GLS Audio speaker wire is manufactured with the highest grade materials in the industry. And most importantly, is rated in true AWG spec which stands for "American Wire Gauge". The AWG rating was developed by the USA as a result of some wire manufacturers stating their wire was a certain spec when it really wasn"t. You"ll notice most imported wire and cable manufacturers will rate their wire in "G" or Gauge (not AWG). The "G" rating can be used for any wire size. For example: A 12G rated cable may only be equivalent to a 18AWG cable (or worse). There are no regulations or specifications on "G" rated cables. How can you determine if a "G" rated cable is the same spec as an AWG cable? Unfortunately, you can"t unless you test the power loss per foot. Sometimes the weight may be an indicator. For example: GLS Audio 500ft 12AWG spool weighs about 25 lbs whereas most of our competitors only weigh about 15lbs. This may be a direct result of the wire gauge not being true AWG.