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Humans are obsessed with staying clean. We bathe or shower regularly (at least most of us do). We trim our hair and nails. Some people even pay for other people to groom them when it comes to pedicures or facials. Hygiene isnt just a modern fad. Its an instinct that humans evolved for well before bathtubs, loofahs, and shampoo. Archaeological evidence suggests humans began combing, plucking, and cutting their hair at least 3,000 years ago. While bathing and grooming is an innate part of being human, there is also evidence that animals, even the ones not so closely related to us, maintain hygiene in some way.The evolutionary advantages of bathing and grooming might seem clear to remove potentially harmful bacteria from the body. But hygiene practices serve many purposes that differ animal to animal. 1. Grooming Habit in Himalayan Tahrs: Reciprocity(Credit: Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH/Shutterstock)Himalayan tahrs are goat-like horned ungulates that are adapted to the high-alpine tundra of the Himalayan range. Like many ungulates, they groom each other's fur by scraping and licking with their teeth and tongues.Recently, a group of scientists paid close attention to these behaviors amongst a cohort of unrelated female tahrs at an open-air zoo in Rome. They were looking to poke holes in the cognitive constraint hypothesis, which claims that non-human animals do not have the cognitive ability to understand reciprocity in the long term. Therefore, mutually beneficial behavior has to give an immediate benefit to both parties. In other words, if you scratch my back, Ill scratch yours right now. As the scientists suspected, the Himalayan tahrs didnt fit the mold. They showed a preference to groom individuals that had groomed them previously, even if hours or days had passed. The authors argued that their observations provided counter evidence to the cognitive constraint hypothesis. Yet, the tahrs behavior could also lead to a third explanation. It could be that the animals developed affinity for each other through grooming. Perhaps its not calculated reciprocity just friendship.2. African Lion Grooming: Social Bonding(Credit: Edwin Butter/Shutterstock)Tahrs arent the only animals that enjoy grooming each other. Social grooming, or allogrooming, has been observed in many mammals, birds, and even insects.For many animals, social grooming is reserved for close kin. But some, like tahrs, seem to receive some other benefit from the behavior.African lions lick each other's fur and rub heads with members of their pride. Though they tend to favor close relatives, they also preferentially groom unrelated lions that are close in age. The evolutionary purpose of this behavior is still somewhat opaque. But observations increasingly suggest that grooming provides social benefits to lions. Its a way to affirm friendships and show affection. After all, relationships are important when you live and hunt in a pride.3. Grooming for Beavers: Waterproofing Fur and Feathers(Credit: Jukka Jantunen/Shutterstock)Some animals hygiene practices serve a more practical purpose. Many aquatic animals habitually groom and oil-up their fur or feathers to keep dry.Beavers groom themselves multiple times a day. In fact, they have evolved highly specialized tools for the task. On each hind leg, they have a split claw a serrated bony growth that they use to meticulously comb their fur. They also have specialized glands near their anus that secrete an oily substance, which they spread over their fur during the grooming process. The oil keeps them warm and dry during long days in the water.Many aquatic birds have a similar gland, commonly known as the preen gland. Ducks, for instance, scoop up the oily secretion from the preen gland and spread it over their feathers to waterproof them.4. Bush Elephant Bathing: Staying Cool in the Heat(Credit: PACO COMO/Shutterstock)It gets hot on the African Savannah, especially when youre a 6-ton mammal that cant fully fit under a tree for shade. African bush elephants have found another use for bathing staying cool. On hot days, they coat themselves in mud to stay wetter longer. One group of scientists found that elephants were more likely to get themselves wet and muddy on days when the temperature rose above 91 degrees Fahrenheit in the sun.Researchers have also found that Asian elephants coat themselves in dirt and dust when its hot out. Interestingly, their observations led them to believe that the purpose of the dust baths was not temperature regulation. Instead, the behavior might help prevent sunburn or ward off parasites.5. Honeybee Grooming: Shedding Pests(Credit: Alexander Wallstrom/Shutterstock)Perhaps one of the best-understood purposes of hygiene is to rid the body of unwanted guests. Animals of all shapes, sizes, and evolutionary lineages engage in behaviors that ward off parasites, viruses, and harmful bacteria. Think of a dog biting off fleas or a horse swatting flies with its tail.For eusocial insects, like honeybees, grooming for parasites can be a collective activity rather than an individual one. European honeybees regularly comb through the hairy area under their nest mates wings using their mandibles. Its an impossible-to-reach spot yourself, and, accordingly, its where parasitic mites like to hide. By grooming each other, the bees are ensuring the health of the hive as a whole.Article SourcesOur writers at Discovermagazine.com use peer-reviewed studies and high-quality sources for our articles, and our editors review for scientific accuracy and editorial standards. Review the sources used below for this article:National Library of Medicine. Dirt, disgust and disease: a natural history of hygieneNational Library of Medicine. Some histochemical and biochemical observations on the preen glandOregon State University. Allogrooming behavior of European honey bees Apis melliferal L.Gabe Allen is a Colorado-based freelance journalist focused on science and the environment. He is a 2023 reporting fellow with the Pulitzer Center and a current master's student at the University of Colorado Center for Environmental Journalism. His byline has appeared in Discover Magazine, Astronomy Magazine, Planet Forward, The Colorado Sun, Wyofile and the Jackson Hole News&Guide.

