The Technology:
Neutrik Speakon cables are made in 8, 4 and 2 pole configurations that mate with the connectors but will not work if reversed, and some of the available Speakon cables of today are capable of biamping even triamping. They are constructed of high quality and durable plastics and metals. All of the cables carry the highest level of electrical shielding which prevents shock from touching a cable that is connected to an ungrounded and a grounded connection. Speakon cables are widely available with both XLR and TRS connectors, and in the past two years the manufacturer has even released an STX version that has male and female in-line connectors.

Where you can buy them:
You can find Speakon cables at nearly any musician supplies or audio supplies superstore, and they are most commonly used in a studio setting. Some of the stores that currently carry ample supplies of them online are: Zzounds, MusiciansFriend, GuitarCenter, and elsewhere.

Why they cost so much:
Speakon cables cost so much for two reasons. One, they are only truly compatible with audio gear that has Speakon connections, meaning most people will have to run out and buy new gear. And two, the technology is rather new and the cables are handmade from the highest quality materials. This assures a high level of clarity in the signal but translates into these cables costing about two, and even three times the price per foot as the leading audio cables that are void of the Speakon technology.

See the Difference When you use Speakon cables as Opposed to Standard ¼” Cables
This short, yet extremely effective video demonstration, that we found on Youtube.com, offers an inside look at the main reason why so many bands and clubs, and pro stages are racing to convert their now obsolete quarter-inch cables to the new industry standard, the nearly unbreakable Neutrik Speakon cables, which are quickly becoming more commonplace.

Identifying your needs
You want to make sure that you purchase the right home audio system to begin with. The average living room is about 600 square feet and has several walls, not to mention furniture and artwork, and so on, that can disrupt the clarity of an audio signal. You want to make sure that you position your large floor standing speakers in a manner that allows the signal the least amount of interruption and most amount of distribution.

• Don’t place things on or in front of your floor standing speakers
• Avoid placing speakers near an end table or a coffee table that can disrupt the signal
• Angle the speakers inwards slightly to allow the signals to best reach your ideal sitting area
• If the room is awkward, try smaller, wireless speakers for a true 5.1 surround sound flare

Check out this website for more home audio wiring tips.

Too many cables? Go wireless!
If you find that cables are a hassle, or just get in the way of things, there are additional options. Go wireless! You can easily get your hands on affordable wireless surround sound home audio systems that will not require a single solitary inch of home audio wiring. Of course the drawback is that most wireless systems require batteries, which can become a nuisance should they run out of juice in the middle of watching the ‘Terminator.’

Wireless home audio systems like this one: http://www.avtechsolutions.com/s_av_senders.htm —are well priced.

Helpful home audio wiring how to videos

How to setup your own home theatre right the first time! This detailed video—courtesy of Expert Village—demonstrates how to setup your home theatre system right the first time.

Learn how to setup your home theatre subwoofer properly. This excellent ‘how to’ video—provided by Expert Village—demonstrates the most efficient and proper way to setup up your subwoofer for your home theatre.

Now that you have the cables run and wired, how do you hide them? No problem! This detailed video demonstrates the tricks of the trade; the ones that the pros use. Learn how to effectively hide your audio cables when installing your home theatre system.