If you're going to experiment with power cables, I wouldn't bother trying to upgrade any component other than your amplifier first. I couldn't hear a difference when connecting audiophile power cables to any other component until I tested an updated amp cable, which draws the most power. (If you have a power conditioner, then upgrade its cable, then the amplifier next.) The Audience Forte F3 offers a clear upgrade over stock for a very reasonable price. When I later borrowed a Shunyata Theta NR from The Cable Company, that provided a clear upgrade over the F3 (at a higher price point). The benefits were (1) better dynamics and (2) lower noise. I used a decibel meter to check whether there was lower noise, and it was in fact measurable -- the background "hiss" with the volume up higher than normal listening volume was measurably lower. The noise reduction isn't dramatic, but all improvements add up in the end.
Power Cords/ Conditioner/Surge Protectors
Do I need to add power cords/conditioner/surge protector to my system or is it product dependent.
My current system consists of:
- Moon 390 network player
- Moon 761 amplifier
- Sonus Faber Sonetta V speakers
Should I use the stock power cords on the Moon equipment or look at new power cords? If new cords should be purchased let's hear some recommendations. Will the power cords change anything sonically?
Should I also add power conditioner/surge protector to the equipment? Again, does it change anything sonically? If recommended do you look at Shunyata, Panamax etc.
Thanks for your input/recommendations.