ShareWe may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more Abby FergusonWithout an air purifier for pets, our furry friends dander can get the better of us. As much as we love our animals, they are ripe with allergens, which can cause serious issues for those with sensitivities. But living with a cat or dog doesnt have to result in misery for those with allergies, even in our own homes. Weve chosen the Levoit Core P350 as the best overall air purifier for pets due to its mix of features for its price. The best air purifiers for pets offer multiple levels of filtration to capture everything from dander and other pet allergens to clumps of loose fur and even odors, getting rid of that wet dog smell.Best overall: Levoit Core P350Best splurge: Molekule Air ProBest for large rooms: GermGuardian Air PurifierBest for small rooms: Molekule Air Mini+Best budget: Winix A231 Tower H13How we chose the best air purifiers for petsMy household comprises a dog whose favorite thing is rolling in the grass, a cat, and a husband who is allergic to all three things. As a result, air purifiers are a must in our household to combat the constant barrage of allergens. When selecting the best air purifiers for pets, we prioritized devices with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, as these offer the best results for reducing allergens. We then looked at other filtration methods (some offer multiple varieties in a single air purifier), room size coverage, and odor-reducing features. Finally, we factored in device size, noise levels, and any additional features, such as timers and connectivity options. We based our selections on hands-on experience, customer feedback, and editorial reviews.The best air purifiers for pets: Reviews & RecommendationsHaving pets in your home doesnt mean you must be miserable and simply deal with allergies, thanks to air purifiers. Purifiers for pets can provide significant relief from the effects of dander and other allergens, like what gets tracked in the house after a long walk, and even get rid of those less-than-pleasant pet odors and floating fluff.Best overall: Levoit Core P350ProsQuietCompactPlenty of settings and controlsPet Lock keeps settings from changing if it gets bumpedConsNo app connectivitySpecsFilter type(s): Fabric pre-filter, True HEPA filter, and activated carbon filterMaximum coverage area: Up to 218 square feetDimensions: 8.7 x 8.7 x 14.2 inchesWeight: 7.5 poundsThe Levoit Core P350 earns our top slot thanks to its balance of features, design, quality, and price. Levoit purpose-built this air purifier for pets, as is evidenced by the Pet-Lock function to keep your furry friend from accidentally changing settings on the touchscreen display. Its also a bonus in households with kids.The Core P350 features a three-in-one filtration system. The Non-Woven Fabric Pre-Filter traps pet fur to reduce the amount of hair on your floors. The Efficient Activated Carbon Filter neutralizes pet odors to keep your home smelling fresh. It effectively removed the dog smell from my office, where the dog crate lives. And finally, the True HEPA filter cleans the air to remove allergens.All three filter types are packed in a relatively compact package with a sleek, attractive design that will fit well in just about any space. Its powerful enough to purify a 219-square-foot room in only 12 minutes, yet can produce as little as 24 decibels. Three fan modes allow you to fine-tune noise levels and cleaning effectiveness, and a night mode turns off lights so you can sleep without distractions.The primary downside to the Core P350 is that it doesnt pair with an app and doesnt offer an air quality sensor. But at $130, its hard to beat all that this air purifier for pets has to offer.Best splurge: Molekule Air ProProsVery quietAutomatic mode detects changes in air qualitySix manual speeds offer lots of controlAttractive designTackles odors, smoke particles, dust, and moreConsExpensiveSpecsFilter type(s): PECO, True- HEPA, and carbon filtersMaximum coverage area: Up to 1000 square feetDimensions: 23.1 x 10.9 inchesWeight: 22.9 poundsIf thorough air-cleaning abilities, smart design, and broad coverage are of utmost importance, the Molekule Air Pro is your best bet. This larger air purifier for pets covers up to 1,000 square feet in rooms with ceilings up to eight feet. The modern design will look smart in your home, and the vegan leather handle makes it easier to move when cleaning a different room.The Air Pro features a True HEPA filter to capture 99.7 percent of small particles. A carbon filter removes odors and gases. But what makes