When shopping for speaker wire or audio cables, you may come across terms like “oxygen-free copper” and “pure bare copper.” While they sound similar, there are a few key differences that can help you choose the right cable for your setup.
What Is Oxygen-Free Copper?
Oxygen-free copper (often labeled as OFC) is copper that has been refined to reduce the amount of oxygen and other impurities. It typically contains 99.95% or more pure copper.
Benefits of OFC:
- Slightly better conductivity than standard copper
- More resistant to corrosion over time
- Often used in high-end audio setups
What Is Pure Bare Copper?
Pure bare copper (PBC) is also high-quality copper, but it may not go through the same refining process as OFC. It still offers excellent conductivity and is widely used in speaker wire and audio cables.
Benefits of PBC:
- Reliable performance for most home and professional audio systems
- Cost-effective without sacrificing quality
- Durable and easy to work with
What About Copper-Clad Aluminum (CCA)?
CCA cables are made with an aluminum core coated in a thin layer of copper. They are a more affordable option and can work well in low-power or budget-friendly setups.
However, compared to solid copper cables, CCA has:
- Lower conductivity
- Higher resistance
- Less durability under stress or long cable runs
For the best performance and long-term reliability, especially in audio systems where signal quality matters, solid copper cables like OFC or PBC are generally the better choice.
Quick Summary
- OFC (Oxygen-Free Copper): Slightly better conductivity and corrosion resistance. Great for premium setups.
- PBC (Pure Bare Copper): Excellent performance and value for most users.
- CCA (Copper-Clad Aluminum): Budget-friendly and usable in some cases, but not ideal for high-performance audio.
Need Help?
Monoprice offers a wide selection of oxygen-free and pure bare copper cables to suit your needs. If you're not sure which one is right for your system, our support team is happy to help.