There’s one question that several enthusiasts often ask: “Can I use a stripped RCA cable instead of a subwoofer wire?”
Well, using an RCA cable as a subwoofer wire isn’t the most obvious choice, but it’s not unheard of either. Many curious users have tried stripping an RCA cable and using it as a subwoofer wire. Some even reported decent results. But was it worth it?
Come, let’s find out!
RCA Cable:
An RCA cable is a type of audio cable with three plugs on one end. Each plug is color-coded, usually red, white, and yellow. Red and white ends are used for audio, and the yellow one is meant for video.
Subwoofer Wire:
A Subwoofer wire is also an audio cable, but with thicker insulation and a heavier gauge. It is built differently to reduce signal interference, generate better audio quality, and prevent power loss during signal transmission.
Subwoofer wires are undoubtedly a robust version of RCA cables.
What is a Stripped RCA Cable?
A stripped RCA cable is just a regular RCA cable with the plugs cut off, exposing the wires inside. People do this when they want to connect the cable directly to a speaker or subwoofer without using the standard ports. It’s a quick fix, and can work in some cases, but it isn’t always reliable for powerful audio setups.
Is It Safe to Use a Stripped RCA Cable as a Subwoofer Wire?
While many people use a stripped RCA cable as a subwoofer wire, it isn’t very safe. You can strip and modify your RCA cable as a subwoofer wire, but regular usage can cause problems.
RCA cables are thin and meant for low-level signal transmission between source devices. They are not designed to carry the signal and power that subwoofers require, at least from an amplifier. Replacing stripped RCA cable with subwoofer wire will strain your amplifier and distort the audio. Continuous or long-term usage can even damage the equipment or cause a fire.
RCA cables aren’t powerful enough or lack the shielding required to handle the high-demand connection between an amplifier and a subwoofer. They can’t deliver enough power. Even if the connection works temporarily, the output may be weak, distorted, or noisy. Subwoofers need strong, clean signals to produce deep bass and proper thump.
How to Use a Stripped RCA Cable for a Subwoofer (If You Must)?
Using a stripped RCA cable for a subwoofer involves stripping off the ends and connecting the inner wires to the speaker terminal directly. This act demands some basic wiring know-how. The task may turn tricky without being familiar with which wire is the signal and which is the ground. It takes a bit of guesswork and patience.
Just be aware, it’s not built for that job. The cable can easily wear out, cause signal issues, or even harm your equipment. Amplifiers release heavy signal and power, which must slow down before reaching a subwoofer, woofer, speaker, or similar audio devices. Using a stripped RCB cable instead of a subwoofer wire can interrupt the signal flow, strain the amp, and eventually ruin your devices.
What Kind of Wire Should You Use for a Subwoofer?
Amplifiers produce high levels of power. To make sure it reaches your subwoofer without interference or signal loss. Use:
For the subwoofer, 16-, 14-, or 12-gauge wires work efficiently.
Whereas for speakers, 18-, 16-, or 14-gauge wires work efficiently.
Choose wires depending on how much power your subwoofer or speaker needs.
*The higher the power, the thicker the wire should be.
RCA cables are undoubtedly cheap and convenient, but they do not perform the job like a Subwoofer wire. The power and performance of both will undoubtedly differ.
Simultaneously, a Subwoofer wire has a standard RCA connector, which is way thicker and more powerful than a regular RCA cable. Since subwoofer wires have a greater shield, they will undoubtedly provide more clarity and resolution.
Several users connect the classic Red and White RCA cables with color coordination within an Amplifier. The yellow cable is for composite video and has no use in audio functioning, so it can be left aside.
Conclusion
Subwoofer wires carry higher current and have the shielding needed to block out interference. They protect your audio gear and make sure the signal stays clean. A stripped RCA cable lacks both the strength and insulation to handle that job properly. It might connect, but it won’t perform.
For the best results and peace of mind, it’s better to use cables made for subwoofers. They hold up better, sound better, and keep everything running the way it should.