it unique is the light-activated PECO technology, which destroys organic pollutants instead of simply trapping them. In 2023, scientists at the Florida International University published a preclinical study in Nature examining how PECO filters reduce allergic reactions to cat dander. The team found that the PECO filter was more effective at destroying cat dander, thus reducing allergy responses. The air in the room where I have my Air Pro definitely smells fresher since getting this purifier up and running.On top of effective air purifying abilities, Molekules Air Pro is also extremely smart. Thanks to the built-in air quality sensor, it offers two automatic modes. One automatically adjusts the fan speed when it detects increased particles and chemical levels. When I burned some food while cooking, the fan spun up to clear out the smoke faster. The other automatic mode does the same, but silently. There are also six manual fan speeds, so you can take full control when you want. It operates at noise levels between 30-65 decibels, with the lowest level barely noticeable over normal white noise in your home.The Molekule app is easy to navigate and provides daily and weekly air quality assessments. With the Air Pro, you can even break these down into specific pollutants, such as carbon dioxide, VOCs, and various particle sizes. It will remind you when to change filters, and you can subscribe to receive new filters automatically. The Air Pro is expensive, to be sure. But it is ripe with features, scientifically backed, and attractively designed. The steep price tag is the only reason this didnt earn our best overall designation.Best for large rooms: GermGuardian Air PurifierProsCleans up to 1,760 square feetThree fan speed settingsUV-C light reduces germs, viruses, and bacteriaRemoves odorsConsTwo fan speeds are quite loudA bit bulkySpecsFilter type(s): True HEPA, UV-C light, carbon pre-filterMaximum coverage area: Up to 1760 square feetDimensions: 9.65 x 15.95 x 20.87 inchesWeight: 13 poundsLarge spaces require more robust air purifiers for pets. The GermGuardian can purify rooms up to 1,760 square feet, fitting the bill. In rooms that size, it can circulate the air one time per hour. Or, for faster cleaning, it can cycle the air 4.8 times per hour in 365-square-foot spaces. It features three levels of cleaning, including a True HEPA filter, a carbon pre-filter to remove odors and trap pet hair, and a UV-C light to reduce airborne germs.The GermGuardian is roughly the size of a dehumidifier, though slightly more narrow. It will require some space, but since its made for large rooms, that shouldnt be too much of an issue for most. Its relatively affordable for the large coverage as well, which is nice to see. A night mode turns off the devices lights. And an eight-hour auto-off timer keeps it from running unnecessarily.Our main complaint with the GermGuardian is the fan speed settings. There is not much difference in noise between two levels, and both are quite loud. The third setting is barely noticeable, so we primarily keep it at this setting. Having more even differences between the three levels for more control would be nice. There are no sensor or automatic controls, so you must manually change fan speeds. But, overall, it seemed to cut back on our allergies when running and effectively removed odors as well, which is appreciated.Best for small rooms: Molekule Air Mini+ProsExtremely quietPairs with the Molekule appFDA-cleared as a medical deviceCompact and portableConsPricey for the sizeSpecsFilter type(s): PECO, True- HEPA, and carbon filtersMaximum coverage area: Up toDimensions: 8.26 x 8.26 x 12 inchesWeight: 7.3 poundsThe Molekule Air Mini+ is essentially a smaller version of the Air Pro mentioned above. It features the same proprietary PECO-HEPA Tri-Power to purify air from various allergens and pollutants effectively. Like the Air Pro, the Air Mini+ is DA-cleared as a 510(k) Class II medical device to destroy viruses, bacteria, and mold.The Air Mini features a particle sensor to detect and track PM2.5 levels over time, which you can view in the app. The automatic mode spins up the fan as needed, adapting to the current conditions in your room. Or you can manually adjust with five different speed settings, resulting in noise levels from 39 to 62 decibels.This compact air purifier for pets can purify up to 250 square feet. Weve had ours in our bedroom and have noticed much-improved allergies while trying to sleep. The vegan leather handle makes it easy to move if you need to bring it from room to room with you. Although the PECO filter is