spade connectors for speaker wire - how do I buy them?
 

I'm trying to buy spade connectors to terminate my speaker wire so I can connect to the audio surround receiver and speakers. My question is: do the spade connectors come in different sizes? I've been looking at connectors on partsexpress and they seem a bit small (i.e., that they won't fit around the terminal on the receiver and speaker). Also on parts express, they indicate "perfect for automotive, RV and marine".

http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showd...number=095-672

I'm guessing I need to match the gauge of my speaker, but are there different connectors for automotive/marine stuff vs. audio? The partsexpress description I guess is throwing me off a little. Bottom line, where can I find cheap but quality spades that'll fit my receiver & speaker???

Thanks a bunch!

There are different types of spades, probably mostly referring to the type of metal. Frankly, anything should be fine. But gold is the typical coating used for HT. It is good for almost anywhere since it won't corrode, hence the marine listing. Those look just fine. But if they don't fit, you can try vampirewire.com. That's where I had to get mine to fit my 10AWG wire. There are many sizes there.

My only addition is to be careful with "cheap" spades. Those usually have paper thin lugs that will break very easily.

Any reason not to go naked? I find spade lugs or bananan connectors great if you are plugging or unplugging a lot, but for me, rarely do I do that for speakers.

Copper oxidizes very easily. That's why I like a more solid connector, and I make sure the copper wire is covered with heatshrink or something. And, if using bare wire, you should probably tin the wire with solder anyway to make the connection a little more sound.

The #8 means they are intended to work with a number 8 screw, which has a certain diameter. You can buy spade lugs for at least #10, #12 as well. The 12-14 AWG refers to the wire gauge that fits properly at the back end. Both need to match your application.

I usually twist bare wire real tight, bend into a hook shape, and tin carefully with a soldering iron. Works fine, saves $$$. If you frequently disconnect/reconnect things, go with a proper terminal.

A bad connection can cause problems, but it is easier to get a good connection than Monster would lead you to believe, and at a much lower price.