A subject that occasionally is discussed here is whether biwiring speakers provides any audible benefit. The replies are typically divided into the usual polarized camps. I offer a few samples below, hoping that someone can offer answers that are more thoughtful:



  • Biwiring means only buy wire. It does nothing at all.
  • Speaker manufacturers provide biwire hookups because of marketing reasons, not because there is any real benefit. They do not want to loose customers who may believe this feature is necessary.
  • Why do you care what others may say? Try it yourself and trust your ears.
There are numerous speaker manufacturers who provide the separate crossovers and terminals needed for biwiring or biamping, especially on their higher priced models. Usually they are supplied with a strap or bar that bridges the terminals, allowing the option of standard wiring. Some makers, like Vanderstein, leave this part out, in essence, recommending biwiring. Other makers, such as Thiele, choose to provide only one pair of terminals, preventing the possibility of biwiring.

What information have any of you learned about why such experienced and respected speaker designers arrive at these opposing decisions?

PC Tower, you have mentioned your Vanderstein 5 speakers. Have you ever asked Richard Vanderstein why he recommends biwiring? I have listened to his 2ce and 3A signature models and love them. His reasons would be interesting to know. I am also curious why Jim Thiele avoids building biwiring hookups in his speakers.