How to Wire a Home Audio System

Wiring a home audio system is no simple matter. It is easier to plan the wiring for a home that has yet to be built. However, if the house is already in existence, there may be structural issues of which you may be unaware. Having an efficient wiring system can keep your home audio system in style for a long time.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Twisted speaker wire (16 gauge minimum recommended)

1. Verify that the house already has plumbing, electrical, AC wiring and HVAC systems installed before you start to wire for audio equipment.
2. Decide on a wiring configuration. You can choose to wire all the equipment together in the same room, or use the wiring to link equipment from one room to another.
3. Determine where the wires will be connected, whether it is directly to the speakers or to another source.
4. Prepare the speakers for proper wiring. Make sure they are adapted to the humidity of the environment and that they are covered in the back with a lightweight cloth.
5. Install wall-mount jacks that connect to the local source. It is best to use banana jacks or binding posts.
6. Run the speaker wires to the volume control, then to the switch (whether it is manual or automatic) and finally to the speakers.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider using wire that is meant for in-wall use, as it helps with greater noise tolerance. Noise is also greatly reduced when pairs of wire are twisted together.
• Consider wiring for equipment that you do not have yet but may anticipate needing in the future, such as an outdoor gate control, additional phone outlets or a security system.
• Be aware that a home audio system is only one of many different electrical systems in the house. Consider how wiring for your audio system can be accommodated by other systems, such as security or communications systems.
• For more information on the history of home wiring systems, as well as further comprehensive instructions, go to HomeTech Solutions (see Resources below).
• For the best wiring configuration, it is recommended to keep all home audio equipment in the same room. Otherwise, you compromise on wiring flexibility.
• The bass sound will be compromised if the polarity from speaker to amp is not maintained.
• If you are wiring a home audio system yourself, do not hesitate to get help. The routing and pulling of wires requires coordination that may be too difficult for many people to do by themselves.

Who Can Help:

• Find Home Audio Electrical Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.
• Find Electrical Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.