RCA Cable Length

TROOPER

Hey Guys,

Just finalizing my install details, and wondering how long the cables need to be.

Mainly without going crazy, how long does the RCA cable need to be from the head unit to the amp, assuming the amp is behind or under the seats.

And I only need x2 RCA cables right?
One (stereo) RCA cable for doors (2ch), and one RCA cable for the sub input.
I'm guessing 2 x 6foot cables is enough.

Do I need to replace the stock wiring if replacing the door speakers and tweeters, with components speakers?
What gauge wire for front speakers/tweeters?
What gauge wire for subwoofer?

Again if so, how much speaker wire will I need for the speakers/tweeters?
I'm guessing 30foot max, for all speaker wiring.

Cheers

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Darren
"Guv Motors Passion Wagon"

Matt

Audiophiles will tell you that you should upgrade the wiring for the stock speakers, but it's a.) a P.I.T.A. and b.) not very noticeable.

IMO, the stock wiring is perfectly fine unless you're putting in some 3000 watt system.

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cmmonte92

TROOPER,


More than likely, if your head unit has amp pre-outs, they are by the pair (meaning by 2s). So, your sub pre-out will be left /right, as well. Don't worry, though... You Mono amp will do as advertised and make the signal to your sub, mono.

Also, no more than 10ft for RCA's should be needed. Don't forget..., run your RCA's separate from your amp power wires (eg: RCA's along the arm-rest/center-console and the amp power along the doors). If they must cross, do it at 90 degree angles to prevent interference (induced alternator whine).

If you're planning on running components, then higher-rated speaker wire is recommended; 18-16 gauge, depending on how much wattage you'll be pushing through them (the more wattage, the thicker gauge). However, that's only if you're really going to be pushing more than 50W/Ch or just want some peace-of-mind. Trying to run new speaker wires through the door's molex connector is a PITA, but can be done (with some patience) in about an hour or so, per door. Keep in mind, that you want the same length wire for each speaker from the amp. Meaning, if it takes 10ft of wire for your right door speaker, then try to impedance match and use 10ft for your left door speaker. Also, always try to give your self some "fudge" factor for any mistakes in the length of wire needed (eg: decide to change amp location, cut one wire too short, etc.).

12 gauge wire for your sub, should be good (assuming you're sticking with your above set-up)

Good luck!

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TROOPER

Thanks Monte

I think I'll stick with the stock door wire then

Yeah I was thinking 6ft might be a little short, and saw another install on here that said 12ft.

I noticed they used a 6ch RCA, which I was curious about, as I wont be running rear speakers.
Just the doors/tweeters & the sub, so I guess I only need 4ch (or 2x stereo RCA's)
(yes, the Kenwood DNX6160 does have sub-preouts)

Any recommendations on the sub wire, I imagine that should be closer to 12 or 10 gauge right?

__________________
Darren
"Guv Motors Passion Wagon"

bigaudiofanat

12 or 10 will be fine you could even use 14 if its lower than 150 watts if you are feeling cheap. Any manufacture of rcas should be fine I have used them all and they all work. No reason to spend 100 dollars on rca cables. The zero noise are a joke and a gimmick just get some good ones from street wires or stinger or even walmart if you really wanted to.

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