Pdreher,
If you're looking for a cheaper tweak to tide you over between Pythons, you might consider HiFi Tuning Supreme fuses for your amp and preamp...assuming you haven't already done this. To be perfectly honest, I think these fuses provide nearly as much bang as a power cord upgrade on some equipment and they only cost $50-$100 a fuse. A buddy of mine heard them in my system and then bought them for his VTL, D-amps and Maggies. He owns Shunyata cords as well and says the fuses are incredible when you compare the cost. Sorry about your Python jones though...you're probably hooked. ;-) |
I've had the Python CX on my Audio Aero Capitol CDP for about 12 hours or so. I'm very impressed with this cord. Dynamics have improved and there's more air and decay in the notes. Makes me want to add these to my amp and preamp, but my audio spending spree has me over budget, so it will have to wait. |
I'm jealous. I don't find break in to be a particularly enjoyable process. Look forward to hearing about your impressions. |
I just confirmed with the dealer that it has at least 400 hours on it. So I would think it will settle in nicely once I have it running for a week or so. |
Pdreher,
Per the folks at Shunyata, even previously broken in CX cords need to settle for a couple of days of continuous playing before they reach optimal performance levels. That said, I have bought a number of "demos" and it's worth inquiring if it was a cable that was "demo'd" once as a loaner or used constantly in the store. Often a loaner has no more than a couple of dozen hours on it. If they can't tell you an approximate number of days or weeks of use...you may still be facing break in.(sorry) These cables are nice out of the box but go through a really wretched phase between 50 -100 hours. And Guidocorona is right that they really don't reach maximum performance until 300 or so....some say even more...but it depends on the resolutuion of one's system.
I'm convinced some people are underwhelmed by power cords because they are too quick to assess. I recommend leaving them in one place for a week or two and then removing them. That will tell you everything you need to know. |
The Python CX I bought is a dealer demo, so it will probably be broken in. Planning on using it on my Audio Aero Capitol CDP. |
I concur with Vhiner. Initially, just break in the Python CX until it stabilizes... 100 HRS is a minimum. Not strictly necessary, but it would be great if you can do break in on a higher current device like an amp. I observed progressive beneficial changes on CX cords for about 1.5 to 2 weeks, for a total of about 300 hours. CX series power cords are generalists, in that at least in my system they appear to be equally suitable for low power and high power applications alike.... From CDPs (Esoteric X-01 Ltd) up to power amps (Rowland M312, M625).. It is a perfectly good idea to evaluate the cord initially on your CDP, and then contrast it with its effect on the preamplifier. There is no telling apriori on which device you will prefer Python CX. G. |
Pdreher,
You'll have to try both because every system is different. However, I and several people I know have had good luck starting with the digital front end. The cdp generates the most "noise" in most sytems. In case people haven't told you, you should really wait at least 100 hours before switching to another component. The cable takes a long time to break in and switching during this period can be very misleading. Please post what you hear and congrats on the new toy! |
just bought my first Shunyata power cable, the Python CX. I'm hopeful it will be an upgrade from my Cardas Golden Reference power cables.
Will the lone Python CX be best optimized on my CDP or preamp? |
Antonkk,
Per my consultations with Shunyata research, I run my amp directly into a seperate 20 amp line as opposed to running it through the Triton. If I did not have this 20 amp line, they would recommend running it through the Triton. I have a lot of $$ tied up in my system, so I use a Shunyata Guardian to protect it from Midwestern storms...if it degrades the sound a tiny bit, I think it's worth the sacrifice.
The Triton is in a completely different class from the Hydra. It removes so much grunge that I experience a 3-D effect when listening to many recordings. The bass and soundstage are much, much more realistic. Highs are free of much of the grain I heard with the Hydra....no hifi sibilance here...but neither is anything rolled off. It feels like Caelin has really hit the sweet spot with this one. BTW, I understand that Robert Harley has adopted it as his new reference and that a review is forthcoming. Wish my Thiels would play nicely with those NEMO's...nice gear. |
Vhiner, how does the Triton compare to the Hydra? Is it good for the power amps? I have Electrcompaniet NEMO monoblocks and I'm scared the Triton would compromise the dynamics. |
Oddeophile,
There's no doubt that the King Cobra is one-of-a-kind. I spent a couple of weeks comparing one with an Anaconda CX on my old Hydra to the wall. To me the KC provided a bit more bass and an even smoother top end than the Anaconda CX. Everything had a bit more weight. That said, I just couldn't justify the extra expense. Instead, I upgraded my Hydra to the new Triton conditioner. The money spent on that provided me with FAR more bang for my buck than a couple of extra King Cobra's. I just didn't think the added performance of the KC nearly justified $1500 more dollars. Of course that's just me and my system. YMMV. |
Hi, I am a newcomer to the Shunyata cable world, having just purchased my first Anaconda CX and receiving it about a week ago. I immediately placed an order with my dealer for 3 more Anaconda CX's and eventually (financially permitting) hoping to obtain 3 King Cobra's for the preamp, amp and incoming line from the wall to conditioner and then placing all Anaconda's on source components.