light-activated, it is very dim and doesnt cause much of a glow in a dark room at night. There are controls on the top of the device that are easy to use, or you can change settings via the Molekule app as well. Overall, its a sleek, effective little air purifier.Best budget: Winix A231 Tower H13ProsWashable pre-filter saves moneyCarbon filter reduces odorsAutomatic mode with built-in sensor and air quality indicatorOffers a dedicated sleep modeConsFairly loud, even on lower settingsSpecsFilter type(s): Washable fine mesh pre-filter, activated carbon filter, True HEPA filterMaximum coverage area: Up to 230 square feetDimensions: 9.5 x 9.5 x 14.6 inchesWeight:The Winix A231 offers quality air purification even for those on a tight budget. And despite the friendly price, it still has plenty of features, making it our best value pick. Most notable for an air purifier for pets at this price is the built-in sensor and automatic mode. Plus, the air quality indicator will alert you to changes in air quality with different light colors on the top of the device.This Winix air filter features three levels of purification. The True HEPA filter captures 99.97 percent of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns in size. The carbon filter reduces odor-causing VOCs to keep your room smelling fresh. A washable fine mesh pre-filter traps larger airborne particles, including pet hair. We love to see a washable design since it saves you money and reduces the environmental impact.Unique to this air purifier is the Winnix PlasmaWave Air Cleaning Technology, which can be turned on or off. Winix says this acts as a permanent filter to break down odor, allergens, chemical vapors, and other pollutants. Unfortunately, users have reported that it is loud even on the lowest fan speed, though the sleep mode does provide quiet operation. But for the price, youll be hard-pressed to find as many features or quality in other options.Air purifiers for pets can vary from extremely simple devices with just a few settings to tech-heavy options with all sorts of fancy features. No matter what variety you are looking for, there are some key things to look out for to ensure you get a quality purifier that will actually clean your air.Filter typesThe most important aspect of any air purifier is the thing doing the purifyingthe filters. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are the best available, so prioritize air purifiers with this type of filter for best results. Thats because HEPA filters can remove 99.97 percent of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, or any other airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, according to the EPA.However, youll want to pay close attention to HEPA filter mentions on air purifier listings. There are True HEPA filters, which are highly effective. But there are also HEPA-like filters, which are not certified to meet the standards mentioned by the EPA.Many air purifiers rely on multiple types of filters, so there are other filter types to pay attention tosome feature activated carbon filters, which work to reduce odors. For households with pets, this may be an extremely important feature. If you have extra furry friends that make it impossible to keep up with vacuuming, look for devices with a pre-filter, which will catch loose hair to prevent it from blocking up the HEPA filter. Some air filters also feature a UV light to kill airborne bacteria.Room sizeAs with any air filter, manufacturers build pet air purifiers for specific room sizes. This will be listed in square footage. A small purifier meant for a 350-square-foot room wont work well in a vast, open space. On the other hand, a large air purifier meant for over 1,000 square feet will be overkill for a tiny bedroom. Be sure to consider where you will put the filter and roughly how many square feet it is before selecting.Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR)Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) refers to the volume of filtered air an air purifier delivers. The CADR is broken into separate scores for tobacco smoke, pollen, and dust. The CADR of your air purifier should be equivalent to at least two-thirds of the rooms area, according to the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM). For example, for a 120-square-foot room, it would be best to have an air cleaner with a smoke CADR of at least 80.Using an air purifier with a CADR number larger than two-thirds of the rooms square footage simply means that it will clean the air more often and faster, which isnt bad. Unfortunately, not all manufacturers will list