Here’s the way to install banana plugs with speaker wire.
The constant setup and teardown of our A/V systems means we’re always dealing with speaker wire. Stripping and connecting raw wire is time-consuming and can lead to unreliable connections. Loose or frayed wires can negatively impact sound quality.
With banana plugs, you can ensure this never happens. Simply plug them into compatible terminals on your speakers or receiver/amplifier, similar to RCA plugs. They’re cheap, and look clean, provide a secure connection, and make connecting and disconnecting components a breeze.
If you find installing banana plugs annoying, you can just buy speaker wires with banana plugs.
Table of Contents
Watch A Video To Know Install Banana Plugs With Speaker Wire
If you find it easier to follow along visually, you can watch this video.
What do you need?
The tools needed to install the banana plugs with speaker wire is very simple.
- A wire stripper, cutter or utility knife.
- Suitable speaker wire (If you don’t know how to choose the right speaker wire for you, you can read the Speaker Wires Guide – Gauge, Length, and Type article)
- A small screwdriver (generally, stores selling banana plugs are equipped with this tool)
- A pack of banana plugs (suitable cable)
Prepare A Pack of Banana Plugs
You can find a wide variety of banana plugs with different mounts and styles at your local electronics store or on Amazon, from right-angle connectors to dual-banana connectors. Choose the style that best suits your setup. Installation is generally the same for all types. For this demonstration, we’ll be using a solderless banana plug, which is one of the most common and easiest to install.
Prepare Speaker Wire
1. Cut the speaker wire
First, use the string to measure the location of each speaker on your sound system. Then, add 1-2 feet (about 30-60 cm) to that length. Cut the speaker wire to that length.
2. Separate the wires
Different types of speaker wire (such as the ones we used) are connected together. Use a utility knife to separate the two wires. For a better installation, it is best to have 1-2 inches between the wires.
3. Wire stripping
Place the wire stripper approximately 1/2 inch from the end of the wire and use force to remove the outer covering from the wire, taking care not to damage the wire core inside.
4. Exposing Bare Wire
Repeat the process for both wires. Use the wire stripper to cut the cable jacket approximately 1/2 inch from the end of the cable. Then twist the bare wires together.
Connect Wires To Banana Plug
- Unscrew the ABS shell
- Use a hexagonal screwdriver to unscrew the screws on both sides of the banana plug (note: only unscrew 1/2, otherwise the screws will fall off easily), and insert the wire into the banana plug.
- Tighten the screws with a hexagonal screwdriver
- Tighten the banana plug with ABS shell.
Connect Banana Plugs To Amplifiers And Speakers
Installing banana plugs is a breeze. Simply insert them into the center hole of your speaker terminals. For speakers with plastic covers, remove them and store them safely. Connecting and disconnecting your components will be quick and easy, and the connection will be more secure than bare wires. However, remember that banana plugs won’t work with spring clips.
