Stranded vs singal core conductors and skin effect


Yea, Yea, I did a search. I did find similar topics, but I still don't know which solution is preferable. Many mega-buck cables utilize solid core. Is solid core a better solution (conductor, etc.)? Isn't it the geometry (twisting, braiding, etc.) that addresses the skin effect issues? Are there other scientific reasons for utilizing stranded wire vs singal core? I am really considering making some DIY speaker cables. If for no other reason, than just for kicks - sounds kind of fun. I have read up on so many different theories. I realize that inductance and resistance are extremely important factors, as well as capitance, and for whatever reason, it must be a challange to design a cable with extreamly low measurments in all three categories?? I don't really fully understand why. HOLD ON - I don't want a complete lesson here. I'm just seeking some input from the engineering-minded or the knowledgeable DIY community as to which type of wire offers the best conductivity (and other factors??) for designing a DIY speaker cable. Additionally, which geometry is the preferred method?
2chnlben

Showing 2 responses by 2chnlben

Shadorne:
Thank you. This is exactly the type of input/advise I was seeking. It's so much more enjoyable, and much less of a hassle, to acquire information this way rather than having to sort through all the clutter via a web search. I realize now that the geometry of a cable design deals with the issues of inductance, and size/diameter is related to skin effect and resistance. The more I read up on the matter, the more I think I'll just look for a good assembled cable. It's not as if I have allot of time on my hands, although, it sounds intriguing. I've been reading about some DIY recipes that are "said" to better some really heavy hitters. As an audio enthusiast with an engineering background, have you ever experimented with DIY cabling??
Thanks for the "sound" advice. You know, I think I've simply been putting off the DIY project that really needs to be addressed in my system - room treatments. I've got the proverbial itch going as of late and I have been playing around with tweaks, but ignoring the acoustic treatments. Like so many, I want to maintain a nice "livable" area and at the same time, a good sounding area, without have one infringe upon the other. Besides, I’m having a darned hard time finding Owens Corning 700 series products?? Years ago, when I built a dedicated sound room for my first wife (it was for me at the time, but she ended up with it….because it was IN the HOUSE!) I was able to purchase it locally. Can’t find a local supplier now?? Boy, how I digress…this is supposed to be about cables. I think I’m past that now. Thanks!