So far, even with one in the system I am extremely impressed. I am jumping up from my long time reference - PS Audio Premier SC cables which are silver/copper quad shielded. Immediately, the Anaconda buried the Premier SC so handily I was, and and still, shocked.
Curious with what folks have experienced with differences in the KC vs. Anaconda in terms of additional performance.
Odd |
After a bunch of experimenting with various generation Anacondas, the best combination I found is:
Anaconda CX from wall to V-Ray II;
Old Anaconda Alpha VX on my EMM cdp;
Anaconda Alpha Helixes on my preamp/headphone amp
and power amp. |
I use a V-Ray with Anagonda's in and out . This setup beat everything I dragged home to test . |
Vhiner: agreed!! and if you have a digital source, an Anaconda VX on it. |
Try a 20 amp Anaconda CX with any hydra on your front end...but only try this experiment if you have the cash. ;-) |
I do not use conditioners on my system, at least right now. The CX series cables alone are a worthwhile upgrade, and sound great with a rich, detailed, and expansive sountage. |
How does the v ray compare to Bybee conditioner. |
Holy chit man, I just got my new Shunyata Anaconda CX power cord, damn.
I was going to order the Python CX, however they were out of stock due to high demand and have a long backorders. The Python CX is the sweet spot in the new Shunyata lineup. I was offered the Anaconda CX as a substitute for the Python CX, for a reasonable price difference. So I jumped on it.
Compared to my long time reference cable, Neotech with pure OFCC connectors, which BTW, has stood the test of time against Nordost (non- Valhalla), HMS Reference, Silent Wire AC32, Harmonix Reference, Pangea (9 and 14), Hi-Def Audio custom Neotech NEP 3200 with Oyaide P-079 connectors. Both Neotechs had sounded the best on my system compared to everything else. The OEM Neotech I have is the one I keep in use everyday and have compared to the rest. You would not think much of the Neotech OEM; it does not look like much except for the thick black cable and very robust IEC connectors. The Hi-Def Audio Neotech cables sound almost as good, have a colored sheath, and have a more pronounced bass. The Shunyata Anaconda CX is even balanced and provides me with a soundstage that is very expansive. The subtle shades from cymbals, strings, and brass have more bite, not etched, but more of a natural tone. Voices just seem to float from a silent background with an uncanny realism. Surpisingly, the Anaconda CX is very flexible, more so than the Hi-Def Audio. I can feel a what seems like a 1" rubber covering inside the Anaconda CX cable and bending it is real easy, no real connection strain concerns.
Hey, I am not going to say these are the cables to beat for anyone else, because my system is totally modded to suit me, so, these are my evaluation notes for my system. I guess you could say these cables have allowed the tones I have heard previously to be more polished. I don't recall the Gypsy Kings sounding so much in the room and as alive as I have now with the Anaconda CX. These power cables have only 8 hours on them and that is what I am reporting, no etch, no boom, no pronounced frequency, just pure musical bliss. That is all I can say. The new Anaconda CX really gets out of the way of the music. Expect a full review from me later on.
Having run the gamut of power cables at different price points, I would like to add that price is not always a determinant to reach musical bliss. Hence, my OEM Neotech cables which have been my reference for years were not at a price point of any of the higher end name brand power cords I have tried, but priced higher than the Pangeas.
Ciao,
Audioquest4life |
As a scientist, I clearly appreciate Shunyata's technology. Quite frankly, they appear to have advanced Kimber's concepts beyond the $5.00 napkin stage.
I think I might want to audition them as well as Kimber's new 6000 series SC.
Truthfully, Shunyata's website is a paragon of clarity.
I suspect their cables may contend comparably. |
>>>How is Shunyata's technology really different from Kimber's?<<<
Ray makes great signal cables and offers real-world pricing. Hat's off, they
are fantastic products. However, outside of the color coding in some of the
cables and the fact there is a braid in both, there is zero similarity between
the two designs. I am sure each can be distinguished simply by viewing the
posted information on the respective web's.
Everything from the copper's CDA numbers, the cryo process, the
electromagnet process and the hand braiding, even the numbers of
conductors are all explained in detail on the Shunyata web.
