How to Attach Spade 10 AWG Solid Copper

Here is a link to the video posted in response to the discussion in this thread. It has been authored by Rick Schultz, founder of Virtual Dynamics. A permanent link will be given later after it is uploaded onto the QnA section of his website. Have a look and tell me what you think.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJ5q9oA4Fzg

First off I think that too much of an issue is being made of this simple topic. There are obviously many ways one can make that type of connection. That said, I will comment on what Rick has shown in his video. Firstly you will notice that he also makes both a mechanical and chemical (soldered) connection, as I have advocated. Being that he is in business and needs to make $$$, he can't spend the time a DIY'er can on a single connection.

What he didn't do that he could have if he spent more time was.

1) Clean the solid core conductor before pre-tin.
2) Remove the plating on the spade so that the solder connects to the base metal and not the plating.

In all honesty he has made a fine connection but the sonic result will be inferior to my connection.

He uses too much solder inside that spade which the signal will inevitable pass thru. Yes, it will audibly degrade the sound. Second, the copper conductor never makes physical contact with the spade. What makes contact is the pre-tinned surface, the plated spade surface and the set screw. Plus, I am not a fan of using externally applied flux. Over time I have seen flux residue degrade the connection. I did not see him clean off any flux that may have oozed out.

In my connection, the bare copper makes direct contact with the base metal of the spade at the solder point. Plus makes direct metal to metal contact at the crimp portion.

If I really wanted to and at one time I was seriously thinking about it. I could turn the high end audio wire community onto some of the finest sounding wires available. I'm sitting on several interconnect and power cord designs that are superb. I do nothing about it because the market is already flooded with too much product.

If you think I'm full of myself and am just making an ego play, fine. But let me give you a little more background. I have taken apart dozens of high-end wires (very expensive ones too) to see what is inside. At first it was utter dis-belief at just how fraudulent these expensive wires designs truly are. Most are nothing more than unnecessary over use of insulation and shielding. Many are simply off the shelf wires cloaked in nylon tex-flex braiding. Now don't get me wrong, there are certainly many true high quality products out there that are innovative and honestly marketed. However, none of them are worth anywhere near the prices they command.

Enjoy your day.

bob

You know I have to agree, I no longer want to be one of those companies or products and I am trying to change but it is not easy. I have tried not to be, but you learn as you go. I myself have to admit some shamed of the audio cable community and what we have done to you, our customers. I think it is time for change and you, as our customers are the only ones to make it happen. Part of the problem is in customers not believing or knowing the truth of how we market or sell products. I am willing to come clean and explain to you why the cable industry is so messed up and where I think, as an audiophile who has been on both sides of the fence, we need to go from here.

First off I think that too much of an issue is being made of this simple topic. There are obviously many ways one can make that type of connection.

Agree completely.

In my connection, the bare copper makes direct contact with the base metal of the spade at the solder point.

Why not use copper spades? Do you also remove the plating at the spade to get connection of base metal with binding post?

I have taken apart dozens of high-end wires (very expensive ones too) to see what is inside. At first it was utter dis-belief at just how fraudulent these expensive wires designs truly are.

I have done this also and agree. Also have seen some substandard connector installations.