C O N N E C T I N G A N D P O W E R I N G
12
6
Connecting and Powering
Binding Posts
The standard binding posts accept spades or bare wire, but not banana plugs,
although they can be clamped into the posts in a pinch, so to speak. We have
nothing against banana plugs, but came to appreciate the design of the Cardas
Patented post assembly, with its handy, single knob clamping mechanism, solid
copper posts, and rhodium plating. (Rhodium has the corrosion resistance of gold,
but is much harder.) A proper connection is well assured in all environments
without periodic tightening.
We also offer 5-way posts on special order that will accept banana plugs.
Cables
We recommend 12 gauge, stranded, pure copper wire, well terminated to high
quality spade lugs for any length run up to 50 feet [15 meters]. Heavier wire can be
used, of course, and for shorter runs, lighter wire is generally alright.
Note that the resistance, inductance and capacitance of “zip cord” are at least ten
times better than needed to avoid influence on the sound. Note also that if
hardware store wire is your thing, two parallel runs of more commonly available
16 gauge wire is about the same as 13 gauge, i.e., quite close to 12 gauge.
We offer well-made cables at a reasonable price. These are 12 gauge, heavy-
jacketed cables terminated to high grade connectors, made to last, and available
with a choice of several outer braid colors. They are amazingly flexible, as if from
a much lighter gauge, due to the fineness of the strands and the suppleness of the
jacketing. No other cable will produce better results with our speakers.
Power Cords
The power cord is for the bias supply that charges the electrostatic panel
membrane. Note that the supply in each speaker draws mains current of only
0.008 to 0.08 Ampere, depending on the mains voltage. The supply circuit is
unrelated to the signal path. The speakers have no susceptibility to airborne or
power line borne electrical interference.