2. cables
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Please assure me I'm not going to burn my house down.

I recently bought some new mono class D amps to replace a stereo class D. I had a pair of identical diy power cords connected to the stereo amp and my preamp.

Well, with monos I was obviously going to use the identical power cords. So I needed a new PC for my pre, as the older diy version I had laying around just used thhn wire from Lowe’s and didn’t sound great. So, after some thought and research, I decided to make a PC out of cat 5 plenum cable. I kept it in its blue sleeve (containing 4 twisted pairs) and then I braided 3 lengths together for each conductor. I then took those three braids and braided them. What I have sounds incredible and I’m fairly confident that it is safe electrically.

Please reassure me. Or tell me I forgot about x, and that I should cease and desist. Or laugh at how cheap I am...

But really, I’m not going to start a fire here, am I? 8 conductors per length x 3 lengths for each conductor equals 24 strands of 24awg. Which equals 10awg for each conductor...
128x128toddverrone

Showing 2 responses by erik_squires

erik_squires
15,916 posts
 
Well, mine was more than just theory. It’s also legal liability.

Imaging trying to explain to a judge that the 4 house fire you caused should not have happened because you used 4 network cables braided together, and that you HAD to do it because your DAC was too bright otherwise...

I woudln't want to be in that courtroom at all.

Use only cables approved for use as power cords or get a hobby that doesn't risk your life and that of others.

Best,


E
erik_squires
15,916 posts
 
You may equate the gauge, but man, you are playing with fire, literally.

Let's say something does go wrong.... you could be held legally liable even if you do all the math right! :)

Much better to get a Connex shielded power cord and make your own.

Also, part of what you are not including in your calculations is the insulation temp rating. The insulation around Cat 5 signal wiring assumes nearly no current at all, while power cord insulation is rated to withstand the heat of the conductor at full current.

Best,


E
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