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Any Difference Between Gold and Silver RCA/XLR Connector Plugs?

How much of a factor does the type of plating (gold or silver) on RCA and XLR cables play on the overall sonic signature of a cable?

I went ahead and ordered basic Neutrik XLRs with silver contacts without much thought into it. However, the equipment I'm connecting to has gold pins on the outputs and inputs. Is it a better idea (in theory) to use XLR cables with gold pins to match the equipment?
slag_lover2013

Showing 1 response by auxinput

auxinput
2,920 posts
 
Wow, I'm surprised there are no other answers than "it makes no difference".

Silver is the best conductor of electricity.  However, it can come across very bright sounding.  It tends to push the upper mids and highs.  Sometimes there is a lack of bass or a lean bass.

Gold-plated will not corrode or tarnish like silver, but it generally is warmer sounding with rolled off or soft high frequencies.
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