Inputs, Outputs and Cables

Inputs: Most recent amps have XLR and 1/4" inputs. You can plug the outputs of mixers or other signal processing equipment in using these jacks. Keep in mind, that XLR and 1/4" jacks have different voltage levels. XLR inputs (known as mic level inputs), are much lower in voltage then 1/4" jacks (known as line level) inputs. Be sure to match the output level of your mixer to the input level of your amps.

A good general rule of thumb for beginners is to not use two different kinds of connectors when plugging into amps. For instance, don't use a cable or adaptor that goes from 1/4" to XLR or vice versa. This may be sending a high (line) level output to a low (mic) level input, and vice versa. This can cause problems in your audio system.

Outputs: Most recent amps have a combination of Speakon(tm), Banana, and/or 1/4" outputs. Speakons are plugs that twist-lock into their sockets. Banana (aka: MDP, binding post) are "stackable" plugs with two protruding posts. 1/4" plugs are the same size as regular 1/4" instrument/patch cables, but they use a higher gauge cable. Keep in mind that you can not use regular instrument/patch cables in replacement of 1/4" speaker cables - instrument/patch cables have a gauge that is too low to handle amplified audio signals.

Speakons are preferred if you want a locking plug with a lower risk of being knocked out. Bananas are used if you want more flexibility in wiring your systems. Banana inputs have the advantage of also accepting bare wires that can be screwed down to make a connection. 1/4" cables are the least preferred because they can short out and damage your amplifier if you accidentally touch it to metal.

When connecting a banana plug to your amp, remember this rule of thumb: The notch goes to negative. This means that the side of the banana plug with the raised notch should be plugged in on the negative, or black side of the banana output base. To be extra careful, be sure the black strand of speaker wire goes to the black banana output base. This will avert polarity and phase problems in your audio system.

When picking a speaker cable, you want to match the output connector you want to use on your amp to the input connector of your speaker. You also want a cable that is sufficiently long enough to meet your needs. Typical lengths are 25 ft., 50ft., or 100 ft. You also want a speaker cable that has a larger gauge. Typical gauges, from low to high, are 16, 14, 12, and 8. The lower the gauge, the fatter the cable. Most people use at least 14 gauge speaker cable. If you are running a higher powered system, with a longer cable run, you want a lower gauge.

Cost: The cost of speaker cables depends on the connectors, the length, and the gauge.

• Speakon connectors are more expensive then banana or 1/4".
• Longer cables are more expensive then shorter cables.
• Lower gauge cables (8,12) are more expensive then higher gauge cables (14,16)