What connector is appropriate for a 500V electrostatic speaker

audioconnectorspeakers

A research group just bought an electrostatic speaker that came with a long cable that is meant to be soldered to the speaker wires. However it would be more convenient to have a connector(s) there. There are 3 wires (+ shielding): audio negative, audio positive (500V peak to peak) and bias voltage (450V). Given the high voltage (but low currents 0.25A), I'm not sure what connector would be appropriate. I doubt typical audio connectors would be rated for 500V. I'd also prefer something that locks and cannot be touched. I was thinking XLR because of phantom power, but I couldn't really find specific voltage ratings… Any suggestions, references, comments?

Edit: Manufacturer said anything rated for 115 W is more than enough. (I added the max current for the speaker above.) I learned about Paschen's Law (for spark risk in air) and calculated that I'm ok with pins spaced by 0.1 mm or more. Whatever insulation is used in the connector, I assume it's at least as good as air… But I'd still rather use something rated for 450V if someone has a suggestion.

Best Answer

Phantom power, as I understand it, runs at about 48VDC, max, and XLRs aren't rated to stand off 500 volts, so that's not a viable solution.

If you need frequent connection and disconnection, my druthers would be to opt for terminal blocks on the speakers which would accept the stripped and twisted ends of the cables.

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