The maximum length of a subwoofer cable to produce sound without distortion ranges between 3 to 5 meters, but mostly it depends upon the type of wire you are using.
As RCA cables should be restricted to about 20-25 feet to prevent hum, whereas optical cables have a 7-meter limit. High-quality subwoofer cables with dual braid shielding that are newer and more advanced can reach distances of 15 meters or more.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) causes audible low hums in subwoofers, resulting in a poor sound system. So, the question that arises here is, How long can a subwoofer cable be so it can not undergo the effect of EMI?
Continue reading to learn how long a subwoofer cable can be.
How Long Can A Subwoofer Cable Be?
A subwoofer and receiver interlink cable is a more complicated concept than a simple speaker. In contrast to conventional columnar wires, we require a different design of the wire itself, in which a large number of inventions are applied.
Both the material used for the conductors and the length of the cable plays an important role in producing sound without hum.
Because the length of electric coaxial subwoofer cables makes absolutely no difference, they can be as long as needed.
RCA cables should be kept under 20-25 feet to avoid buzzing sound, whereas optical cables have a 7-meter limit.
Newer and more advanced high-quality subwoofer cables with dual braid shielding can reach distances of 15 meters or more.
While a coaxial cable longer than 20 feet can safely connect a subwoofer to your receiver, an RCA cable that long is vulnerable to electromagnetic interference (EMI), especially if it crosses household electrical wires.
The most delicate subwoofer cable is aimed for use with a receiver. It should have connectors at the endpoints and be visually appealing.
Why Is Determining The Required Length For Your Cable So Necessary?
Determining the length of subwoofer cable is necessary because the cable gradually fails under constant tension, the veins break in their weak spot, and eventually, the sound vanishes. At the same time, the outer braid can remain intact, making it difficult to find a problem.
A sagging cable picks up extraneous interference and noise, and rolled-up rings generally cause eddy currents and interference.
As a result, buying a high-quality device or microphone cable from the nearest professional musical equipment store is preferable rather than purchasing the most expensive instrument or microphone cable.
If I recall correctly, the voltage signal travels through the cable at about 80% of the speed of light in a vacuum, so the signal travels through the wire at about 240,000 km per second. That is why even sometimes, increasing the length of your subwoofer cable won’t affect the overall system.
Also Read: Pine Plywood For A Subwoofer Box (All You Need To Know)
Does The Length Of The Cable Affect The Sound Quality?
It’s not very often. But yet the shortest possible length is almost always preferable when it comes to cable length. I say “almost” because there are some exceptions, as we’ll see.
Cables are critical system components that protect the fragile voltages as they are transferred from place to place among the audio/video chain’s links.
There will be signal loss as the electrons make their way through the conductors and struggle to jump the boundaries imposed by the connections at each end.
No cable can do better than simply minimizing the amount of loss during that transmission. So, better lines, in my opinion, simply “do less harm” or, to put it another way, reduce the amount of signal lost.
So, how much longer should cables have? Is there such a thing as a “rule of thumb”?
The response is as brief as possible! I prefer to keep speaker cables under seven feet long, and 3 to 5 feet is the most popular and practical length.
One-meter cables are the norm in a system in which components are grouped tightly together, but three to five meters is not uncommon if the amplifiers are located further away.
At those lengths, can you hear the degradation? Yes, you could indeed, but it may be a reasonable trade-off to accommodate other factors.
I’ve listened to excellent sound from systems with only five to ten meters of cable between the amplifier and the preamp. Balanced cables typically provide better results over very long runs than single-ended cabling.
What Are Subwoofer Cables?
A lengthy analogue audio cable is known as a subwoofer cable. They attach the amplifier to the subwoofer and can transmit sound at up to 100 Hz. In comparison to RCA cables, they are more complex and impactful.
This is because they are manufactured with advanced, long-lasting components and are technologically advanced. It is well-shielded and impervious to low-frequency noise.
They have solid copper core bass conductors wrapped in a second wire network that helps maximize low-frequency signal transport, resulting in a more precise and dramatic sound.
The type, efficiency, and length of subwoofer cables all have an impact on the quality of sound produced by the subwoofers.
Both ends of a subwoofer cable have two RCA connectors. One goes into your subwoofer, while the other goes into your media player.
Subwoofer cables have two male RCA connections on each end that connect the speaker or other audio device to the subwoofer and the subwoofer to the amplification or other device.
To make an insulating mesh or field, subwoofer cables are manufactured with sturdy, firmer woven fiber. Because of its toughness and length, some people use coaxial as a subwoofer cable.
Split cables, mono cables, and regular cables are all options for subwoofer cables.
What Is The Function Of Subwoofer Cables?
Most subwoofer cables are of the 1-RCA variety. This means they have two male RCA connectors on opposing sides of the line and can be connected anywhere a standard RCA cable can be connected.
