Power Cord Question

I think what you're looking at is a C7 socket/connector. (The 3-prong is called an IEC.) A few cable companies make cords terminated with a C7--PS Audio is one example (though I'm not necessarily endorsing that product). Visit a site like Audio Advisor and see if the photos match what's on the back of your units.

Kudos to Twoleftears and Musicnoise. Here is another info link > http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEC_connector As the right honorable Krell_Man suggests, better power cords can improve your results. And don't forget conditioning. The fact that you have already purchased upgraded power cords indicates you are far more knowledgeable than you give yourself credit for. Good listening.........

These adapters may be what you need.
http://www.takefiveaudio.com/mall/shopexd.asp?id=275#
Also available without cryogenic treatment though I haven't tried those.

Can these 3-prong power cords be used to plug into the rear of components having only 2-prong connectors in the rear without hurting anything or degrading the sound?

If the power cord female IEC connector fits the male connector on the equipment, go for it. Depending on the make-up of the power cord, that will determine the sound change of the equipment it will be used on for better or worse. As for the safety equipment grounding conductor, with-in the cord, it will work slightly as a shield beings it is connected only by the plug and wall receptacle it is plugged into.

My NAD C372 integrated amp has a two prong receptacle on the rear panel but the new power cords use a three prong female ends, thus my question. I find it strange that my audio components use detachable power cords with two prong receptacles: NAD C372 intagrated-amp, Marantz CC4001 CD changer and OPPO DV980H, but my LG LCD TV uses a three prong receptacle for its detachable power cord.

Many manufactures of audio equipment are building their equipment this way. Because of potential ground loop hum problems manufactures are using double insulated AC power wiring instead of having to use the safety equipment grounding method.

With doubled insulated AC power wiring the metal case of the equipment is floating and does not need the use of the safety equipment ground. Jmho eventually all audio equipment will be built this way.

To clarify, the receptacles on the back of my components look like and are in the same shape as the IEC type but are only of the two prong variety. I didn't realize there was such a two pronged beast until I just happened to look. Like I mentioned above, I was surprised that my TV has a three prong IEC receptacle but my audio components come with a two prong version. I am also familiar with the smaller figure eight type and C7 type plugs. I actually have an older CD player with the C7 type (flat on one side). According to Musicnoise in his above statement, the third prong of an IEC power cord is only a ground and shouldn't degrade the sound or cause any damage by making this connection in a two prong IEC styled receptacle with a three prong female end of a detachable power cord. Hey, this is nice to be surrounded by such knowledge!