I have used an FIM 880 for many years. I also have the Furutech NCF and Prior Furutech generation, Furutech GTD Rhodium, Oyaide R-1, Maestro, Furutech 101, PS audio PPP, and standard PS Audio outlets (blue).
I’ve been living with the Maestro for several months, and somehow my system sounds awry. There is a missing snap, crackle, pop to the music and while this may be a distortion, I’ve had the CDs for 30 years and heard them on various equipment, in different parts of the country, friends systems and dealer alike. And I would have to say that I prefer the FIM 880 over the Maestro, which strikes me as having a slight suck out in the upper mid range and the lower treble. Very minor - but audible. I think I’m going to reinstall my FIM 880. I don’t doubt the music sounds excellent, but there IS a slight loss of presence that is not merely from having a hyped up upper mid range and lower trip. I think the maestro truly has a very mild “BBC dip” and makes the music sound more genteel then it should. And it sounds lovely, but not as distinct in some ways as the maestro, not as three dimensional as the maestro and it definitely has less upper to lower bass power than the FIM. It took me quite a while to arrive at this conclusion. I wondered if I was hearing a quality to the music that was just too “polite. “ So what are the new super outlet these days?
Ye, a long thread, but an important one. 16 years old! Outlets have changed quite a bit since then and since they are the VERY first thing that the power cord encounters, we need to be very cognizant of any euphonic colorations, especially since the outlet will, to some degree, “color” the power cord.
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Wow - a twelve year old post comes back to life. Is that a record? |
I've been using a pair of these for about 5 years and have no complaints. They are a bit more reasonably priced than many audiophile outlets. |
I am normally very cynical about the hocus-pocus that I see online, but after spending enough on components to buy a decent new car, I broke down and bought an FIM 880. I was very amazed at the improvement that a simple outlet could immediately make -- the deeper bass and the greater dynamics made me sad that I had waited so long. For $80-$120, you cannot lose on this tweak.
KPS |
Yes, I've tried and have compared in my system both the Acme and Jena. The FIM still works best within my system. |
READ: http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?fcabl&1036812548
Also the last entry with other form sites on Audiogon. |
I use Vandersteen speakers model 2Ce and had a similar experience with ACME outlet. After test many differents outlets, my best combination was use de ACME outlet only for the CD player and use the Hubbel Hospital Grade ($14) for the Integrated Amplifier.The sound is natural, organic, warm, very clean and dinamic.
To better results I use dedicated lines, different phases and 4mm2 solid copper wires. |
Does everyone still like their FIM 880 outlets? I was reading in some recent audio asylum cable threads that some people prefer the new Jena Labs and Acme silver cryo'd outlets.Anyone ever do a comparison with these? |
The FIM #880 outlet I ordered finally arrived yesterday. I agree with Brianw, Garfish and others. I replaced one of my dedicated Hubbell outlets with the FIM 880, and what ever I plugged into the FIM outlet (including the Equ=Tech Q2) sounded great.
"Tonally, it added great resolve in the bottom end, the richness that Garfish also noticed, while increasing dynamics (both micro and macro). After installing the FIM, I also immediately noticed the naturalness that Garfish had mentioned, making female vocal especially involving." |
Hi Phil; I use Syn. Res. Master Couplers plugged into Acme silver plated outlets for the V5 subs. These are non-dedicated lines, but if I have the bucks this summer, I may have the Vand. 5 outlets dedicated. I didn't really A/B this combo and just use them based on my experience elsewhere. I want nice, tight, articulate bass. I hope you enjoy your V5s as much as I enjoy mine. Cheers. Craig |
Craig:
I think we've communicated before. I too have the Fives. Do you use the stock power cords for the subwoofers, or have you found something you like better?
