When to Use RCA Cables
The many braided wire cables with RCA plugs in red/white, black/white (or any color) are ideal for powered subwoofers. The powered subwoofer has an amplifier built into the cabinet. A single cable is good if your powered sub has a single female RCA input. If this case, the connection is usually a simple line-level (10K ohm) connection output from a surround sound receiver. It is no different or more difficult than attaching any audio component to an amp that is itself connected to a speaker. Note: if you have both left and right connections on the sub, generally connect them both with a Y-plug (one-two splitter).
When to Use Other Cable
A passive subwoofer needs an external amp to boost the signals, and the connection from any amp to speakers is done with speaker wire. 12-gauge lamp cord is always good, because its insulation provides the same shielding as very expensive cables that might tout bass-management capabilities. Use this gauge wire for long cable runs of beyond 15 feet, i.e. whenever cable is run around the perimeter of a room, since low frequencies draw more current than high frequencies.
75-ohm coax cable can also be used as long as it's terminated with an end acceptable to the sub's binding post/connection point.
What's in a Name?
The simple answer is higher price. For example, Python Digital Video Line HDTV High Resolution Ultra Shield Cable is a mouthful and expensive but no better than self-made 12-gauge lamp cord with your choice of soldered ends. Using the diameter of standard coax cable used by cable installers for TV as a guide, buy lamp cord/speaker wire from any hardware or electronics store to make your own high-quality cables at a fraction of the brand-name price at the perfect length for your particular installation. The main things you want from the cable are good noise rejection, low capacitance and solid construction, especially for longer cable lengths of 15 feet or more.
Home theater speakers can be installed in a variety of ways, but there are guidelines that must be followed to create the proper listening environment. |
 | Choosing great home theater speakers isn't too hard to do, if you know what specs to consider. Times were when a pair of speakers were all you needed for great stereo sound. That won't cut it for home theater, though, where 5.1 sound is a minimum and newer, more exotic arrangements can have you putting up to eight speakers around your room. |
 | How to get the right gauge and length speaker wire when you're setting up speakers. |
 | Find out what components are in a speaker and how they reproduce sound. |
Home theaters are fabulous because they allow you to experience the thrill and excitement that comes from watching movies at the cinema in the privacy and comfort of your own home. By making smart, informed decisions when you are setting up and buying equipment for your home theater you will have a fun, relaxing and enjoyable space for years to come. |