This makes it simple to use and easy to locate devices that can be used with it. On the other hand, a subwoofer cable is a line-level analog audio interconnect that transmits shallow frequency analog audio to connect at the same “line level” as your stereo.
The line-level is the strength of an audio signal that is used to transmit analog sound between audio components.
Types Of Subwoofer Cables
Subwoofer cables have improved in quality and affordability as a result of technological advancements.
Consumer-grade audio hardware with 14-inch jacks is becoming more popular. Despite the fact that many people still use RCA cables, there is a trend among consumers to purchase Subwoofer cables.
The following are the various types of subwoofer cables:
Split Cable
Split cables are intended for use with subwoofers that have a stereo input. It increases the volume of the system by 2 decibels by ensuring that all subwoofer inputs receive the same signal.
Regular Mono Subwoofer
When the subwoofer input is labelled Low-Frequency Effects or LFE, this cable is used. Let’s say mono subwoofers are connected using subwoofer Y adapters.
While there are other ways to secure a connection with a subwoofer, most people prefer to use the LFE connection.
Subwoofer Cable Lengths For All Cable Types
Your subwoofer’s location may necessitate the use of a single RCA subwoofer wire. LFE connectors are the most commonly used subwoofer connection. Both your AV transmitter and your subwoofer must be powered on for this to work.
Other stereo outputs have two outputs: a positive and a negative. Other subwoofer speakers have RCA connectors on both ends as well.
The lengths of all subwoofer-amplifier connections are standard. For motor installation, audiophiles prefer shorter wires.
If you intend to install multiple subwoofers on both sides of your vehicle, you’ll need to have a cable length that falls somewhere between long and short.
Depending on where your subwoofer is located, you may require a single long subwoofer cable with an RCA connector.
LFE connections are the most commonly used type of subwoofer connection. The line must be connected to your AV receiver and subwoofer.
Most connections are made with a single wire, but some have two stereo outputs: positive and negative. Other subwoofer speakers have two RCA connectors on each end as well.
All types of subwoofer-amplifier links have standard lengths. Audiophiles suggest shorter cables for motor installation. On the other hand, Longer lines must be flexible to avoid entanglements and breakage.
Best Cables For Subwoofer Speakers
We’ve compiled a list of the best subwoofer speaker cables for any installation or car audio setup.
Keep in mind that a good subwoofer and subwoofer connection is beneficial to sound production in your vehicle. Bass generates low frequencies and ensures that bass texture is accurately reproduced.
Here are a few excellent subwoofer cables
1. AmazonBasics RCA Audio Subwoofer cable-35 Feet
It comes with a 35-foot subwoofer audio cable that can be used to connect the subwoofer speaker to a stereo receiver, sound system, or other compatible audio device.
Corrosion-resistant gold-plated RCA connectors; split-tip center pins for optimal pressure and conductivity; hard, yet flexible PVC exterior provide Dependable Efficiency.
It gives your subwoofers the best QUALITY SOUND AND BASS. Subwoofer-generated low-frequency signals are expertly transmitted, resulting in exceptional sound quality and bass response.
It works with RCA ports, S/PDIF, digital, and composite video interfaces, among other things.
Pros
- The best option for casual use
- Most affordable subwoofer cable
- Colour-coded moulds
Cons
- Not a reliable option for long term
2. Mediabridge Ultra Series RCA Y-Adapter (12 Inches) – 1-Female to 2-Male for Digital Audio or Subwoofer
Long cables are frequently required when connecting a sizeable audio system to a potent subwoofer. The Mediabridge subwoofer cable is a popular choice because it has a long cable.
This cable connects any RCA-enabled device to a subwoofer or amplifier’s left and right audio ports.
To get a true surround sound experience, split your audio components. It has a rigid but flexible outer jacket that makes installation a breeze.
Gold contact and pro-grade connectors are used for a high conductivity connection.
1-Female to 2-Male RCA audio plugs are found on the Y-Adapter. Color-coded molds with a unique grip make cable handling a breeze.
Copper braided shielding, aluminum Mylar shielding, and gas injected foam dielectric are all included. For easy organization and storage, a reusable Velcro cable strap is included.
Pros
- It offers a secured connection
- Port quality is pretty good
- Flexible and soft cable jacket
Cons
- The cable is not braided
3. FosPower (10 Feet) Digital Audio Coaxial Cable for Subwoofer
FosPower, is another popular cable option. It creates not only a variety of cables but also a variety of other emergency supplies.
We have yet another long subwoofer cable in third place. The 10-foot FosPower Digital Audio Coaxial Cable features 24K gold plated connectors for maximum top-quality connectivity.
It’s a male RCA to RCA cable that can be used for both analog and digital connections. As a result, you can easily connect your subwoofer to your TV, Hi-Fi audio system, or home theatre using the cable.
The FosPower Digital Audio Coaxial Cable works with almost all audio ports, including rear access ports.
