A factor that is commonly overlooked in choosing any type of wiring kit is the material that the wire is made from. Copper and aluminum are the most commonly used wire materials and there is a significant difference in quality, power handling and signal transfer between these materials. The least costly between these 2 options is Copper-Clad Aluminum (CCA) wire. CCA wire utilizes an aluminum core that is clad or dipped in copper. It is a suitable choice for lower powered systems or restricted budget applications, although the power transfer is not on the same level as the far superior Oxygen Free Copper (100% OFC) wiring. OFC wiring is refined to remove virtually all oxygen and other corrosive elements.
Oxygen Free Copper wiring provides a superior electrical conductor to aluminum because it does not expand or contract with heat and can carry a higher current load. The improved efficiency of OFC wiring will also reduce the strain on your vehicle tremendously and allows your sound system to run at its maximum efficiency. While OFC wiring is more costly upfront, it provides much improved corrosion resistanceand greatly reduces your long term maintenance costs. CCA wiring often times will degrade to the point that it needs replacing much sooner than OFC wiring.
OFC Advantages
- Increased Conductivity to Carry More Current to Your Amplifier
- Reduced the Strain on Your Vehicle’s Electrical System
- Increased Corrosion Resistance
- Decreased Maintenance Costs
- Improved Heat Absorption
