I apologize if there is a tread on this already, but for some reason I can't use the search function. I just received my speakers, and updated to Parasound preamp and amp, using Kimber Timbre connects. I'm still using my old Pioneer Elite receiver for home theater because the Parasound preamp has a cool bypass switch allowing me to use just it for music listening, and also use it for surround sound.

Embarrassed to admit it, but I'm using some pretty cheap speaker cable. I need some help with this. There is so much on the internet about speaker cables, and such a wide variance in price. Can you guys give me some suggestions in the $200-$400 range for a set of 8 foot cables?

Thanks!

Steve

Well I might as well jump in and say that from my point of view, I would invest in 8 feet of Axiom's cable (http://www.axiomaudio.com/bulk-cable) at $US0.99/ft. It's what I use on my M80's. If afterwards you think you're missing something, you're not out much. And if, like me, you think speaker wires (and power cables) are way over-hyped,you'll have a good start on something more significant to add to your system.

For $400, I can cut you some magic pixie dust infused cables

http://www.monoprice.com/category?c_id=102&cp_id=10239

Don't spend any MORE than Axiom's cables. Even those I consider to be pretty darn overpriced for speaker cables (sorry, guys). Use a nice 12 ga cable and be done with it.

for am 8' run you could use 14 or 16ga and not tell the difference.

Truth

I'm using the "Access" line 12ga for my front 3, and the 14ga for surrounds and Atmos speakers. Great product for a ridiculously low price. Plus it is certified to be put "in wall," whatever that is good for. LOL

8 foot runs are pretty short and you would be hard pressed to find any *real* reason to spend big bucks on speaker wires.

Check this out...


Or this (not my image, so sorry it is low quality):


You really don't NEED big and expensive wires unless you want to throw away money, and if so see the post a few above this with pixie dust.

Many of the expensive wires are snake oil, some have pseudo-science claims and in fact change the signal on the wire affecting a change in sound. If all you want is the pure signal as it was intended, keep using your cheap wire or any of the ones mentioned above. I have the Axiom wire and it is very soft and supple. I also have some of the Monoprice 12 gauge wire, it too is a very nice wire but much stiffer due to the thicker strands. Axiom's wire uses a very thin multi-strand wire which is why it is so easy to work with.

I use shoe laces and string.

Thanks for your help everyone! I'm going with laces and strings...

Seriously, I think I'll get some wire fro Axiom.

Steve

The pre-built Axiom wire with end connectors (your choice while ordering), are what I use wherever the wire will be exposed to casual viewing. I do not subscribe to the "wire makes things sound better" philosophy, but got them because they look pretty cool....The Axiom bulk 12g wire is what I use for generic speaker hooks up where it isn't visible.