Dedicated Circuit wire alternatives?


Hey. I've been through the archives and found that the general concensus is that Belden 83803 is the wire of choice for dedicated circuits. At $2 a foot it's pretty pricey considering I would need 100 feet for just my amplifier line.

1) Does the analog/digital line need to be 12 gauge or can I use 14 gauge 83753?

2) Are there any cheaper alternatives (other brands maybe) that offer the same noise rejection traits for less momey? Romex doesn't seem to work as my equipment is the only thing plugged in to it's current line and I can hear the effects of the refridgerator turning on.

Thanks!

leo.
leoturetsky

Showing 1 response by sean

Tinned conductors typically tend to lend a very "edgy" sound to the upper midrange, i.e. this is what is used in many "ribbon" cables in SS gear. Replacing the "ribbon cables" in many SS components with better quality copper wire gets rid of the "SS glare" that so many folks complain about.

With that in mind and since so many people appear to hear the effect of power cords on their systems, i would think that the tinned copper conductors of the aforementioned Belden would be a BAD thing. I am STRICTLY guessing here though as i have no first hand experience with it.

I agree with Albert and Bob and suggest using good basic wiring, running a dedicated ground and having it all installed in a shielded carrier ( conduit, aluminum flex tubing, etc... ). As mentioned, pay attention to which phase or leg of the breaker / fuse box that you're tieing into. Run seperate lines for the amp, analogue components, digital components, etc... The heavier the wire, the better. This is especially true for the amplification circuit with the others being less critical due to less current draw. Sean
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