consider their length; longer lengths will require thicker wires than shorter ones because they will need more power running through them to operate correctly.
For example, if you have two pairs of 8-foot speakers connected by 10-foot cables (20 feet total), then using 12-gauge instead of 16-gauge would be beneficial since more power will be needed for such a long run. As always, consult an expert before deciding which type and size of speaker wire are best for your situation.
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The Importance of Choosing The Right Speaker Wire
The size of the speaker wire used will have an impact on sound quality. If you choose too small a gauge (thickness) of wire, there will be too much resistance, leading to signal loss.
This means that some of the sound sent from your amplifier won’t make it through to your speakers, resulting in poor sound quality or even complete signal loss. On the other hand, if you choose too thick a gauge of wire, you may have too much current flowing through it, which can damage your equipment or even cause a fire hazard.
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Can You Use Regular Speaker Wire Outdoors?
Regular speaker wire shouldn’t be used outdoors, as it will not be able to withstand the weathering and corrosion that can occur with exposure to direct sunlight or moisture. The insulation isn’t adequate protection against these environmental factors and could wreak havoc over time.
It’s best to opt for outdoor-rated speaker wire, specifically designed to protect against outdoor elements like temperature, UV rays, and moisture. While it may cost a bit more, you’ll never have to worry about maintaining your wires and ensuring they’re still connected. Outdoor-rated speaker wire is designed for long-term reliability and hassle-free installment.
Also Read: How To Make My Speakers Louder?
Is It Better To Run Speakers in Series or Parallel?
When it comes to running sound equipment, the choice between connecting speakers in either series or parallel can be challenging. While this decision will depend on your system’s specific setup and requirements, there are a few general rules to keep in mind.
Generally speaking, running multiple speakers in series allows you to drive each one with less power, resulting in more robust overall output from your system, and is ideal for larger spaces. On the other hand, running speakers in parallel provide a more robust low-end response due to increased wattage in each speaker, allowing them to handle more detailed sound – which is better for smaller spaces. Knowing which setup is best depends on whether you prioritize sheer power or precision.
Also Read: Are Speakers Louder In Series Or Parallel?
Conclusion
Now you know, What Size Speaker Wire For Outdoor Speakers? It’s important to remember that when selecting speaker wires for outdoor use, gauge size and length matter when determining which type and size are best suited for your needs. Please consult with an expert before making any decisions, as they can advise what will work best in your situation. With this guide as a reference, however, you should now understand how these factors affect your choice and can find the right speaker wires for your outdoor speakers!