Connectors such as banana plugs and cable lugs (spades) form the contact between the speaker cable and the terminals of amplifier and speaker.
Why good connectors?
The best cable cross-section is of little use if the contact wobbles at the end. Banana plugs and spades provide a large-area, firm and repeatable connection at the terminals – quickly plugged in, securely fixed, and without loose strands of wire that risk a short circuit. They're the small, often underestimated link that turns a good cable into a reliable connection.
What matters
What matters is the right type (banana plug or spade), a secure fit on your terminals, and a clean connection to the cable – soldered, crimped or screwed. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil we take a look at your connection terminals and, on request, fit the connectors professionally to your speaker cable right away. That way everything fits together in the end, instead of you wrestling with loose strands at home.
Who it's for – and straight talk
For anyone who wants to connect their speakers cleanly and with a secure contact – from the first hookup of new speakers to retrofitting old, bare strands with proper connectors.
Straight talk: connectors are no sonic miracle, but a gain in safety and convenience. A good contact prevents wobbling and makes swapping cables easier. Gold-plated contacts mainly protect against corrosion. We make sure the type matches your terminals, instead of selling you the most expensive option.
Verdict: the right type, a secure fit, a clean cable connection – then the connection sits rock solid. Bring your cable along, or order both together, and we'll terminate the ends to fit.
Frequently asked questions
Banana plug or spade – which is better?
Both are very good; it depends on your terminals. Banana plugs are inserted into the opening of the terminal and are easy to swap, spades are screwed under the terminal and sit especially firmly. We recommend the type that matches your terminals.
Why use connectors at all instead of bare wire?
Bare, twisted strands tend towards loose contacts and stray individual wires that can cause a short circuit. Connectors provide a large-area, firm contact and easy swapping. Especially with thick cable, they're the cleaner solution.
Will the connectors fit my terminals?
Most HiFi terminals accept banana plugs or spades, but there are exceptions and different sizes. Tell us your amplifier and speakers, or show us the terminals, and we'll match the right connectors.
How are the connectors fitted?
Depending on the type, they're soldered, crimped or screwed on. Fitted cleanly, they provide a lastingly good contact. We're happy to take care of the professional fitting to your speaker cable, so the result is right.
Are gold-plated contacts worth it?
Gold plating protects the contact surface against corrosion and keeps the transition resistance low over the years – a sensible, practical benefit. It's not a sonic miracle. We choose solid, durable connectors to match your cable.
Why buy connectors at HD Zürisee?
Because we determine the right type for your terminals and, on request, fit the connectors professionally to the cable right away. That way the connection sits securely and you avoid the fiddling. We advise you personally and deliver throughout Switzerland – free shipping from CHF 190.
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