Almost every manufacturer uses golden connectors. Why is that?
Gold plugs are hard to miss in the world of audio technology: Whether for headphones, speaker cables or other audio cables, most manufacturers use a shiny gold coating. But are these connections really better, or is it more of a placebo in terms of sound?
Find out in this article:
- Why almost every manufacturer uses gold-plated connectors
- The pros and cons of gold over copper or silver
- Why the oft-cited ‘better sound quality’ is a myth
Corrosion protection as the main reason
The most important point first: Gold hardly reacts with its environment and therefore does not corrode. This protects the contact surfaces from rust and oxidation. Copper and silver may be more conductive, but they tend to oxidise. Even the smallest patches of rust can affect signal transmission and cause audible interference.
Long-term stability and reliability
Gold is not only corrosion resistant, it is also relatively abrasion resistant. This means that the connection between the plug and socket will remain good for a long time. In a professional studio environment or for hi-fi enthusiasts, this can make all the difference in avoiding contact problems.
Practical benefits at a glance:
- Long-term stability: Less wear and tear from frequent plugging and unplugging
- Reliable signal transmission: Reduced risk of loose connections
- Resistant surface: Protection from scratches and corrosion
Gold and sound quality: myth or reality?
Many audiophiles are convinced that gold plugs provide a ‘better’ or ‘purer’ sound. From a physical point of view, however, this is a myth. Although gold is a very good conductor, it is actually outperformed by copper or silver in terms of conductivity.
In fact, the minimal difference in conductivity is barely noticeable in conventional audio cables. The gold coating is mainly used for corrosion protection and plays a minor role in the actual sound quality.
Conclusion: Gold plugs – yes or no?
- Corrosion protection: Gold prevents rust and ensures a durable connection.
- Sound: There is usually no audible difference.
- Durability: The gold coating protects against wear and contact problems.
So if your main concern is trouble-free signal transmission over a long period of time, gold plugs are a good choice. However, you should not expect an objectively ‘better’ sound.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Are golden connectors just a marketing gimmick?
Not quite. The gold plating actually protects against corrosion and increases durability. However, there is no evidence of a direct sonic benefit. - Should I prefer cables with golden connectors?
If you want to be on the safe side and value robustness and long-term stability, yes. But for occasional use, other metals are fine. - How should I care about my headphone plugs?
Make sure the contact surface is clean and avoid moisture and dirt. If necessary, you can wipe the plug with a soft cloth.
In short, gold-plated headphone plugs are ‘better’ mainly because they do not rust and provide a long-lasting, stable connection. However, there is no evidence of a noticeably better sound quality compared to other metals.
Examples of headphones with gold plugs:
→ Wired in-ears: Sennheiser IE 200
→ Wired on-ears: Koss Porta Pro Classic
→ Wired over-ears: Superlux HD330Pro