Connecting your devices is made as simple as possible with orange color-coded connectors on both ends.
Polyethylene Foam, an excellent dielectric insulator that minimizes signal loss to a greater extent, is used in these cables. FosPower will provide you with a lifetime guarantee on this digital coaxial cable.
Pros
- The length is pretty good
- Color-coded connectors
- The connector shield is high-quality
Cons
- Cable quality should have been better
Pros
- Length is pretty good
- Colour-coded connectors
- The connector shield is high-quality
Cons
- Cable quality should have been better
4. Atmoz Ultra Subwoofer Cable (10 Feet)
ATMOZ has provided us with one more mid-range cable. This cable has a longer length than most other options with an added accessory.
It’s a 10-foot cable with a pure copper conductor that’s oxygen-free for high-quality signal transmission. It also has gold connectors and a split-tip center pin for improved connectivity and the prevention of loose connections.
Corrosion-resistant gold-plated RCA connectors provide a tighter fit and conductivity, and split-tip center pins provide better contact stress and signal strength.
Isolation from other devices and cables is outstanding, thanks to the copper-clad steel center conductor, dielectric insulation, aluminum shielding, and braided copper shielding.
The Atmoz Ultra Subwoofer Cable’s Y-style connector will provide you with enhanced sound levels and will totally eradicate background noise.
Along with the cable, the package includes a female to male RCA splitter, which is a beautiful addition.
If you only want to connect the subwoofer with a single RCA cable, the splitter will prove to be very helpful.
Pros
- Copper center conductor
- Braided copper shielding
- Reduces noise and offers increased sound levels
Cons
- Cable quality is not as reliable as other options
5. Monoprice Onix Series Digital Coaxial Audio/Video RCA Subwoofer CL2 Rated Cable
Monoprice Onix offers a premium subwoofer cable with great design and versatility in terms of applications. Even though it is a premium choice, it is great if you are looking for a long cable.
It is made up of 97% pure oxygen-free copper conductor and is double shielded with copper braiding, along with that has a 22 pF per foot capacitance.
The Monoprice Onix Cable is a perfect option if you are picking up a cable for your studio. This cable is about 6 feet long and offers external as well as in-wall installations.
Thus, you will be able to connect your subwoofers to your system permanently without any visible cable. It is compatible with almost all surround sound systems.
The Monoprice Onix Cable transfers audio signals to the subwoofer jacks from a standard A/V receiver or amplifier.
As the signal capacity of the cable is good, you can easily connect even the most powerful subwoofers via the Monoprice Onix Subwoofer Cable without any signal loss. The cable also offers gold-plated connectors on both ends to ensure that.
Pros
- Suitable choice for studio applications
- The length is pretty good
- Connectors are good for long-term
Cons
- Cable quality should have been better
FAQs
Is a subwoofer cable required? Is there a special cable?
Subwoofer cables are audio cables that can significantly improve sound quality. They are used to attach any device that supports the coaxial (S/PDIF) audio interface. Subwoofer cables produce a deep, intense sound that is far superior to standard RCA sound.
Is the length of the subwoofer cable significant?
Not entirely. While a coaxial cable longer than 20 feet could be used to connect a subwoofer to your receiver without issue, an RCA cable that long is susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), especially if it crosses household electrical wires.
Is the thickness of the subwoofer cable necessary?
When selecting a subwoofer cable, consider the cable thickness, a different end color, wire diameter (AWG), and the metal used for wiring.
The best subwoofer cables will have copper wiring and a strong inverse relationship between the thickness of the wiring and the overall length of the line.
Does audio quality from my subwoofer depend upon the audio cable?
Basically, the performance level of your subwoofer is determined by both the subwoofer’s quality and the driver installed in it. However, it can only work with the signals it receives through the cable.
As a result, the cable plays a significant role in this case. If the cable is damaged or contorted, you will notice a disruption in the audio output, which will dramatically lower the effectiveness of your subwoofer.
What is the difference between coaxial and RCA cables?
Coaxial and RCA cables have a similar appearance. However, they serve very different purposes: RCA cables transmit analogue signals, whereas coaxial cables carry digital signals. RCA cables are thinner than coaxial cables, but they have a lower bandwidth capacity.
RCA cables are also more unstable than HDMI cables, and can be easily damaged by outside interference. As a result, you should use either coaxial or dual shielded RCA cables.
Conclusion
The maximum length of a subwoofer cable that can produce sound without hum is 3 to 5 meters, but this varies greatly depending on the type of wire used.
To avoid hum, RCA cables should be kept under 20-25 feet, whereas optical cables are limited to 7 meters. Newer and more advanced high-quality subwoofer cables with dual braid shielding can reach distances of 15 meters or more.
You can keep surrounding background interference to a minimal level by investing in a good subwoofer cable, allowing you to enjoy a high-quality output on your subwoofers.
Related Post: Are Expensive Subwoofer Cables Worth It?
