2. home-theater
  3. 161324-122705

Which in-wall speaker wire

I am in the process of finishing my basement, drywall will start in a few weeks, so I need to get all the speaker wire installed. I am looking at doing a mid-level 5.1.4 system (~5-10k for receiver and speakers). Will speaker wire make a big difference on the sound? I know on my 2 channel listening system it does, but I am not sure on surround and ceiling speakers. I have tried to research it but I have come up empty.

Also, I am interested in doing a 7.1.4 system, but 1 side speaker can go in the wall,  the other side of the area will be open to a bar area. Can I install a directional ceiling speaker on the side and get the same (similar) listening effect to balance the opposite side in the wall? Or should I just stick with a 5.1.4 set up? I prefer to save time and money if its not going to sound right.

Thank you,
Justin
weiky
4 responses Add your response
mike_in_nc
1,147 posts
 
I probably would use Mogami W3103. It is professionally engineered for the purpose but not priced for audiophiles. It should be fine within walls; I don’t think it’s rated for plenum use, if that matters to you.

P.S. The Belden 5000-series cable from Blue Jeans Cable also has very low R,L,C and is professionally engineered for speaker use. Blue Jeans says it’s UL-rated for in-wall use. It also would be a good choice.
dmk_hifi
65 posts
 
My Magnolia shop used AudioQuest SLIP 14/4 and used two conductors per channel. SLIP also comes in a DB version that uses higher purity copper. I'd probably use it if I were using it for front channels.
elevick
2,636 posts
 
The main issue you don't want to face is humm.  Shielded cable helps a ton.  I would be more worried about crossing over any other wires or sources that could cause issues.
weiky OP
4 posts
 
I always try to keep my speaker wires away from regular electrical lines, nothing worse than firing up a system to get a bunch of humming. I just wasn't sure if wire like audioquest will really enhance the sound coming out of surround speakers or not. 
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