Yes, better power cables on subwoofers absolutely make a difference.
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Are upgraded power cables for subwoofers worth it?
I recently have been filling in all of the holes in my secondary system. Recently picked up a shunyata power conditioner, upgraded speaker cables, and power cable for my amplifier.
My question is, is it worth running higher end audiophile power cables with subwoofers, considering distortion is not as apparent to the human ear in the sub bass range? I use a high end receiver for my DAC in this system with a normal power cable as well. Would I get better performance increase from upgrading sub cables or my DAC(receiver w pre outs) power cable?
Any specific suggestions for sub power cables, or DAC power cables that are inexpensive (sub 200 or even $100)
Thanks for your time!
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- 39 posts total
Whatever power cord you use, make sure the wire gauge is big enough for the current draw of the sub’s amplifier (12awg should be fine), the connectors make good contact and fit snugly in the duplex, and the cable is shielded to reduce noise (although not necessarily a requirement if you don’t have a noise issue). You can get this done for as little as $100 or less, with something like this one, or even this one. Here is one that you could construct as a DIY project using a typical Hubble plug and IEC. You should be able to find that cable by the foot. |
Although it is possible to have a slight improvement with upgraded power cords on subwoofers its most likely not worth the trouble or expense. Your money is better spent on something else. I speak from experience because I've done the upgrade. In my case I needed much longer power cords for the pair of subwoofers in order to reach the AC outlet. |
When I asked REL about this, they explained that they didn’t expect it to make a difference, because the subs, unlike most speakers, were self-powered and not passive; but they went ahead and tried a variety of cords and found no measurable or listenable effect. They said that the only reason a power cord would make a difference on a sub is if it's too small to pass the needed current. Their cords pass the needed current, so no improvement was expected and none were observed. I went ahead and tried with my own sub many times and could not hear a difference. So, there’s REL making an engineering-theory based argument, plus their trial, plus my trials. Surely, everyone can listen for themselves but there’s always the danger of placebo effect. To each his own in this hobby. |
- 39 posts total