This part has been bugging me since I first read it. Other than custom bundled cables and power snakes with speaker level returns are there standard multi core bundles that use a larger gauge wire for returns? Every reel of bulk I've ever gotten has had the same configuration per channel and did not have designated returns until it was terminated. On pre-made snakes the only indication of a "return line" was a different shrink wrap size or color along with labeling. Am I way off here? Have I been mis-informed all these years?
All the multicore I have used is just like you describe, Lee.
However, if the snake is anything like the
Whirlwind Medusa Power series, the returns could be larger gauge speaker wire to allow a powered mixer to run the amp outs through it. Whirlwind's model has 4 "normal" returns and 2 "speaker" returns. however.
Maybe the OP can post a picture or give us more info on the labelling of the snake and box.