Syston 18/8 Low Voltage Security Sound Alarm Cable 600 ft

Our review of the Syston 18/8 Low Voltage Security Sound Alarm Cable finds it well suited for installers and system integrators who need a reliable, multi-conductor control cable for low-voltage building systems. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of stranded pure copper conductors and a CMR/CL3R/FT4 riser-rated jacket, which together deliver dependable conductivity and enhanced flame-retardant protection for commercial riser runs. For projects involving fire alarm, access control, security, or public address wiring where safety and signal integrity matter, this cable makes practical sense.

Key Features

• Multiple application support: Designed for fire alarm, security, intercoms, PA systems and other power-limited circuits so it can be used across common low-voltage building installations.
• Pure stranded copper conductors: Stranded bare copper conductors provide consistent conductivity and flexibility for easier routing and reliable signal transmission.
• Riser-rated jacket (CMR/CL3R/FT4): The flame-retardant riser rating gives added safety for vertical riser shafts and commercial building runs compared with basic CM cable.
• 300V, CL3 rated insulation: A 300V rating and Class 3 power limitation make it appropriate for thermostats, security devices and low-voltage A/V gear while providing insulation margin.
• Standards and compliance: Built to NEC 725 & 800 and UL 13/444 with UL 1666 (riser) and CSA FT4 recognitions, offering installers confidence in regulatory compatibility.

Who It's For

This cable is aimed at electricians, security and fire alarm contractors, and facility maintenance teams who regularly install or retrofit low-voltage control systems in commercial and multi-story buildings. Its riser-rated jacket and standards compliance make it particularly useful where code-required vertical runs or power-limited circuits are present.

Home hobbyists or single-room low-voltage projects can use this cable, but those wanting ultra-thick conductors for high-current tasks or shielded specialty pairs should consider alternatives; the product is unshielded and optimized for signal and control rather than heavy power delivery.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good conductor quality and flexibility from stranded bare copper improves handling and long-term conductivity.
• Riser-rated flame retardancy provides extra safety for commercial vertical runs and code-sensitive installations.
• Broad application compatibility covers alarms, intercoms, PA, access control and other low-voltage uses.
• Customers report easy dispensing and solid value for money.

Cons

• Unshielded construction means it is not ideal where extra EMI/RFI protection is required for sensitive signals.
• Some users describe the conductor bundle as relatively thin, which may not suit every preference for heft.

Specifications

Conductor	Stranded bare copper
Gauge / Conductors	18 AWG, 8 conductors
Length	600 ft
Voltage Rating	300V, CL3 rated
Fire Rating	CMR / CL3R / FT4 (riser-rated)
Shielding	Unshielded
Compliance	NEC 725 & 800, UL 13 & UL 444, UL 1666, CSA C22.2 RoHS

Our Verdict

The Syston 18/8 riser-rated alarm cable is a practical, cost-effective choice for electricians and contractors handling fire alarm, security and other low-voltage control systems in commercial buildings. Its stranded copper conductors and CMR jacket deliver reliable conductivity and improved fire safety, representing strong value for typical power-limited applications where shielding is not required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cable suitable for outdoor use?
Answer: The cable is UV resistant per the product description and can be used for indoor/outdoor installations where UV exposure is expected, but it is primarily a control cable designed for protected runs.

Does the cable include shielding for noise protection?
Answer: No, this product is unshielded; choose a shielded control cable if EMI/RFI protection is needed for sensitive signals.

Can it be used for fire alarm circuits?
Answer: Yes, it is listed for fire alarm and other power-limited circuits and carries riser-rated flame-retardant certifications suitable for many commercial projects.