CADR numbers. But it is worth checking to see if they are provided.Replacement filter costTo keep your filter working, youll need to replace filters occasionally. Some are reusable, though they will still require proper cleaning. If you are on a budget, be sure to factor in the cost of replacement filters on top of the initial cost of the air purifier for pets. Some companies, such as Molekule, offer subscription services to send you new filters when its time automatically. If you tend to forget such things, you may want to opt for a device with a subscription service to keep your air clean.Noise levelsAir filters use a fan to pull air through a filter, inevitably producing noise. Some are louder than others, though. Manufacturers will occasionally list decibel levels; if noise is a concern for your household, check to see if the decibel level is provided on the models you are considering.Luckily, many devices provide multiple fan levels. That means you can turn it up when you want a boost of cleaning and then lower the fan noise when you are trying to watch TV. You can even find models with specific sleep modes to keep the volume down when its time for bed.Additional featuresBeyond the necessities, you may find additional features on air purifiers for pets that could be of interest. Some offer timers so that you arent constantly running the unit. Others feature air quality sensors to keep you aware of the air quality in a given room. Others provide app connectivity with reminders to change filters, remote control features, and more.FAQsQ: Do air purifiers really work for pets? Yes, air purifiers are effective at removing pet-related allergens. A 2022 study found that air filtration was effective in removing mites, cat and dog allergens and also particulate matter from ambient indoor air, offering a fast and simple solution to mitigate allergen exposome. Q: Do air purifiers remove pet smells? Certain air purifiers remove pet smells, but not all. Pet odors are the result of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The molecules in VOCs are too small for HEPA filters, so an air purifier with only that variety of filtration will not remove the odors. However, an air purifier with a carbon filter will trap odors to remove them from the air. If pet odors are a significant concern, a purifier with a carbon filter will be crucial. Keep in mind, though, that carbon filters need to be changed fairly frequently to maintain effectiveness. That cost can add up quickly. For an alternative to carbon filters, you may want to consider Molekules proprietary PECO technology. Intertek, a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL), independently tested the PECO technology and found it to be effective against airborne chemicals. Q: Where do you put an air purifier for pets? There are a few things to consider when choosing a location for your air purifier. First, placing the purifier close to the pollutant source will make it more effective. For example, putting the air filter by a litter box, dog crate, or wherever your pet spends time will clean up the air before it has time to travel around your house. Second, you may want to place your air purifier where you spend most of your time so that you actually benefit from the clean air. If you suffer from bad allergies at night, a small air purifier for your nightstand may offer the most impact. Finally, air purifiers need airflow to do their job. Placing it against a wall can limit that and may even damage the device. Be sure to provide a little breathing room for the air purifier to function properly. Q: How do you maintain an air purifier? Each air filter will have different maintenance requirements. Some rely on reusable filters that need to be vacuumed or washed out. Others use disposable filters that need to be replaced every few months. The best air purifiers for pets will offer a light or app notification that alerts you when its time to change the filter, but consult your product manual to keep the device working as it should. Final thoughts on the best air purifiers for petsBest overall: Levoit Core P350Best splurge: Molekule Air ProBest for large rooms: GermGuardian Air PurifierBest for small rooms: Molekule Air Mini+Best budget: Winix A231 Tower H13As much as we love the animals in our lives, they put out an awful lot of allergens. Even those without serious allergies may suffer from minor reactions to all that dander and associated pollutants. The best air purifier for pets will keep the air clean even with a small zoo in your house, making it more comfortable and safer for everyone involved.

