I've decided to just scrap using the charts as there are too many variables(number of wire strands, using test tones as opposed to regular music, copper vs aluminum etc.).
"I've decided to just scrap using the charts as there are too many variables(number of wire strands, using test tones as opposed to regular music, copper vs aluminum etc.).
Those charts are really helpful - you're just making it too complicated.
Forget about copper vs. alum. I know aluminum wire exists, but you're not going to find anyone trying to sell it for car audio - if you do, go somewhere else.
Music/tones doesn't matter. Just go by your amps total rms power rating.
Number of strands is just a flexibility issue. AWG is AWG whether it's solid wire or a billio strands. Just make sure it's flexible enough that you can route it where you neet to route it.
All you really need to know is the rms power of your amps and the approximate length you need to run it.
Typically 4 ga will get you safely up near 1500 rms.
"Number of strands is just a flexibility issue. AWG is AWG whether it's solid wire or a billio strands."
Actually I believe that the number of strands help determine the current carry capability. Because electrons travel on the surface of wires and not in them so the more strands you have the more surface area there is. Usually wires with fewer strands are intended for higher voltage.
No measurable difference, lucas. Theoretically the solid wire would have less voltage drop because you can't have more cross-sectional area than solid, even if there are a million strands.
At a given length, and material the only variable for voltage drop is cross sectional area. It's really a pretty simple concept.
Strand count is not a moot issue, in some cases, like knukonceptz kolossus line, strand count is using the same sized-strands (it's like what? 36 awg?) as others rated the same - but even though it's 1/0 gauge, it actually has over 1,000 more strands than 'standard' 4 gauge wire. (I.E. standard 4 gauge wire has like what, 4100ish strands of 36awg? Whereas KnuKonceptz stuff has like 5025 of 36awg).
ok, it was late. Not over 1,000 more strands, but close to it. LoL. Just correcting myself before someone corrects me and calls me a dumba$$ for saying over 1000.