bananas or spades?


I'm shopping around for cables, lately, especially here on Audiogon. I noticed, that most cables come with spades instaed of bananas. I would prefer bananas, however, because I simply find it more convenient. Wondering, if there are any audible differences and if so, which connector type is the better one?
Thanks
- Joern
pipetman
There may be some audible differences between spade lugs and bananna plugs. My personal opinion on this subject is that you should go with the spades because they give you a superior mechanical connection to your amp and/or speaker. Good luck with your choice and happy listening.
I think the real thing to look for is a connector that fastens the best to your amp and speakers. Whether spade or something else, the connector should be soldered well, and then that solder joint should have a protective, air tight rubber shrink-wrap. Most audio stores will terminate the cable with any connector you want, but personally I like the spade connection.
You get what you pay for. If you buy "generic" banana's or spades, that's what you get. In other words, a good quality locking banana will give a more secure, lower resistance connection than a low grade, small sized spade. The reverse is also true. As such, good quality locking bananas are NOT cheap compared to a spade of the same quality. While bananas are more versatile, using even just a "decent" spade will typically beat just about any non-locking banana in terms of low resistance and contact area. Sean
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