Speaker Cable Length

Posted by: stephenjohn on 12 January 2002

I'm new to this Name gaim so please accept my apologies if this is really obvious.

When I purchased my system [CD5 112/150, now with FC2, and Credos] back in June my dealer told me that the minimum cable length rcommended by Naim was 3 metres. Is this true? and if so why? I had thought that short cables would be better as tehy offered least resistance.

Steve

Posted on: 12 January 2002 by David Stewart

Apparently the reason for minimum cable lengths and indeed equal lengths to each speaker, is to do with ensuring the output stage of the power-amp is working into an optimal load.

This load is partly made up by the resistive, capacitive and inductive characteristics of the cables as well as those of the speakers. These factors are all affected by length so its not just the resistance that matters.

Keeping within the recommended limits should ensure optimal loading, minimise losses and protect the amplifier from 'possible' damage.

David S

Posted on: 12 January 2002 by Peter C

Minimum recommended Lenghth = 3.5m

Ideal Length = 5.5m, so 5m or 6m would be ideal

Posted on: 12 January 2002 by stephenjohn

As my speakers are 2m apart and my system is in the middle I have cable snaking round the room. Does anyone have an alternative?

Steve

Posted on: 13 January 2002 by bam

SJ, why don't you just coil them?

Posted on: 13 January 2002 by Paul Ranson

Don't put the system in the middle?

Or, heretically, change your power amp to one designed to work with short cables.

One option is to run the cables up and down the walls, this is actually discreet if you have curtains to hide them behind.

Paul

[This message was edited by Paul Ranson on SUNDAY 13 January 2002 at 13:32.]