Hi-Fi Components and Accessories

Speaker cable gauge, length and plugs

Speaker cable has two conductors, and its thickness is given as an AWG number, where a lower number is thicker. Short runs to 8-ohm speakers work with 16 AWG, while longer runs or 4-ohm speakers call for 14 or 12 AWG. Keep the polarity consistent: red to red and black to black at both ends. Banana plugs make connections quick and secure, while bare wire or spade ends suit speakers with screw posts. A cable listed in feet or meters should reach with a little slack.

Small amplifiers, speakers and the odd extras

This aisle is a mix, so identify the item type from the title. Amplifiers list power per channel and the speaker impedance they drive, and their inputs, such as RCA or Bluetooth, must match your source. Speakers and subwoofers should state whether they are powered. Cases and covers are made for specific devices. Other items, like speakerphones or alarm-clock speakers, use their own plugs and are not part of a stereo system.

Questions about Hi-Fi Components and Accessories

Do banana plugs fit every speaker?

Most binding posts accept them, but some speakers have a plastic safety plug in the hole that must be removed first, and a few terminals take only bare wire or spades. Check the speaker's terminals before choosing plugs.

How do I know which wire is positive on speaker cable?

Most cable marks one conductor with a stripe, a ridge, printed text or a copper color against silver. Connect the marked wire to the red terminal on both amplifier and speaker, or the speakers will play out of phase and sound thin.

Why does speaker impedance matter?

It is the load the speaker presents to the amplifier, usually 4 or 8 ohms. The amplifier must be rated for it, and a lower impedance draws more power. Check both specifications before connecting, especially when joining more than one speaker per channel.