Phil |
Yes, I will post the results but it will most likely be 5 or 6 weeks. The FIM just arrived today so I hope to install them both over the week end and take my stock non cyro Acme down to the "B" system. Thing is the outlets should most likey run in for 30 days before critical listening I would imagine. |
Blazter, I'm sure you will, but please post your test results here for us to read! Thanks... |
Acme now has their outlets cryo treated at Jena Labs. I have one of the stocks here now & find it to have a nice touch of added detail and tightness of bass w/o inherant brightness. However, after hearing about how much better people were doing w/ the cryo versions (same great detail, shorter burn in time, & sweeter mids) I recently purchased one of those as well as a new FIM outlet from GCAUDIO. THE FIM still has not arrived but Galen said they would ship soon. I plan on hooking one of these up to my dedicated line and run the PS Ausio UO HC from it to the amp then the other out of the "noraml" house wiring set up and plug my digital to it as is at first then via the two outlet Stealth from Audio MAgic. This will give me a chance to hear the Cryo version of the Acme as well as the FIM as is and then decide which may be better suited for the Stealth plug.I am also considering having the Leviton that comes w/ the Stealth replaced by the cryo Acme to keep it all silver. However, after reading this review I will keep an open mind on the idea that possibly the FIM maybe the better choice to have Jerry replace? All depends. I LIKE LOTS OF DETAIL! I am actually worried somewhat that the FIM may be too laid back but hey, I can always sell it here at Audiogon if it don't pan out. ;~) |
What wire is used for your source wire from the transformer to the panel, Badge? How about prior to there? Is it silver coated? |
Sherod; I am using SR X series ICs and they were a significant upgrade over the standard ICs-- especially noticeable in sound staging. I have not tried or heard the new X series speaker cables (or PCs), but that's something I will be considering as a future (potential) upgrade.
Badge; I agree that the copper tarnish is a potential problem, and I have no solution. My approach is philosophical I suppose. The outlets will tarnish very slowly and it may be that music quality will degrade slowly too-- but so slow it may be imperceptible. And as of now, I'd much rather enjoy the benefits of the sound quality of these outlets than listen with those that sound too bright to me.
When I had a dedicated AC system installed, I noted in the main breaker box that the heavy copper wire feeding the sub-main was a bit tarnished so I pulled it out cleaned it with a pocket knife and on re-clamping it, new copper was also exposed, and afterward I thought music sounded cleaner and clearer-- that big wire had been in place for about 25 years.
Finally, I also think that just unplugging and re-plugging will have the affect of exposing a cleaner contact surface-- others have noted this too-- and it wouldn't have to be done often. Finally, while these FIM outlets are exceptional sounding, even inexpensive copper based outlets, such as P&S hospital grade (about $10.), and audio-grade Hubbells @ two for $25. also sound good in my system too. I use Hubbells on my other components (until I get more FIMs;>).
I think, in my system at least, just removing the silver plated outlet may have been responsible for much of the improvement in music quality that I experienced. But really, I think it was both removal of the silver outlet, and addition of the copper based FIM that created the significant improvement in music quality.
As I've already noted in this thread, I think in some systems, silver plated outlets could perform beautifully. I have a "lousy" local power supply too (dirty and fluctuating) that may be greatly responsible for excess brightness, and the fast, pure silver just made it worse??? :( Cheers. Craig |
Two questions come to mind. One, the copper alloy will be softer and might not retain the grip desired. And, two, copper tarnishes as do most metals. Copper tarnish is a very poor conductor. Silver tarnishes, but the tarnish is an excellent conductor. Nickel plate does not tarnish. How do you handle the copper tarnish? |
This message is for Craig(Garfish)A little off the subject it may go to another thread.Anyway, I noticed in your bio and other threads that you have or are using Synergistic Research cables.I read recently that SR is offering effective 3/01/02 an inexpensive upgrade to the new "X" series i.e. active versions. I have a pr. of Signature 2 speaker cables which I was thinking of selling and upgrading to the reference level,but the new SR website says an upgrade to the x-series would make your current model superior to a non x-series reference model.Have you or anyone else with SR cables tried this new upgrade and what are the sound differences.I know they are throwing in a $50.00 power supply and they boast of the neat-looking cool blue lights, but is there a dramatic betterment of the sound.Anyone that's heard these new x-series cables please respond.Thanks Also the website is www.synergisticresearch.com .When you get in click the big blue X. They are currently revising their website so this is all you can get into for now.I think I see why so many dealers are trying to dump all the SR models at 1/2 price in order to make way for this new revolutionary X-series. |
Lak; I'm not "hands on" familiar with the Equi=Tech Q2, but it's my guess that any component will take on the sonic signature of whatever it's plugged into. If you want more warmth, richness, and fullness then the FIM 880 may do that. OTOH, if you want more speed, detail, and a brighter presentation, then the ACME silver plated job may be better.
