Brass versus copper binding posts


Greetings all. My current speakers are the Usher Dancer Mini-X DMD. I recently removed the press on tabs that connect the internal speaker wires to the drivers and solder them directly with cardas silver. I perceive an increase in sound quality, and as we know perception is reality. I planned on doing the same thing at The binding posts. I assumed they were gold-plated copper. But when I put a small drill point into the end of the threaded post the color stayed the same where I expected to see an obvious copper color. I think this means my binding posts are brass. If I’m correct that seems like a cost saving decision by Usher. Would those of you who know more about this stuff than I do agree it would be worth the time and money needed to switch to some quality gold or rhodium plated copper binding posts? Thanks in advance

milkdudd

Typically, connectors and such will be made with one of the brass/copper alloys commonly used for electrical connections. Tellurium copper is a common choice or Muntz Metal, other alloys may be used for cost saving factors. After machining they will be copper flash plated, then finished plated with gold, silver, or other finishes. The plating is going to carry the electrical current so except for wear just about anything will work, even steel. 

@milkdudd ,

I have those same speakers. Never considered changing binding posts, they are so hefty and nicely made. I can recommended bi-wiring however. Of course low mass is all the rage these days 

I think copper is the most conductive but it can rust or oxidize over time.  I think that is why they do bronze or rhodium or light gold plate, to make sure there isn't rust over time.