Setting up and enjoying good music doesn’t require being an audiophile. However, it is important to know the key differences between the two most widely used cables, i.e., Subwoofer cable vs RCA cable.
You can use any of these cables to connect your subwoofer to a sound system. Preferring the best among these can boost the performance of your home entertainment system. Ultimately you will have a more enjoyable experience than otherwise.
Subwoofer Cable Vs RCA Cable: What Do You Need To Know?
To see which cables you should choose for your subwoofer, here is a comprehensive guide on Subwoofer Cable vs RCA Cable that you must know.
So, here we go:
Quick Comparison Table:
| RCA Cable | Subwoofer Cable |
| This cable contains RCA connectors at both ends. | The subwoofer cable also contains RCA connectors. |
| RCA cable is commonly accessible and affordable. | This cable is expensive comparatively. |
| AC Hum is a major problem with RCA Cable. | A quality subwoofer cable doesn’t produce AC hum. |
| RCA cable doesn’t have additional shielding; therefore, using this has a tendency of interference and noise. | Subwoofer cables are properly shielded and insulated to avoid interference and noise. |
| Audio RCA cables transmit audio signals of all frequencies from the AV receiver to the speakers. | On the other hand, subwoofer cables are designed to carry low-frequency audio signals only from the AV receiver to the subwoofer. |
| RCA Cables are effective in carrying audio and video signals. | At the same time, the subwoofer cable can transmit audio signals only. |
What Is A Subwoofer Cable?
Most importantly, the Subwoofer cable is a more powerful and longer version of the RCA cable. Subwoofer cable has more shielding and thicker insulating material to ensure enhanced protection against noise and interference. Otherwise, the presence of noise and interference can degrade the audio quality of subwoofers.
Most importantly, these cables also have a heavier gauge wire that prevents power loss.
How Does Subwoofer Cable Work?
A subwoofer cable is a specifically designed cable to transmit low-frequency signals. It helps send these audio signals from an Amplifier or AV Receiver to a subwoofer. Both connectors of a subwoofer typically use an RCA Cable.
Subwoofers are used to produce bass, which is an audio signal with low frequency. The AV receiver contains a built-in cross-over circuit to differentiate low-frequency and regular audio signals. Main speakers utilize periodic signals over an RCA cable. On the other hand, the subwoofer gets low-frequency audio signals without any problem.
Generally, the frequency produced by the subwoofer ranges from 20Hz to 200Hz. An improperly shielded cable can interfere with the frequency of AC Mains. To avoid or minimize signal distortion, manufacturers have added an insulating shield to the subwoofer cable.
This practice has led to protecting low-frequency bass signals from noise and interference. Consequently, you will experience a clean bass.
- Subwoofer cables are specially designed wires to carry low-frequency audio signals.
- These cables have additional shielding and insulation to reduce noise and interference.
- Subwoofer cable is effective in reducing AC Hum.
- Subwoofer cable is more expensive than RCA.
What Is RCA Cable?
RCA is one of the most commonly used audio cables. Most home entertainment systems utilize RCA connectors for different purposes. The RCA cable has three connectors extended from one cable in the most common form. You can match these color-coded connectors to their corresponding jacks on a TV or subwoofer.
How Does RCA Cable Work?
Radio Corporation of America (RCA) produced these connectors to connect phonograms and radio receivers in the 1930s. The connector with a pin is an RCA plug, while the connector with a hole is its jack. RCA cable can carry an unbalanced mono signal, analog audio, or video.
GearIT RCA Cable
The properly braided and shielded cable is compatible with a variety of devices to give you the freedom to use it anywhere you like. It is long-lasting and durable that will surely last you years.
Red, yellow and white cables are familiar as composite video RCA cables. In these, white and red channels transmit right and left channel signals (audio), and blue transmits RGB video signals.
Most importantly, RCA cables can carry both digital and analog signals.
- RCA cables are inexpensive.
- These cables are easier to find in electronics stores and audio equipment shops.
- These are popular for transmitting both audio and video signals.
- RCA cables don’t have additional insulation or shielding.
Subwoofer Cable Vs RCA Cable: Which One Is Better?
Both RCA and Subwoofer cables can be used to connect a subwoofer or a home entertainment system. To enjoy riches and the fullest sound experience, prefer subwoofer cables. However, if you prefer affordability, you can go with RCA cable.
Related: TS vs. TRS cables
Subwoofer Cable vs. RCA Cable – FAQs
Q: Can A Subwoofer Work With An RCA Connection?
A: Most of the subwoofers can work with an RCA connection. However, choosing subwoofer cables can offer you an enhanced experience.
Q: Which Cable Can Provide Better Sound Quality?
A: Investing in a high-quality cable is always important for better performance. A subwoofer cable can offer better sound quality than otherwise.
Q: What Is The Main Problem With RCA Cables?
A: AC Hum is the major issue when you use RCA cables with a subwoofer.
Q: How Does The Subwoofer Cable Protect From Interference And Noise?
A: Subwoofer cables have additional insulation and shielding. The additional insulation effectively keeps subwoofer cables from unwanted interference and noise.
Also read a Comprehensive Guide: Master the Art of Subwoofer Testing
