I started with trying out a couple of low priced power cables from a Chinese manufacturer a few years back. I heard a difference. I slowly have replaced every PC I could. All of these were purchased used. I hear a difference with my ears. I would love to run higher end cables and conditioners, but the reality is, I’m only willing to chase the “dragon” so far. I have other hobbies,and retirement is right around the corner. I am a firm believer in all these things matter,and make a difference.
If Power Cords Don't Matter...
First of all, I don’t own any high-end power cords, mostly because I can’t fit them behind my rack. Second, I am not trying to stir up controversy, as you will see from my question. I understand that the people who believe power cords make no difference argue that once the power gets into the component, the AC is converted to DC and the power supply of the component takes over completely. I think I have that right for the most part. So it that’s true, and it probably is from a traditional EE standpoint, why is it that I have not heard anyone say that power conditioners make no difference? I am not aware of anyone with a decent system ever saying that a Niagara or Triton or Audience teflon conditioner didn’t affect their sound, for good or for bad. So if the EE theory is true, wouldn’t power conditioners make no difference either? I have an Audience AR6T for almost 10 years and I think it made a big difference. BTW - I am not talking about Power Plants, which deal with voltage stabilization, which is a different topic. Obviously, if your AC voltage is way off, it's going to cause problems.