@kristofa:
The Cardas upgraded binding posts are copper with a + and - sign to indicate polarity. They tighten nicely with a wrench and hold the speaker cables securely. Being copper, they will always change color over time.
Have not had any paint flaking from the grills but suggest you contact Eric or Karma about this. The sound quality of Tektons is without reproach; the same cannot be said about his approach towards grills. I find this a minor issue and Eric was kind enough to send me two sets of grills because he knew my spaniels have a tendency to decorate large black boxes...