Mercury Figure 8 Speaker Cable 2 x 42 OFC Black 100m

The Mercury Figure 8 speaker cable is a 100m reel of two-core OFC speaker cable with 42 strands per core (2 x 42 x 0.15mm diameter strands), a combined cross-sectional area of 0.74mm² per core, and a 6A maximum current rating. The oxygen-free copper conductors reduce signal resistance compared to standard copper, making the cable suitable for hi-fi systems, home theatre installations, and small-to-medium PA setups where cable runs extend beyond 10-15 metres.

Designed for installers and audio integrators, the 100m reel format allows multiple speaker runs to be cut from a single spool without joins or waste. The figure-8 profile (two parallel cores bonded along their length) measures 3.0 x 6.0mm overall, making it easy to run along skirting boards, through conduit, or under carpets. The black outer sheath carries a white polarity stripe on one core, providing a quick visual reference for maintaining correct phase across multiple speakers.

The 0.74mm² cross-sectional area per core suits speaker loads between 4Ω and 8Ω at distances up to 20 metres without significant signal loss, assuming typical domestic or light commercial amplifier outputs. The 42-strand construction provides flexibility for routing around corners and through tight spaces, while the OFC material minimises oxidation and maintains consistent conductivity over time. The cable is supplied on a cardboard reel for clean dispensing during installation.

What length of cable run does 0.74mm² support?

At 0.74mm² per core, this cable handles typical domestic speaker loads (4Ω to 8Ω) over runs up to 20 metres without significant signal loss. For longer runs or higher-power applications, a larger CSA cable (1.0mm² or 1.5mm²) may be needed to maintain efficiency.

Is the cable suitable for in-wall installation?

The cable is not rated as fire-retardant or low-smoke zero-halogen (LSZH), so it is not typically used for permanent in-wall installation in commercial buildings governed by building regulations. For residential use where regulations are less stringent, consult a qualified electrician before concealing the cable in walls or ceilings.

What does the white polarity stripe indicate?

The white stripe runs along one of the two cores, identifying it as the positive or negative conductor depending on your wiring convention. Maintaining consistent polarity across all speakers prevents phase cancellation and ensures accurate stereo imaging.

Can this cable be used for bi-wiring speakers?

Yes. The figure-8 profile provides two separate cores that can be split at the speaker end to connect separately to high-frequency and low-frequency binding posts on bi-wirable speakers, though dedicated bi-wire cable with four separate cores is generally preferred for that application.