Which 2 heat shrink sizes for making DIY cables?

[bigmikebass]

Hey all,
On a roll with questions and awesome answers. I’m making some cables (instrument/xlr) for our studio.

Which size for shrink for the main cable strain relief, and which size for the internal connections?
Thanks in advance for your time.
Was wondering if I got 3:1 shrink would it work better on an assortment of uses.
Mike

 

[Pep]

I usually use 2:1 and it works great for all of my applications.

 

[ardgedee]

Most 3:1 I've used are rigid little pipes after they've shrunk. Not a problem in some applications but it makes them bad as strain relief.

 

[Slevage]

Most 3:1 I've used are rigid little pipes after they've shrunk. Not a problem in some applications but it makes them bad as strain relief.

Use the next size down. If you don’t shrink to the end of the range, it usually works better. As others have stated- 2:1 is preferred.