Flat speaker wire is a type of speaker wire that has been designed to be as thin and flat as possible. This makes it ideal for use in applications where space is limited, such as behind walls or under carpets. Flat speaker wire is also available in a variety of colors, making it easy to match the décor of your room.
There are a number of different factors to consider when choosing the best flat speaker wire for your needs. These include the gauge of the wire, the length of the wire, the type of insulation, and the type of connectors.
Gauge
The gauge of the wire refers to the thickness of the copper conductor. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the conductor and the better the sound quality. However, thicker wires are also more expensive and more difficult to install. For most home theater systems, 16-gauge or 14-gauge flat speaker wire is a good choice.
Length
The length of the wire will depend on the distance between your speakers and your amplifier or receiver. Be sure to buy enough wire to reach your speakers with a little bit extra to spare.
Insulation
The insulation on the wire is important for protecting the copper conductor from damage. The most common types of insulation are PVC and Teflon. PVC insulation is less expensive and easier to install, but it is not as durable as Teflon insulation. Teflon insulation is more expensive and more difficult to install, but it is also more durable and provides better sound quality.
Connectors
Flat speaker wire can be terminated with a variety of different connectors, such as banana plugs, spade connectors, and bare wire connectors. Banana plugs are the easiest to install, but they can also be the most expensive. Spade connectors are less expensive than banana plugs, but they can be more difficult to install. Bare wire connectors are the least expensive and easiest to install, but they are not as secure as banana plugs or spade connectors.
Best Flat Speaker Wire Recommendations
Here are a few of the best flat speaker wire recommendations:
- Monoprice 102747 12AWG Speaker Wire
This is a high-quality flat speaker wire that is available in a variety of lengths and colors. It features 12-gauge copper conductors and PVC insulation. The Monoprice 102747 is a good all-around flat speaker wire that is suitable for most home theater systems.
- Amazon Basics 16-Gauge Speaker Wire Cable
This is an affordable flat speaker wire that is available in a variety of lengths and colors. It features 16-gauge copper conductors and PVC insulation. The Amazon Basics 16-Gauge is a good choice for budget-minded audiophiles.
- AudioQuest Rocket 11 Speaker Cable
This is a high-end flat speaker wire that features 16-gauge copper conductors and Teflon insulation. The AudioQuest Rocket 11 is a good choice for audiophiles who are looking for the best possible sound quality.
When choosing the best flat speaker wire for your needs, be sure to consider the gauge of the wire, the length of the wire, the type of insulation, and the type of connectors. The Monoprice 102747 12AWG Speaker Wire is a good all-around flat speaker wire that is suitable for most home theater systems. The Amazon Basics 16-Gauge Speaker Wire Cable is a good choice for budget-minded audiophiles. The AudioQuest Rocket 11 Speaker Cable is a good choice for audiophiles who are looking for the best possible sound quality.
