Silver plated copper

Many topics in science use the word "theory."


It does not mean unproven. It means there is an explanatory model.


For instance, the "theory" of gravity. It is not up for ephemeral debate, nor is the "theory" of relativity or flight. While both the theory of gravity and relativity continue to be improved upon, they are the equivalent of "scientific fact."


However, going back to skin effect, it is real but I’ve never seen any models which explain why this would matter at audio frequencies with common conductor sizes.


Best,

E

There is the theory that much of the audio signal - I.e., the electromagnetic wave - travels outside the conductor which, if true, could explain why the skin effect is audible at audio frequencies. 

Personally, I think it's hooey. :)


The silver coating on the copper is barely there, but commands a major premium in price.


Personally, at least for interconnects, I buy pure silver cables and make my own, and stick to pure copper for speakers.


As I've mentioned, I've used silver plated copper in speaker cables. And, with ZERO explanatory theory, it was not better. In fact it was worse. For days, and then finally as good as copper.


I have no model or theory to explain this.

Explanation: it was installed in the wrong direction. 😬

Good afternoon, I queried Nordost as to their derision to use silver plated conductors. Here is their response. 

We use silver plated copper on all of our conductors. The reason main reason is copper is a porous material and if you look at it under a magnifying glass you will see pits in the surface. Coating it with silver fills in all the pits and provides a surface better suited for signal transmission.

In our opinion you want the signal to travel as fast as possible to avoid changes. Especially in Norse level products where mono-filament technology is employed you have created the ability for the signal to travel faster because the dielectric is suspended off the conductor. Now in addition you have a better surface for the signal to flow as well.