The white AudioQuest SLiP-DB 16/2 cable makes installing in-wall speakers simple and professional. Specially designed for routing through walls and technical conduits, this 2 × 1.31 mm² speaker cable combines AudioQuest’s exclusive Long-Grain Copper (LGC) technology with an innovative EasySLiP Minimalist jacket. Certified CL3 and FT4 according to current safety standards, it is the go-to choice for integrators and audiophiles seeking a discreet installation without compromising sound quality.
Advanced Technical Construction and Exceptional Materials
At the heart of the SLiP-DB 16/2 are semi-solid concentric conductors using Long-Grain Copper (LGC), a proprietary AudioQuest technology that stands out from conventional OFHC (Oxygen-Free High-Conductivity) copper. This technical approach offers advantages on several levels.
LGC copper grains have an elongated structure that significantly reduces the number of junctions between metal crystals. This feature decreases the electrical micro-discontinuities responsible for audible distortion, especially in high frequencies. The result is a smoother, more natural sound reproduction, with clarity maintained even over long distances.
The semi-solid concentric configuration is another remarkable innovation. Unlike traditional stranded cables where each conductor changes position along the bundle—creating variable electromagnetic interactions—the strands in the SLiP-DB 16/2 maintain a fixed spatial relationship. This geometric stability eliminates a major source of dynamic distortion, particularly noticeable during complex musical passages.
The low-inductance spiral geometry completes this technical approach. This configuration minimizes the inductance effect, which tends to attenuate high frequencies and create a sense of sonic “blur” as cable length increases. The SLiP-DB 16/2 thus maintains its precision even over significant distances, a crucial advantage for large residential installations.
EasySLiP Minimalist Innovation for Professional Installation
The outer jacket of the SLiP-DB 16/2 embodies a pragmatic approach to installation. AudioQuest’s EasySLiP Minimalist technology drastically reduces the cable’s coefficient of friction, allowing it to be pushed directly through conduits without the need for a traditional pull wire.
This feature may surprise with its apparent rigidity—some users might expect maximum flexibility. In reality, this controlled firmness makes it easier to navigate complex runs and changes in direction. The cable passes through tight spaces without deforming or bending uncontrollably.
The sequential metric marking from 1 to 500 meters demonstrates attention to practical details. This countdown numbering allows installers to know exactly how much cable remains without fully unwinding the reel, optimizing project management and reducing waste.
The white jacket color meets the aesthetic requirements of installations where the cable may occasionally remain visible, especially in finished attics or well-kept technical spaces.
Safety Certifications and Usage Compatibility
The dual CL3 and FT4 marking on the SLiP-DB 16/2 ensures compliance with strict in-wall installation regulations. The CL3 (Class 3) certification explicitly authorizes use in residential and commercial walls according to the US National Electric Code, a standard widely adopted internationally.
The FT4 (Flame Test 4) standard certifies the fire resistance of the PVC jacket, a crucial aspect for occupant safety. These certifications allow for worry-free use in projects requiring strict regulatory compliance.
The 2 × 1.31 mm² gauge is perfectly suited for standard residential speakers, whether in-ceiling speakers, in-wall, or traditional speakers in a discreet setup. This gauge provides appropriate linear resistance for typical distances of 10 to 30 meters without significant loss.
The SLiP-DB 16/2 naturally fits stereo hi-fi and multichannel home theater systems. Its sonic neutrality preserves the characteristics of connected amplifiers and speakers, with no audible coloration of the signal.
