FAQ
TL;DR: Typical extensions add ≥50% length; use 1–1.5 mm² cable and keep polarity. "Better to buy cables of the appropriate length... 1–1.5 mm²." [Elektroda, DjMapet, post #16702806]
Why it matters:** This FAQ helps Sony HT-RT3 owners extend rear speaker runs cleanly, safely, and without signal loss.
Quick Facts
- Sony uses proprietary-style satellite plugs; visually similar plugs may not fit. [Elektroda, 398216 Usunięty, post #16698066]
- Service centers often don’t require original cables during warranty repair, easing extension concerns. [Elektroda, 398216 Usunięty, post #16698066]
- For long runs, use cable with 1–1.5 mm² cross‑section to limit losses. [Elektroda, DjMapet, post #16702806]
- Reversed polarity won’t damage the amp, but it ruins imaging (out‑of‑phase sound). [Elektroda, 398216 Usunięty, post #16701483]
- Best joint quality: solder, then heat‑shrink insulation for reliability. [Elektroda, 398216 Usunięty, post #19718043]
Can I buy the exact Sony HT‑RT3 satellite plug ends?
Not as standalone parts. Manufacturers use model‑specific plugs, and visually similar ones often don’t fit. Consider extending or reterminating instead. [Elektroda, 398216 Usunięty, post #16698016]
Will extending the cables void my warranty?
A veteran service tech noted service centers don’t request customers’ cables for repairs, so cable extensions rarely matter for warranty handling. [Elektroda, 398216 Usunięty, post #16698066]
What cable size should I use for longer rear runs?
Use 1–1.5 mm² speaker cable for longer extensions to reduce loss, especially when adding ≥50% length. [Elektroda, DjMapet, post #16702806]
What happens if I connect speaker wires backwards?
The system plays out of phase. Imaging collapses and bass thins, but the amplifier is not harmed. "Speakers must play in phase." [Elektroda, 398216 Usunięty, post #16701483]
How do I keep polarity correct when joining wires?
Match + to + and − to − from wall to speaker leads. Remove or adapt plugs, then join consistently end‑to‑end. [Elektroda, DjMapet, post #19722967]
What’s the best way to join two speaker cables?
Solder the conductors and cover each joint with heat‑shrink tubing for strong, insulated connections. [Elektroda, 398216 Usunięty, post #19718043]
I have in‑wall 2×1.5 mm² cable. Can I use it with HT‑RT3 rears?
Yes. Join the in‑wall cable to the speaker leads, keeping polarity. You can remove plugs or use inline connectors. [Elektroda, DjMapet, post #19722967]
Are there off‑the‑shelf connector workarounds?
Yes. Some third‑party tool‑free speaker connectors are marketed to fit Sony/Samsung systems. Verify fit before buying. [Elektroda, matej1410, post #16698050]
Can I fabricate a mating plug if I can’t source Sony’s?
One workaround is cutting ATX motherboard plugs to match pin spacing. It trades aesthetics for compatibility; wire polarity must be correct. [Elektroda, luka1755, post #16699465]
What does “bare cable” mean here—do I need insulation?
You must use insulated conductors. Join, solder if possible, and insulate each splice to prevent shorts. [Elektroda, 398216 Usunięty, post #19718043]
What is a banana plug, and should I use it?
A banana plug is a spring‑contact speaker connector. You can add banana plug-and-socket pairs inline for tidy, serviceable joins. [Elektroda, DjMapet, post #19722967]
How do I extend HT‑RT3 rear speaker cables without degrading sound?
- Cut or adapt to use longer 1–1.5 mm² cable.
- Keep polarity consistent through all joins.
- Add quality connectors or solder and insulate each splice.
This reduces resistance and preserves dynamics. [Elektroda, DjMapet, post #16702806]
Is it okay to just add more of the thin original wire?
Avoid that for long extensions. Thin wire plus extra length increases resistance and audible loss; upsize to 1–1.5 mm². [Elektroda, DjMapet, post #16702806]
Edge case: What if connectors look identical but won’t seat?
Brands often use near‑identical shells with different keys. Forcing them risks damage; adapt or reterminate instead. [Elektroda, 398216 Usunięty, post #16698066]
