Silver plated copper


Please explain to me the theoretical basis of using silver plated copper in cables. Seems counter intuitive to me. Signal would have two paths with different conductivity which would cause distortion.
crwindy

Showing 3 responses by erik_squires

I doubt there's much measurable.

I will say that when I have tried them, I preferred pure copper. I felt the silver/copper cables took a long time before they sounded less harsh, and when they finally did, sounded no better than plain copper.

Of course, I'm probably nuts.

Best,
E
Many topics in science use the word "theory."


It does not mean unproven. It means there is an explanatory model.


For instance, the "theory" of gravity. It is not up for ephemeral debate, nor is the "theory" of relativity or flight. While both the theory of gravity and relativity continue to be improved upon, they are the equivalent of "scientific fact."


However, going back to skin effect, it is real but I’ve never seen any models which explain why this would matter at audio frequencies with common conductor sizes.


Best,

E
Personally, I think it's hooey. :)


The silver coating on the copper is barely there, but commands a major premium in price.


Personally, at least for interconnects, I buy pure silver cables and make my own, and stick to pure copper for speakers.


As I've mentioned, I've used silver plated copper in speaker cables. And, with ZERO explanatory theory, it was not better. In fact it was worse. For days, and then finally as good as copper.


I have no model or theory to explain this.