"Malcolm Stewart" wrote in
message .. .
I'm into amateur sound recordings using electret microphones. These
require a low voltage, ~ 2.2v, which is supplied by the camcorder or
Minidisc recorder via the signal lead. Consequently for low noise
recordings it is essential that the 3.5mm plugs and sockets between the
microphone and recorder aren't suffering from handling noise caused by
oxide on the contacts. Where possible I've obtained gold-plated plugs
from headphone leads, but the choice on offer* doesn't cover my precise
configuration, and I do get handling noise.
(*I've looked at CPC-Farnell, Maplin & RS websites recently.)

Try a Google on electroless gold. Used to do it ages ago on small microwave
assemblies.

John