>>>"Five bucks and an ink-stained napkin will get you a U.S. Patent so
don't hand me that one"<<<
Really? The patent for that specific signal geometry, which _has to be_ hand
wound belongs to physicist Tierry Budge. Another physicist, Caelin Gabriel
thought enough of it to License the patent, so you have two physicists
involved in bringing that specific tech to market. Now, whether the product
designs themselves are good, bad or indifferent each can judge, but the Helix
patent is not some frivolous "I just made Ma a new hair-net"
patent. The science is explainable, the info is available and there were no ink-
stained napkins involved. Most people that think signal or audio design
patents are cheap and easy to get and protect haven't gone through the
multi-year process to get them.
Regards,
Grant
Shunyata |
How is Shunyata's technology really different from Kimber's? Five bucks and an ink-stained napkin will get you a U.S. Patent so don't hand me that one.
Shunyata's technology looks awesome but it seems awfully similar to Kimber's.
Anyone compare the two? |
Dave-
I have both my Hydra 4 and 2 on HRS pucks and couplers with a HRS plate on top of the unit. This is an expensive but effective way to keep the Hydra's off the ground and made a big difference in sound dynamics. I also really like the dark cable elevators for the power cords. The combination of the two works for me. But Grant knows best....Paulythechef |
Rcrerar,
I have no affiliation with Shuyata except for being a loyal customer. The only inside track with Shunyata you'll ever need is Grant. He's a font of information and understands audio and audiophiles. It's great news that there's another price point in the Shunyata line that allows for relatively easy dressing of cables. I continue to be interested in anyone posting who's actually compared the Black Mamba cables with the Python CX.
In the old the Helix line, the Python Helix was 80 percent of the Anaconda and that was helpful information to have when considering a purchase. |
Thanks grant for your insight on the older python,really am enjoying what im hearing...unfotunatly just bought one used on agone and would have liked to try the mamba hc.In the future.Wondering what kind of footer you can recomend for hydra 4.got it on thick maple cutting board...but want to further it a bit....are the newer 4,s better now?copper,instead of silver.thanks dave. |
We do not have the info on the site yet but all of our dealers are aware of the change which is why Vance likely knows. I had posted this earlier but went back to edit and add content and lost the post. The web info is finished but has not been posted yet. Should be there next week.
We did have dealer and distributor feedback about the relative stiffness of the Viper and SideWinder models compared to our up-market CX cords. Based on feedback we opted to make a change. The new Black Mamba and Black Mamba HC (high-current) will go up slightly in price by $100, and $50 respectively over the SideWinder and Viper model cords.
The Black Mambas will have the appearance and flexibility of our other CX models. They are intended to form a system with the less expensive model on sources/pre's and the HC model intended for amps/distribution. Though either will function on any component they have an obvious cumulative effect when used together.
If anyone has follow up or specific questions they are free to contact us directly.
Regards,
Grant
Shunyata Research |
Vhiner where did you hear about the new Black Mamba CX cord? I have been to Shunyata's website and all over the internet and can't find any mention of this new cord, or the news that Shunyata is discontinuing the new Sidewinder and Viper CX cords already.Also what is a "HN"? Do you have some kind of inside track to Shunyata? |
There is one recently on SoundStage (this month) and upcoming in TAS and SP.
Regards,
Grant
|
Grant,
Thanks for the response...honest as always. It's why I keep returning to Shunyata. BTW, the stiffness issue was a deal breaker for me because of my rack and its arrangment. So, I'm glad to hear of the change. I'm still perplexed that we haven't see any substantial reviews of the CX line...it's certainly a leap forward. |
I'd love to hear from anyone whose heard the brand new Black Mambo CX and HN. I wonder if Shunyata had trouble selling the "stiff" Viper CX's and Sidewinder CX's... because they're being discontinued in favor of the Black Mambo series. |
Thank you Sherod, the remarkable thing about King Cobra CX is that it seems to yield a touch of 'romantic' spirit but without any of the overt euphony, imprecisions, glossing over, or bloat often associated with the word. . . . it feels like having the cake and eating it too. . . call it 'romantic neutrality'. . . or 'neutral romanticism'? Furthermore, the transparency, staging, imaging and dynamics of this cord is IMO well above the performance of the Anaconda Helix Alpha. . . . very likeable creature the King Cobra is, really! . . . Am I becoming perhaps an ophidiophile? (grins!) G. |
Guido,
Thanks for your thoughts on the new King Cobra CX. I currently have the Python CX and based on my experience with the previous versions of the Pythons, the new CX is a leap forward in better performance. You also hit it on the nose with the use of "romantic" in describing the sound. Apparently this romance is a signature of the new CX series. The Python CX, with a 9 gauge total conductor size, performs well on source components. I currently have it alternating on my preamp with other cords I'm experimenting with. Enjoy your new Shunyata cords. (o: |
