Copper Vs. Tinned Speaker Wire
By Rachel Lucio
There are small differences between copper speaker wire and tinned speaker wire, none of which ultimately affect the quality of audio produced. Environment and location are pivotal when determining which type of wire to use.
Copper Wire
Copper is an ideal material for speaker wire due to its conductive nature. Plain copper speaker wire is composed of the copper wire covered by a plastic casing. Though copper wire is some of the least expensive speaker wire, it produces a quality result. One drawback to copper speaker wire is that it tends to corrode and may eventually break at the corrosion point.
Tinned Wire
Tinned speaker wire is wire that has had solder applied to it to prevent corrosion. Tinning has no impact on audio quality. Tinned speaker wire is used in marine applications due to its resistance to corrosion.
Audio Quality
Copper and tinned speaker wires produce essentially the same level of audio quality. What is more important than the type or material used, is the stereo wire gauge. The longer the stretch of wire, the lower the gauge or thicker the wire should be. If speakers will not be placed in close proximity to the receiver, a low gauge wire should be employed.
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Writer Bio
Rachel Lucio is a freelance writer/blogger in Austin, Texas. She has lived in the Austin area for more than 30 years and has been published in several online and print publications, specializing in health and beauty content. Besides her passion for writing, she is an avid reader with interests that range from true crime to gourmet cooking.