BROWSE HOW TOs

How to Hide Audio System Wires

By eHow Electronics Editor

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Your new home theater may provide the best audio and video quality on the block, but it should be aesthetically pleasing, too. All of that wiring can make a room unattractive. Fortunately, there are a few ways to hide audio system wires.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Conduit for cord channeling
Flatwire
Stereo case

Step1

Set up cord channeling for your audio system wires. Cord channeling protects your wires by running them through a plastic tubing case. The cord channeling can then be routed around the sides of your room, away from furniture.

Step2

Shop for new audio system equipment that runs on a wireless system. These newer units have a higher price tag than wired stereos, but if you're upgrading your audio system, consider going wireless.

Step3

Use flatwire for your speaker cables. This wire is thin but wide, providing more concealment options than ordinary speaker wire. You can run flatwire under your carpet or adhere it to the wall and paint over it.

Step4

Run audio system wires through the walls of the room. This method is possible only if you're constructing a new home and know how you want to permanently set up your audio system. Use high-quality wires; replacing them could be very expensive once the walls are finished.

Step5

Purchase an audio case that lets you run wires through the back. Most stereo shelves have small holes in their back panels to run wires through. If your speakers are located near the main unit, you can almost completely hide audio system wires by using this kind of casing.

Tips & Warnings

Cord channeling is often available in different colors to help it blend in with the room.
Be sure you buy the right gauge flatwire for your audio system. Surround systems generally need heavier gauges than other speakers.
Some audiophiles believe that wireless systems don't yet match the sound quality of high-end wired systems.
Do not run a cord channel under your carpet. This tubing is not strong enough to withstand heavy weight and will create a bulge in the carpet.
Never run audio system wires over the same path as home electrical wiring. The two wires may interfere with each other's signal and may also create an electrical hazard.