But in either case, if you have a fairly high resolution system, I'd bet you'd certainly hear a difference in whichever you chose, and it would be up to you to decide which you prefer. Good Luck. Craig |
Would the FIM 880 outlet make an improvement for a power conditioner such as Equi=Tech Q2? |
Everyone,
We'd bought two Fim Audio Outlets for 20 amp dedicated lines and installed them in our system and after a long break in the change in nothing short of amazing. The music is smoother with more air, staging inprovements with no minuses.
We highly recommed this product as one of the most cost effective ($55*2+installation) changes for the system.
These were puchased at Galen Carol (NFI)
Al |
Craig and Bruce, thanks for sharing your experiences here. I am so glad both of you have found an outlet that seems to be the last word in terms of what you are looking for. When a system is at the level that yours are, such a product is truly a gift. Wresting the last bit of goodness from systems that seemingly cannot be improved upon.
I am currently breaking in a new pair of speakers, but once that is done, I should definitely give the FIM outlet a try in my new listening room. To be honest, I still have not gotten over the improvement the room itself has presented me.
Take care,
Joe |
Hi Rcrump; two years ago I had a dedicated AC system put in (copper Hubbell audio grade outlets) and initally it was much, much too bright with the stock power cords (maybe it just needed time to breakin?), so I auditioned (Redkiwi's advice) seven name brand power cords in the $200. to $1000. range. Of the seven, the Syn. Res. Master Couplers were the best of the bunch and they got rid of the brightness completely, and over time, I added them to all my components.
It was only in Oct. 2001 that I put in the Acme silver plated outlet for my amp, and as noted made several other system changes too-- it was difficult to sort out. Well, for my system anyway, the Acme was not a good choice. But I do not consider the SR Master Couplers to be inherently bright, in fact just the opposite, and I don't consider the Acme outlets to be inherently "bad"-- but in my system, they are too bright. The Acmes are very smooth, detailed, and fast and I would recommend them for a darkish, overly warm, or "slow sounding" system. I'm glad they work well for you. Cheers. Craig |
I have heard that the fim gold speaker cables are one of the most musically-right cables on the market.Very expensive and very stiff,so evaluations are crucial for system compatibility.My friend Galen likes this cable line a lot but he told me recently that most of his customers prefer Cardas.Personal preferences and system synergy matching obviously at work here.I have found being new again to the audiophile world again after being away from it for many years that with all cables( interconnects and speaker) you have to be very patient and allow a thourough break-in of these cables before passing judgement,even longer than the manufacturer recommends.I recently bought a pair of interconnects that sounded awful after a week of 24 hr. burn-in and completely transformed after that to become one of the best-sounding cables I have ever heard.Patience is indeed a virtue in today's hobby of auditioning high-end gear. Happy listening fellow audiophiles. |
Talk to Galen at www.gcaudio.com.Galen has been communicating closely lately with the FIM people and is being constantly updated on the outlet upgrades.As I understood Galen last week in our phone conversation the newest outlets have even more copper in them for an even better contact.Galen would prefer phone contact as he is usually too busy at his business to chat on-line.I ordered the new fim outlet from him last week.They should be arriving from factory in Ca. next Tues.for shipment.I have read from many sources that the fim outlet is far superior to any hospital-grade outlets available.( better sound and longevity).There are other fim distributors out there but I live in Texas and Galen is in Texas so I try to keep my dollars locally. |
I recently purchased FIM Gold speaker cables to replace my NBS Monitor I speaker cables. The FIM (after extended break-in) are superior in every way. The highs are very detailed, yet smooth (not bright), the midrange is grainless and voices are lifelike, the bass is awesome, deep and tight. The background is quieter than I ever heard before. These cables have a way of revealing all the infomation and yet have a "silky smooth" sound that truly has enhanced my listening experience. I am tempted to try the FIM Gold IC's and will look into their outlet as well. |