ShareWe may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more Speaker wire is the unsung hero of any good audio setup and even home theater system. Even the most affordable interconnects can have your speakers pumping in no time. However, many speakers dont come with wire, making shopping a necessity. Weve chosen the Monoprice 102747 12AWG Speaker Wire as our best overall speaker wire pick for its excellent value. But, every audio system is different. So, whether youre just getting ready to build your system or looking to expand your existing equipment, well explain some of the jargon and guide you toward selecting the best speaker wires for crystal-clear audio.Best overall: Monoprice 102747 12AWG Speaker WireBest for car audio: InstallGear 14 AWG Speaker WireBest for home theater: MaxBrite 16 AWG Speaker WireBest bi-wire: Monoprice Access Series 4-ConductorBest for outdoors: GearIT 14 AWG Outdoor Speaker WireBest budget: AmazonBasics 16AWG Speaker WireHow we chose the best speaker wiresTo select the best speaker wires, we looked at wire material, gauge, and manufacturer to ensure reliability across the board. We looked at over 25 recommended brands, consulted research articles, and investigated first-hand user reviews, diving deep into the debate regarding the relationship between wire quality and price. We also looked at our personal stereo speakers and home theater systems, recommending wires we used to provide a personal touch. While its ultimately up to you to determine whether you hear a significant difference in audio quality using particular wires, each of our picks will provide a strong, sturdy connection for excellent sound.The best speaker wires: Reviews & RecommendationsThere is much debate about whether expensive speaker wires perform significantly better than lower-priced models. The general consensus is no; listening tests and extensive research led by audio professionals agree that the quality of your speaker wire will likely be the same across the board. We recommend reaching for a speaker cable that is solidly in the middle of the pricing spectrum; the cheapest cable might not be built to last, while the most expensive cable may not improve the quality of your audio. Our recommendations let you save money for more critical pieces of gear (like a high-end set of floorstanding speakers) that have a greater impact on your sound, such as amps/receivers, interfaces, and more.A Clear ChoiceProsReputable brandAvailable in multiple lengths/gaugesPolarity indicatorConsWire may need to be trimmed for at-home systemsSlightly more expensive than other mid-range modelsWhy it made the cut: The Monoprice 12-AWG cable is a safe, affordable option for at-home and professional systems. The thick gauge is sturdy, and the clear PVC jacket means you can easily identify polarity.SpecsLength: 50 / 100 / 300 feetGauge: 12 / 14 / 16 AWG availableWire Material: Oxygen-free copperThis 12-gauge speaker wire is made from 99.95% pure oxygen-free bare copper that creates a low resistance pathway allowing signals to pass through easily. The jacket is made from transparent PVC, which lets you watch the copper wire to look out for any signs of damage and distinguish polarity.A Driving SoundProsPriceFlexibleColored jacket makes it easy to identify polarityConsCCA may be less conductive than other materialsNo short length optionsWhy it made the cut: InstallGear 14-gauge wire is thick enough to reduce resistance. It includes features to make installation easy, including a soft, colored jacket and the option for included connectors.SpecsLength: 100 / 500 feetGauge: 14 AWGWire Material: Copper-clad aluminumThis InstallGear speaker wire is particularly popular for car speaker systems but can also be used for home systems. The dual-colored jacket makes it easy to identify polarity, and its made from soft PVC, so its easy to maneuver under carpets, behind side panels, and through small openings (plus you can strip it quickly). You can also purchase InstallGear wires with banana plugs to simplify things even further. If blue and black arent for you, InstallGear also offers wires with different jackets so that you can choose your preferred color combination, including clear, solid white, and solid black options.A Brite IdeaProsUL Safety Certified200-ft length optionMarkings every 2 feetConsNot available in lengths greater than 200 feetWhy it made the cut: The MaxBrite speaker wire comes with features we love, including markings every 2 feet of wire for straightforward measurements and a polarity indicator.SpecsLength: 50 / 100 / 200 feetGauge: 16 AWGWire Material: Oxygen-free copperThis thin, 16-gauge wire is an excellent option for low-impedance speakers and shorter cable runs, like from a receiver to the front stereo and satellite speakers around the TV in a cozy, comfy living room. The OFC conductors are compatible with most available connectors and a visible red stripe helps to indicate polarity. There is a sequential marker every 2 feet, so you can more easily measure out the necessary length. Additionally, this wire is UL safety certified for home and commercial use.Bi-amping? Here's Wire 4 YouProsMultiple gauge optionsHighly ratedFour conductorsConsExpensiveShorter cable lengths are unavailableWhy it made the cut: This Monoprice cable is a reliable four-conductor speaker wire for additional