Power Cords: A Skeptic Looking to Dabble...


Even though I am generally a skeptic when it comes to a lot of audiophile related things, I am curious enough to consider dabbling a bit in the coming months.

Here's my current system for reference:

(1) APC H15 Power Conditioner
(2) Pioneer Elite PD-D6-J SACD player
(3) Blue Jeans Cable LC-1 interconnect (6 feet)
(4) Yaqin MC-30L integrated amplifier (EL34 tube)
(5) Blue Jeans Cable Belden 5000 Series 10 AWG 5T00UP (7 feet)
(6) Focal 836v speakers

The SACD player and amplifier are plugged into the power conditioner (used primarily for surge protection) and all equipment is using the stock cords. The power cord on the power conditioner is a beast compared to everything else in the system.

I would be looking for recommendations new or used in the sub-$150 price range.

Is it reasonable to assume that a power cord could make a difference in my system at this price point? If so, which ones should I be considering? Also, please provide any reasoning and experience that you have with any recommendation.
mceljo

Showing 1 response by bigkidz

IMO you can change the sound of your system for much less by installing filter chokes in your components (CDP, Preamp) and by changing a few resistors. My current system uses belden molded end power cords and Walmart extension cable for speaker wire and while I agree that all this makes a difference, I change components so often that I would make myself crazy mixing and matching each time. My preamp has a selector switch that allows me to change the sound to add more resolution, emotion, air, etc., similar to what some people describe their cables doing. If you are looking for resolution, separation, better tone, air, etc., that is what your components should be providing and the last piece of the puzzle IMO are cables.

Happy Listening.