I've compared against the Acme and found the FIM superior. Tonally, it added great resolve in the bottom end, the richness that Garfish also noticed, while increasing dynamics (both micro and macro). After instaling the FIM, I also immediately noticed the naturalness that Garfish had mentioned, making female vocal especially involving. For the record: I use FIM Gold cabling throughout, with Tube Research electronics and JM Lab Mini Utopias (at this moment). Several years ago, I had installed a dedicated 100 Amp panel for my listening roomWhich is located on the back wall, center, with very short runs. I hope all this helps ... |
Hi Cornfedboy, I do not know. I have been told for years to stay away from nickel no matter what it is plated with. I can't do comparisons on such things. I will take your word on the ps audio. |
Garfish, your choice of power cords combined with the ACME outlets would likely scrape the paint off the walls in the upper midrange and can see why the FIMs were preferred..... I've had good luck with the ACME outlets here...... |
I haven't tried the PS Audio outlet but would like to-- I have Hubbells, Acme, hospital grade P&S, and now a FIM. Galen Carol's web site has a bunch of testimonial statements about how good the FIMs are though. Sure hope it's not true that they're discontinued.
Just speculation on my part, but I'd guess that amps may be more sensitive to outlet quality because they use the most power. I'm going to call Galen Carol on Monday, and maybe FIM. Thanks for the interest and comments. Craig |
Anyone ever compare the FIM to the Wattgate outlet? |
I feel the same, having used various other "audiophile grade" outlets, the FIM is the king. In the event of a fire, I'd save the Wife and Kids, the bottle of Balvenie, then the FIM outlets. I'd definitely need the Balvenie if that happened ... |
a question for brulee and a comment for all. first, do you sonically equate nickel plating of brass with silver plating? the reason i ask is because ps audio uses hubbells with nickel plating as their rebadged "power ports," which i find to be very good. my comment: i've heard from several sources that fim's wire and associated products are no longer being produced under winston ma's tradename (fim) and may not be available for very long under any name. -cfb |
Sherod; glad to hear that Galen Carol is carrying the FIM outlets-- I'll check his website. I've done business with him before and agree he is very pleasant to deal with.
Brulee; I'ts nice to see some others have had success with the FIM outlets. I think my neighborhood has a fairly lousy AC power supply, and I have to carefully avoid anything that has a tendency to be bright. Craig |
Hi Garfsh, I have been using the FIM Outlet for almost a year or when they first came out. I also heard a great improvement in sound. I was not sure if it was the FIM or just replacing old outlets. One reason I chose the FIM is because there is no silver, or nickel. Silver is something I will never put in my system ever again. Anywhere, anytime. Good to hear someone else thinks highly of these outlets. I'm happy for you Garfish. I have a few new toys I feel the same about. |
Galen Carol Audio will have them in stock this coming week for $55.oo.A bargain as within the last few weeks they have made even better improvements.www.gcaudio.com.Galen is a very friendly guy with many years of experience. |
Ligi; we were posting at the same time-- availability is noted above-- I got mine directly from FIM. Craig |
.......should also have noted. FIM outlets are available directly from FIM at www.fimpression.com ($70.) or www.eaudionet.com (an A'Gon dealer) for $60. Also, I'm in no way affiliated with FIM.
My only FIM outlet was put into a dedicated AC system to include Syn. Res. Master couplers. YMMV. BTW, I have copper based Hubbell outlets in my four other dedicated lines. I'm going to talk to FIM on Monday-- there may be more 880 outlets in my future. Is it possible to overdo a good thing? Craig |
Where did you buy the outlet? Hardware store, mail order....?????? |
Where did you buy the outlet? Hardware store, mail order....?????? |
