2. tech-talk
  3. 964939974

Different & inconsistent sound quality

I am noticing different sound quality from my audio system, depending on when I listen to them. My system consists of Krell integrated amp, B&W CDM 1SE, and Sony DVP-7700. They are connected with Transparent ML Super interconnect and MIT T2 Biwire speaker cable. For example, in the moring and very late night, piano recordings sound very clean, detailed, and transparent, however, in late afternoon or evening, it seems that some of piano notes from the same CD sound very dull and veiled. The phenomenon is true of other recordings of cello, violin, and etc. I suspect that AC noise has to do with the problem, so as a first step, I consider upgrading stock power cord for my integrated amp to a better one such as Transparent PowerLink Super or others. Could anyone help me with any possible solutions to the problem I'm experiencing? Any suggestions or comments would be greatly appreciated.
jwminf9e7
audiolover
26 posts
 
I always wondered if it was just me or other people noticed the change is sound quality too. I knew I wasn't imagining it, but always wondered if the situation was common. Anyway, I use two of the Blue Circle Noise Hounds now, and have found much more consistent sound quality in my system. I had tried some power cords, which made some sonic differences, but did not make the sound any more consistent. Whereas the Noise Hounds made the system sound as good during the day as it does late at night. Thus, the hypothesis of noisy lines certainly seems believable to me.
sol322
426 posts
 
Definitely you have noisy power. PS 300 is not a cheap one. I suggest the dedicated line +ground separate and some power line conditioner. At least a HTS 2000 from Monster at 200.00 retail could be a fix if there's the 1000 I think versio cheaper but with less plug capabilities. Check monster site. Generally amps do better direct to wall so new power cord is a sound option.... Best with dedicated line. Regards
jwminf9e7 OP
1 posts
 
Thanks so much for responses. They were quite informative and helpful. I guess that power noise problem seems to be a more seious matter than I initially thought. I will look into all the suggestions and report back what happens. Thank you so much again!!
oatalay
12 posts
 
As well as dirty power lines, the outside noise seriously effect the backround blackness of sound. This noise can not be heared directly so we don't mind so much but if you check with dB meter in the night and afternoon, it is really so much. Also, I compared many power cables and I made some myself, eventually I found a magic power cord, sidewinder (www.powersnakes.com) This cable makes unbelieve differency on smoothness and blackness of the soundstage, give a try you will seee immediately (You may order long and cut to two or three without any problem)
pianoman's avatar
pianoman
4 posts
 
You might also consider the difference in your ear's sensitivity at those extreme times of the day. Your ears will naturally become less sensitive when the environment is noisy (loud). And then at night, or early morning, they can pick up the slightest details. Try wearing ear plugs for an hour or so, and then take them out to see what I mean.
More to discover