Loudspeaker Cables
A speaker cable carries a power signal from an amplifier to a speaker cabinet, so its construction differs from an instrument or microphone cable. It does not have shielding designed for low-level signals, but sufficiently thick conductors that can handle higher current. When choosing, focus mainly on length, conductor cross-section and the connectors at both ends to ensure they fit both your amplifier and speaker cabinet.
Do not use an instrument cable instead of a speaker cable
They may look similar on the outside, especially when they have the same jack connectors, but an instrument cable is designed for a low-level signal. On a power output, it may be too thin, overheat and reduce transmission quality. If you need to connect a guitar and pedal, choose instrument cables; a speaker cable belongs between the amplifier output and speaker cabinet. Audio cables carry signals between studio equipment.
Length, cross-section and connectors
| Parameter | What to check |
|---|---|
| Length | The range includes shorter models of around one metre as well as long cables of up to fifteen metres or more; choose the length according to the distance, without unnecessary extra slack, because cable resistance increases with length |
| Conductor cross-section | A thicker conductor handles higher power and longer runs better; compare the manufacturer's specifications |
| Connectors | Most commonly TS jack, while Speakon is also often used; check which sockets your amplifier and speaker cabinet have |
| Use | A durable design is useful on stage and in the rehearsal room, while fixed installations primarily require the right cross-section and length |
What to check before choosing
- Which connector type the amplifier and speaker cabinet have.
- Which cable length suits you without unnecessary extra slack.
- Whether the cable is designed for a speaker output, not an instrument signal.
- The conductor cross-section for the power and distance.
- The durability of the jacket if you frequently coil and transport the cable.
For long runs, also consider handling. A cable that is too stiff is difficult to coil and more likely to become damaged, so choose a more flexible jacket if you will transport it frequently. For fixed installations, focus on the durability of the insulation and the routing method.
You can find a wider selection in the ready-made cables category. If you need several signal lines in one, take a look at multicore cables, and if you are looking for a cable with another purpose, browse other cables.
