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PCs - Differences between Valhalla and Dream?

I'm currently using a Stealth Dream preamp power cord on my power amp, but am interested in trying a Valhalla power cord on the amp because of the apparent similarities in sound. What I'm specifically looking for is the speed and tonal accuracy of the Dream, but with a more open sound. Short version of long story, I can't use a Stealth Dream "Power" power cord on my amp, so I'm relegated to a "Preamp" version. I notice the sound to the amp is restricted with the preamp cord versus when the "power" version was in place.

I'm concerned about the Valhalla's reputation of sounding thin, however. I like speed and detail, but "thin" can get fatiguing quickly. OTOH, I've heard dealers say that the Valhalla interconnects and power cords are not thin, and that the reputation for being thin comes from the speaker cables.

Can anyone offer a comparison of the Stealth Dream power cords and the Valhalla? I expect they'll be similar, but understanding specific differences between the cords would be most helpful.

Thanks!
H
aggielaw

Showing 2 responses by jmcgrogan2

jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Hi Howard,

I have owned both of these cords. As you probably know, I preffered the Dream. IMHO it was one of the fastest power cords on the market, yet always seemed to sound musical.

My experience with the Nordost Valhalla power cords was two-fold. My initial impressions were stunning, I felt that it blew away every cord I'd ever heard, by a large margin. However, I noticed after several months that I was listening less and less as listener fatigue was setting in earlier and earlier. Too much information if you will. I tended to listen to the glasses clinking in the background, and all of the other details I'd never heard before, and stopped listening to the music......and yes, I would say that after a couple of months, I could hear the 'thinness' that has been the knock on the Valhalla. I suppose the in a darker system the Valhalla may beat the Dream.

If I had to choose a cord to demo my system for others, I'd choose the Valhalla, it will definitely impress. If I had to choose one to live with long term, I'd go with the Dream. Maybe you could trade your Preamp Dream with someone whose on the other side of the fence as you, and using a Power Dream on his preamp.

I am curious though Howard, after such a good review on the Fusion Enchanter, which is alledgedly a high current power cord, why not put the Enchanter on your amp and the preamp Dream on your preamp?
Never mind, I just checked your system and I see that you do not own a preamp. Still you may be able to trade your Preamp Dream for a Power Dream.

Cheers,
John
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Howard,

It will take you a while to sort things out for sure. I've always found it difficult to make so many changes at once, as it's tough to say which change affected the sound the most, for better, worse, or just different. I think you'll find the Rapture's more powerful and lively than the Silkworms though.

Let me know what you think if you try the Valhalla cord vs. the Stealth Dream. I know I preffered the Dream, but system synergy and personal tastes mean so much here that I'm sure others will prefer the Valhalla.

Cheers,
John
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