Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

General discussion

home theatre wiring

Dec 2, 2004 11:28PM PST

Recently purchased a Sony surround system. In order to make the exposed wiring to the speakers look "nicer" I have grouped all the wires running out from the receiver into one "bunch" for a considerable distance. Does the grouping of wires cause distortion in signal to the speakers? I am using monster cables for all speakers except subwoofer whose terminals are inside the box.

Discussion is locked

- Collapse -
Re: home theatre wiring
Dec 3, 2004 12:32AM PST

Yes. But unless you can hear it, does it matter?

Bob

- Collapse -
Crosstalk possible if not coax wire
Jan 21, 2005 3:41AM PST

Crosstalk from one wire to another is possible with parallel wires of most speaker wire. The way to prevent this is that the grounded wire surrounds the signal wire, which is why coaxial cable exists. Another solution is to use 'twisted pair' rather than flat parralel speaker cable.

- Collapse -
Its fine.
Jan 21, 2005 5:09AM PST

While technically, distortion is possible, its very unlikely you could ever notice this. I have my front 3 speakers "bundled" the same as yours. They are also bundled with my component video cables that supply picture to my TV - over a distance of 90 feet! I notice nothing in picture, nor sound.