2. cables
  3. 1363594803

Impressed by Pangea Audio AC-9SE

I have been using Lamm monoblocks with Kimber PK10 Palladian for years. The PK10 Palladian are great sounding power cable and can stand the test of time.

Lately I ran across some threads about the Pangea Audio AC-9 and AC-9SE power cables. Lots of folks raved about these cables here in Audiogon. The SE sells for $200/2m each at Audio Advisor with 30-day trial. I thought I got nothing to loose and want to find out what all the hypes about these cables. I ordered the SE version.

I was totally surprised that the AC-9SE sounded very close to the Kimber. The main difference is that the AC-9SE sounded a bit thicker and a tiny bit more punch in the bass than the KImber. The PK-10 Palladian was just a tad more air on top. The $200 AC-9SE competes toe-to-toe witht the $1000 Kimber. Amazing. In fact, the thicker sounding AC-9SE matches a bit better than the Kimber in my upgraded system. Talking about synergy here.

I recommend folks who have modest or even megabuck system should try out the AC-9SE. Don't let the low price fool you. You may be surprised.

Happy listening.
audiolui

Showing 3 responses by rhljazz

rhljazz
1,255 posts
 
I'm using an AC9SE between my VAC amp and a Shunyata Triton. It replaced a Nordost Brahma. The AC9SE did not sound very good straight out of the box (no highs, no lows, and recessed). It required some break-in time of around 20 hrs. Compared to the Brahma, it's actually better top and bottom, a bit leaner through the lower midrange.

Yeah, then there is that big price difference. I too have wondered what the AC14SE would sound like on the preamp, but then there is that break-in time.
rhljazz
1,255 posts
 
Audiolui,
Perhaps the difference in break-in perception is due the type of amp it is first connected to. I purchased the 9SE when my summer system was set up. So, at that time it was connected to a W4S class D amp which likely presents a different load than a conventional amp or tube amp. Right now it is connected to the tube amp.
rhljazz
1,255 posts
 
Audiolui,
My cable has many hundreds of hours on it now and I like it in this application. As I recall, it took at least 15 hours before there was any change towards the better.
More to discover