What’s your favorite cleaning method for connections

@ljgerens 

All of what you last posted may be absolutely correct. I would like to read references.

But since there are no measurements (nor anecdotal representations), one cannot conclude that scrubbing pads affect the sound.

One might advise against using scrubbing pads for the reasons you’ve stated. However, without real data advising it, it is just a choice, not a necessity.

If you live in a humid climate disconnect and spray/dip battery cleaner fluid. Wipe dry. I'm in the dry desert so I don't disturb them. 

@kevemaher 

There are many references in the scientific literature regarding Ag2S formation on Ag surfaces. You can easily search for them. None of the references relate the surface changes of Ag to changes in the SQ of an audio system. We have measured the surface work function of various clean Ag surfaces before and after exposure to sulphur containing gases. For a stepped Ag surface, the surface work function increases by more than 1.0 eV with a gas concentration of ~1.5 ppm for a couple of minutes. This means it requires more than 1 eV to move an electron from the valence band to the conduction band. This corresponds to a significant drop in surface conductivity. This level of Ag2S formation would probably have little to no effect on SQ. However longer exposures would create a thicker layer of Ag2S and should  have a significant effect on conductivity. At this point, I would expect there would be some changes in SQ. 

@ljgerens 

I understand the technical details you’ve provided. I’ve got an MS in Physics and lots of work experience. I cannot refute your information nor your expertise.

I am also an audio enthusiast. My technical side wants to see measurements. My artistic side want to know if there is an effect on sound quality.

I have not done any measurements, but I have done a lot of listening. I hear no before/after differences.

I have enough test equipment to make the usual audio measurements (A/D, REW, PC and cables). I could make measurements. What do you think I should measure first? 

Audiogon makes it difficult to embed files in posts. I will make an effort to report as best as I can.

Deoxit. Every few months whenever I thinks about or get bored.