connectivity made from quality oxygen-free copper.SpecsLength: 100 / 250 feetGauge: 12 / 14 / 16 / 18 AWGWire Material: Oxygen-free copperWhere the other products listed here have two conductors for a one-to-one connection, this wire contains twice as many. Additional conductors can be used for bi-amping, a feature in some speakers that separately power drivers dedicated to specific frequencies. The Monoprice bi-wire organizes four colored conductors encased in a white, CL2-rated PVC jacket, allowing you to link the dedicated high- and low-frequency amplifiers with your speaker while only stringing one length.Cover Every Yard In MusicProsMultiple gauge optionsCL3 RatingDurableConsA little priceySheathing can be challenging to cutWhy it made the cut: This GearIT wire is our top selection for outdoor use because it has a UL CL3 rating and is approved for direct burial.SpecsLength: 50 / 100 / 250 / 500 feetGauge: 10 / 12 / 14 / 16 AWGWire Material: Oxygen-free copperIf you want to run your speaker wires underground, youll need a wire designed for direct burial to keep you and your connection safe. This wire from GearIT does just that, with an extra black, UV-resistant PVC jacket to keep things secure. This outer jacket also has sequential markings every foot for more accurate measurement approximations. Each wire has a color-coded jack inside the outer layer for polarity identification. This wire is also approved for in-wall installation and pairs easily with most connectors.A Good Deal (Of Wire)ProsInexpensiveHighly ratedFlexibleConsPolarity can be harder to identifyWhy it made the cut: The AmazonBasics speaker wire is an excellent budget-friendly option with glowing reviews that espouse its functionality. While it may not be top-of-the-line or feature pure copper, it will get the job done for at-home systems.SpecsLength: 100 feetGauge: 16 AWGWire Material: Copper-Clad AluminumIf you are putting together a home system and dont care to weigh in on the CCA versus OFC material debate, then going with this affordable option wont lead you astray. This 16-gauge wire is wrapped in a clear plastic jacket, with a white line down one side to indicate polarity. While this pick isnt as visible as color-coded jackets, youll still be able to tell how to establish each channels symmetry between amp and speaker. Its compatible with almost any connector and is neatly wrapped around a plastic dispenser.Things to consider before buying speaker wireThere are a seemingly infinite number of speaker wires to choose from, but the reality is that when connecting most speakers, most wires are fairly similar. To select the right speaker wire for you, its essential to consider and understand the language manufacturers will use to describe them. Well walk you through terms like impedance, gauge, and resistance to help you select from our recommendations.Function and materialSpeaker wire connects speakers to AV receivers and discrete amplifiers and links individual speakers together to deliver the electrical current signal for an accurate, energetic sound. While we refer to a speaker wire as a singular thing, there are actually two independently sheathed conductors (minimum) that connect every speaker. These separate positive and negative strands are typically marked in some way to indicate audio signal polarity so they can properly match the same terminalsdesignated by + and or typically colored red and blackon both your amp and speaker. This assures they transmit/receive the correct voltage.Standard speaker wires are generally made from copper, copper-clad aluminum (CCA), and oxygen-free copper. The differences are relatively minute; CCA is cheaper with slightly higher resistance, while oxygen-free options come in several grades that suggest higher conductivity or durability. Silver and gold wires are also available, though the difference in efficacy is, once again, minimal. While there can be subtle differences in soundsilver (or silver-plated copper) wire may convey a tighter treble and gold a rounder, warmer lower rangethe nuances arent worth the increased cost except in the most high-end, specifically tuned systems. Speaker wire is often insulated by plastic like Teflon or PVC. However, some wires are sheathed in rubber (clear casings let you see the red/black polarity, typically indicated on the connectors of a preconstructed wire).ResistanceA speaker wires resistance is the most important specification when shopping. Low resistance allows the wire to energize more of the amplifiers power to activate the speakers voice coil, which is wiring underneath the driver that produces a magnetic field when introduced to electricity, moving the speakers cone when introduced to a waveform. (If youre interested in exactly what makes up a speaker, check out our primer.) In simplest terms, more signal equals cleaner, clearer sound.A few factors can affect a wires resistance, including length, thickness, and impedance. Impedance is often listed in speaker product descriptions, measured in ohms (typically 4, 6, or 8). While you dont necessarily need to understand the science behind impedance other than to know you should make sure the ohms of your amp/receiver and speakers correspond, know that the lower the impedance, the more critical it is to seek out a low resistance in your wire.GaugeA major difference between speaker wires