"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.)

Can anyone recommend a UK based gold plating service which might be able
to plate the nickel(?) coated plugs and sockets which I can obtain easily.
And at a reasonable price for very small numbers.

Thanks in adavance


Many thanks for all the suggestions. Company names (which didn't turn up in
my Google search) etc. have been noted.

The handling noise only occurs occasionally and is not caused by the Yoga
electret microphone cables (I've just checked this specifically.) I do have
an XLR connector lying around and it's about 1/3 the size of my Minidisc
recorder, so not really suitable for this application.

I've tried applying a drop of Electrolube switch-cleaner to the noisy
connectors, and after being exercised for a short time, the handling noise
disappears. Period. However, I expect it will be back when the chemical
has dried out, so gold plating would probably be the long term answer.
There's no audible noise from gold-plated plug contact against gold plated
socket.

--
M Stewart
Milton Keynes, UK



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