Speaker Cable Length vs RCA Cable Length - How to Optimize

[Connor1a]

A question concerning cables.

I know there are several threads on the subject, but I haven’t seen one focused on my question.

I’m going to be using a WiiM Ultra as a preamp to connect to two NCx500 monoblock amps which then connect to two Warfedale Linton Heritage speakers. The total cabling distance from the WiiM to the speakers is about 8 feet. Using cables I have, I can bridge that distance by either running a 3 foot RCA cable between the WiiM and the NCx500s and then a 12 foot, 14 gauge speaker cable between each amp and the speakers OR I can run a 12 foot RCA cable between the WiiM and the amps and then a 3 foot 10 gauge speaker cable between the amps and the speakers. In other words, I can have either a short RCA cable and a long speaker cable or a long RCA cable and a short speaker cable. Either way, the electrons need to flow the same distance (or thereabouts).

Given those scenarios, which of the two is “more” optimal than the other? Why? Does it really make a difference?

Edit: Were I to buy new cables, what gauge would you recommend for each? I believe these are fairly short runs. If it’s important, the Lintons’ nominal impedence is 6 Ω / minimum is 3.5 Ω. The output impedance on the amp is listed as f<20kHz 2 mΩ, f<1kHz 250 µΩ.

Thanks so much for your thinking!

 

[Kal Rubinson]

Given those scenarios, which of the two is “more” optimal than the other? Why? Does it really make a difference?

Given those distances (and the use of decent suitable cables), neither is "more" optimal. If your distances were 2-3x greater or more, I'd recommend minimizing the speaker cable length at the expense of longer interconnects (shielded, twisted pairs). In your situation, you can choose on the basis of aesthetics and/or convenience.

 

[staticV3]

I would not expect a meaningful difference between the two configs.

In theory, the best option should be long RCA cable and short speaker cable, to optimize damping factor into the speakers.

The WiiM has very low Line output impedance of 11Ω, meaning that it can handle both low input impedance Amps and long RCA cable lengths.

In practice, don't worry about it and choose whichever is more convenient

 

[Blumlein 88]

I agree with Kal. Whatever is easiest or most visually appealing.

 

[Connor1a]

Given those distances (and the use of decent suitable cables), neither is "more" optimal. If your distances were 2-3x greater or more, I'd recommend minimizing the speaker cable length at the expense of longer interconnects (shielded, twisted pairs). In your situation, you can choose on the basis of aesthetics and/or convenience.

A short RCA cable and longer speaker cable is more convenient. It’s easier to stack the amps in the cabinet I use for the other AV equipment like the WiiM and Panamax power management. There’s no worry over the gauge of the longer speaker wire? I know a lower gauge may be preferred, but I happen to have the 14 gauge ready to hand. I don’t feel driven to buy new 10 gauge cables, but I also don't want to cheap out on a rig I’d like to use for years to come. A set of Blue Jean 12 foot, 10 gauge cables are “only” 65$ vs the cost of power management, amps & speakers… Maybe I’ll put them on my Xmas list for Santa. Thanks much.

 

[kyuu]

At 12 feet, 14-gauge should be more than adequate. However if you want to gift yourself some nice cables (that don't claim magical powers and aren't absurdly priced) for Xmas, nothing at all wrong with that.

 

[-Matt-]

Speaker Cable Length vs RCA Cable Length - How to Optimize

Active speakers

 

[Kal Rubinson]

Active speakers

That's at one extreme.

 

[Speedskater]

Long and very long (say 300 feet/100 meters) XLR interconnect systems are great!
But it's not just the cable, it's the balanced output stage >> balanced cable >> balanced input stage
* * * * * * * * * *
Long RCA interconnects (say 30 feet/10 meters) can be problematic if the units are powered by different AC circuits)