is gauge, or diameter, also called thickness; the lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire. Measurements are based on the American Wire Gauge (AWG) standard, and you can find 12-, 14-, 16-, and 18-gauge speaker wire, 12 being the thickest. Generally, thicker wires reduce resistance but are only necessary for certain situations. If you have 8-ohm speakers and under 50 feet of cable run to the amplifier, you dont need a wire thicker than 16 gauge. If you need to cover a great distance or have low-impedance speakers, a thicker 12- or 14-gauge wire will lower resistance and make for a more stable, consistent conduit. If youre unsure what gauge you need, it is safer to use a thicker option to avoid sound degradation.Connectors and wire typeSpeaker wires can come with or without connectors; its up to you to decide whether to purchase a package or get a raw wire spool and separately select your own termination. (And if youre doing that, dont forget to get a wire stripper/cutter.) A banana plug is best if your speaker has a binding post (circular sockets), but youll need a pin connector for a spring clip terminal (square clips that slide up and clamp down on the wire). You can use bare wires for either connection, but they can be a bit of a pain to control.You dont need to worry about wire type if you are running speaker wire between bookshelf speakers or studio monitors, for instance. To run wire inside your wallsif, say, youre building a home studio from the ground uplook for a unit rated CL2 or CL3. If you are running wire outside and/or underground, look for a wire rated for direct burial.FAQsQ: How much does speaker wire cost? Quality speaker wire can cost between $15 $75 for spools that typically come in 50- or 100-foot lengths. Q: Are high-end speaker cables worth it? High-end speaker cables are not necessarily worth the investment, especially when other areas of your sound system could benefit from an upgrade. As long as you select a low-resistance speaker wire that can support your system, its unlikely that youll notice a difference in your music when supported by an expensive cable. However, this is a hotly debated topic, and a handful of audiophiles feel differently. Ultimately, all that matters is how your material sounds to your ears; if you try out a few cables and notice a difference, go with what sounds best. Q: How much wire do you need? You need as much speaker wire as you have distance between speakers and the amplifiers. For maximum accuracy, place a string or rope along the wires intended path, then measure its length. We recommend adding a couple of inches on either end, just in case you need a bit of slack. Speaker wires can be easily trimmed with a wire cutter, but you cant add wire to a unit thats too short. Remember, if your cable run is longer than 50 feet, youll want to pick up a thicker 12 or 14 AWG wire. Q: What type of wire do you need? You need a copper, silver, or copper-clad aluminum wire to conduct and carry electricity. If you want to run your wire inside a wall or underground, youll need one specifically rated CL2 or CL3. If you want super easy installation, purchase a wire that comes with the appropriate connectors preinstalled, though using bare wire is not dangerous and will also work well. Final thoughts on picking the best speaker wiresBest overall: Monoprice 102747 12AWG Speaker WireBest for car audio: InstallGear 14 AWG Speaker WireBest for home theater: MaxBrite 16 AWG Speaker WireBest bi-wire: Monoprice Access Series 4-ConductorBest for outdoors: GearIT 14 AWG Outdoor Speaker WireBest budget: AmazonBasics 16AWG Speaker WireThe best speaker wire will efficiently connect your system, deliver the appropriate amount of electricity, and aid in accurate audio reproduction. While there are many cables out there, in most situations, its important to remember not to overthink this purchase and go with a mid-range option that will suit the needs of your amp and speakers. The wire should maybe be 5% to 10% of your systems budget. Of course, if youre an audiophile ready to test the limits of each type of wire, it might be worth it to conduct a test of your own with higher-end materials; however, many of us wont notice the difference between premium speaker wires and more affordable options as much as well notice the difference between music and no music. Just ensure you understand the proper length you need, line up your terminals and polarities correctly, and youll be ready to pump up the jams in no time.

PuzzlesBuried Treasure Crossword By Shannon Rapp and Rebecca Goldstein4 seconds agoSid Sivakumar, a puzzle constructor and M.D./Ph.D. student in biomedical engineering and neuroscience, edited this puzzle.Looking for answers? Go to sciencenews.org/puzzle-answers. Well publish science-themed crosswords and math puzzles on alternating months. Wed love to hear your thoughts. Email us at puzzles@sciencenews.org.

Nature, Published online: 20 February 2025; doi:10.1038/d41586-025-00525-1The breakneck pace and devastating impact of the administrations policy changes has researchers shocked.

Nature, Published online: 20 February 2025; doi:10.1038/s41586-025-08587-xUsing cryo-electron microscopy, the structures of mammalian fatty acid synthase reveal how the acyl carrier protein dynamically shuttles intermediates between selected active sites.