At Driven Adventure Materials, we know that a great adventure is often accompanied by a great soundtrack. That's why when it comes to car audio installations, we prioritize not just the head unit and speakers, but the unsung heroes of sound: the wiring. Proper wiring is fundamental to achieving optimal sound quality, system longevity, and, most importantly, safety in your vehicle.

Understanding Car Audio Wiring and Our Choice

For our audio installs, particularly for the crucial 6x9" speakers at the back of the van which typically involve the longest wire runs, we standardize on 14 AWG 2 OFC (Oxygen-Free Copper) wire with a distinctive blue and white cover. This specific choice allows for high-quality audio and helps us visually distinguish our audio wiring from the vehicle's other electrical systems, simplifying the installation process and future troubleshooting.

Why 14 AWG OFC Wire?

Our decision to use 14 AWG (American Wire Gauge) OFC wire is based on several factors that align with best practices for car audio, especially for longer runs:

• Optimal Wire Gauge for Long Runs: For speaker wire, the gauge (thickness) is critical. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire, and the less resistance it has. This is vital for long distances, as excessive resistance can lead to power loss and a diminished audio signal. As noted by SoundCertified.com, for very long lengths (50-100ft), going up to 14 gauge is recommended to prevent power loss due to resistance. While our runs might not always reach 100 feet, standardizing on 14 AWG ensures consistent high quality even for the longest distances to your rear speakers.
  For more detailed information on choosing speaker wire size, including charts and recommendations based on amplifier power, speaker impedance, and cable length, you can refer to this comprehensive guide: What Size Speaker Wire Guide?
• Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) for Superior Conductivity: We prioritize OFC wire for its superior conductivity and reduced resistance compared to Copper-Clad Aluminum (CCA). While some sources suggest that oxygen-free wire might not offer noticeable improvements in sound or power for typical applications, at Driven Adventure Materials, our commitment to achieving the highest quality audio experience leads us to choose OFC. This ensures maximum power delivery and a cleaner audio signal, contributing to the "high quality audio" our customers expect. OFC also offers better corrosion resistance over time, which is beneficial in a vehicle environment.
• Standardization for Simplicity: Keeping our wiring standard to 14 AWG OFC simplifies our installation process. Having a consistent wire type and gauge for specific applications streamlines inventory, reduces potential errors, and enhances the efficiency of our professional installations. The distinctive blue and white cover further aids in quick identification and a cleaner, more organized wiring setup.

Factors We Consider When Choosing Wiring (Beyond Gauge & Material)

Beyond gauge and conductor material, we also emphasize:

• Insulation and Durability: The quality of the wire's insulation is essential for protecting it from abrasion, heat, and moisture, ensuring longevity and safety within the vehicle's challenging environment.
• Flexibility: Wires need to be flexible enough to be routed cleanly and safely through various tight spaces within a van without compromising their integrity.

Why Driven Adventure Materials Chooses Quality

At Driven Adventure Materials, our commitment to quality wiring ensures:

• Peak Performance: Your audio components receive consistent, clean power, allowing them to perform at their best and deliver rich, clear sound.
• System Longevity: High-quality wiring reduces strain on components, preventing overheating and premature failure.
• Enhanced Safety: Properly sized and constructed wires minimize the risk of electrical fires and damage to your vehicle's electrical system.
• Minimal Noise: Effective shielding and superior materials in signal cables (such as RCA interconnects, which would also be chosen with care, though not specified here) keep unwanted electrical noise out of your audio, ensuring a pure listening experience.

We believe that investing in high-quality wiring is just as important as choosing the right amplifier or speakers. It’s a crucial step in building a car audio system that delivers an exceptional listening experience for all your adventures.