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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
mt10425
1,138 posts
 
Mc-I would understand your question if someone let cables play on their own for a hundred hours then started listening. Memory might play some games. However, as I continuously listen through the break-in changes, I certainly can make sound distinctions. I also (probably with everyone else), have days when external power factors make things sound worse. I usually start thinking about resetting my speakers or tweak something. After checking the speakers with my laser pointer, I leave everything alone and in the evening (when less folks are on the grid) it sounds fine again. I hope you try some Cullen P/Cs for selfish reasons. They look interesting to me and I'd be intrigued by your observations. Good luck.
tbromgard
814 posts
 
IMO amps go directly into wall. Digital and phono pre amps seem to benefit the most with PCs. I had an eye opening experience trying Anticable's new Reference Level 3 cord. It made a significant improvement to the sound/music.
jp1208
502 posts
 
The power cord has made more of an improvement in my system than any other cable. $150 power cords made little improvements. I bought a BMI HH5 power cord and was stunned. There wasn't a doubt for a second at that point what really well made power cables are capable of.
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