Choosing Cables - Matrix Elements GT800fX User Manual

CABLE CHOICE & NEUTRIK® SPEAKON CONNECTORS
Whilst the Matrix GT series amps come with Neutrik® combi inputs and outputs for
maximum flexibility it is important to use good quality cables and connectors. We
recommend using Neutrik® branded connectors wherever possible. We've come
across certain low cost 1/4" jacks not connecting properly as well as XLRs not
"locking" which can cause loss or degradation of signal. Whilst many guitarists are
used to using traditional 1/4" jack to jack speaker cables we recommend trying out
Speakon connectors as they offer certain advantages over 1/4" jacks
•
No possible confusion with low-current microphone or instrument cables.
•
They lock into their sockets with a twisting motion, making them significantly
less prone to disconnection than push in jack plugs.
•
They are shielded from human touch, preventing electrical shock from a high-
powered amplifier (especially important given the high wattage of our amps).
•
The contacts do not short out during connection or disconnection. This can be a
benefit when working with sound equipment that is in operation.
•
The chassis receptacles are airtight, so do not provide an air leak path from
speaker enclosures. (Important in high SPL FRFR cabinets)
•
They are usually solderless connections making field maintenance and
construction much easier.
Whilst we appreciate that not everyone will convert their traditional cabs over to
Speakon connectors, you can still use Speakon to 1/4" cables to connect to the GT
series and at least get some benefit!
You can use either NL2FC or NL4FC Speakon connectors with the GT series but only
pins +1 and -1 are used if you use the 4 pole connector type!
If you decide to make your own speaker cables we recommend a twin core cable with
a copper core of at least 2.5mm
gauge cable may provide improved performance.
An approximate guide of cable sizing in relation to that of a pencil is shown
below, also note on the right the thin 'bell wire' / budget domestic speaker cable...
never use cable of this gauge to connect to power amplifiers, this can present a fire
risk and will result in poor performance.
/ 12 awg. For cables longer than 6m/20ft a heavier
2
15