I have been a fan of Shunyata PCs for a few years, and have owned Anaconda Helix Alpha and VX. I have recently tried the Shunyata King Cobra CX to my Rowland 312 power amplifier with excellent results. King Cobra CX appears to share the general character of graceful neutrality of the older Anaconda Helix Alpha, but is not affected by the Helix series slight propension to dampening micro and macro transients. On the contrary, KC has added authority to the system, while making micro transients more filigreed and delicious. The wire is as 'fluid' as the Helix series, but is more transparent and yields greater ambient cues than helix. King Cobra PC in my system appears to be very extended from top to bottom with superior harmonic exposure throughout the frequency range, and extremely high ability to retrieve ambient cues. . . which means that it is very synergistic with 312's creation of a large and very transparent tri-dimensional stage with well defined instrument images. It is perhaps the PCs I have tried this far with the most balanced ability of yielding treble information that is highly extended, structurally pertinent, and musically involving. The bass is rather deep and tuneful, but also quick and nimble. What is even more interesting is that while King Cobra has a large gage that in theory should make it ideal for high current applications only, such as a power amplifier, the wire appears to be a complete generalist: I have applied it successfully to my X-01 limited CD player , to the GamuT CD3 player, and to the Furutech ETP-309 power distributor with consistently desirable results. Only the JRDG criterion preamplifier appears to be somewhat immune to any PC changes, including KC. The eventual insertion of a total of 4 King Cobras into the system has had a result that has been incrementally positive. My analysis is ongoing, but this far I have not found a single position in the system or a musical genre that is at odds with Shunyata King Cobra CX.
Please note however, that if you were looking for a wire that added artificial treble 'sparkle' to a system, or that yield a euphonic midrange, or a slightly turgid bass. or which creates that over-emphatic fizzy PRAT. . you should look elsewhere.
KC is not even faintly etched and dry. Rather, it certainly is a powerful sounding wire, its extreme grace falls solidly on the neutral side of romantic, and I have not observed KC reinforcing any particular frequency range in my system.
At this point, the King Cobra CX appears to be consistent with my own sonic and musical preferences.
One last observation, like with most power cords, KC requires a good amount of break-in to give its best. . . it seems to stabilize in approximately 300 hours of music making. |
Hi!
Thanks :) I will test out two Pyhton CX for the amp and cd player, and keep the Brahma for the time beeing between the Thor and the wall. Brahma all the way will be too "bright".
Cheeers, ToffenG |
Toffeng:
Sorry, I forgot to answer your question.
I had Brahmas as well. They're also very dynamic, but -- from memory -- I'd say the Python is superior. I'd have to have them at the same time to be certain, to be fair, but that's my memory of them. |
Sherod:
I find the sound of percussion to be pretty dynamic on the CX series, but it depends on the preamp one has and whether or not it has considerable dynamics in the upper midrange. I had a King Cobra V2, which I re-bought last year (I missed it!) before I ever got the newer CX series cords. The CX is distinctly lower in noise, purer and "faster" without being "leaner" in sound. And the dynamics were superior on the newer CX series in the upper midrange.
I recently bought a Convergent preamp, but it's an earlier model (circa 1988) and the upper midrange of the Convergent from that area is lightweight in that area. I'd have to say from other equipment I've used that the dynamics in the upper midrange are good. A caveat here: my ASL Hurricanes have -- once again -- blown a resistor, and until they're repaired (next week), you need to take this with a grain of salt. I'd rather err on the side of caution here. It may be better than I've stated: the Hurricanes are extremely dynamic in all parts of the frequency spectrum, including the upper midrange. When I had my First Sound Deluxe Mk II preamp, and older models Shunyata (specifically, I used The King Cobra V2s on the amps, although Grant [Hi, Grant] expressed mild surprise I was using them on the amps [they were made for cd players and other front end equipment that had a harsh upper midrange, which the King Cobras "softened]), the dynamics, perhaps due to Nordosts' Quattro Fil interconnects, were quite good. Literally, the hair on my neck stood up, and, being Black, that's quite a feat! I remember, when I played Gaite Parisienne, which has considerable percussion, I never felt there was a lack of energy in that frequency. But again, I don't think the CAT is quite as dynamic there as the First Sound.
I will say that, when I, briefly, had the Parasound JC2 preamp, the dynamics were great, and I had the CX'es at that time. I quite like the CX Pythons. Someone on here (in another thread) asked me to take the Synergistic challenge -- so I did. I tried Synergistics' $2400 power cord. As I indicated in a different thread, in my system, the difference was slight, between the Synergistics cord and even the Shunyata CX Viper power cord. Maybe others have had different results, but those were mine. Frankly, I was pleased the difference was not a night and day thing.
I don't think one can go wrong with these at all, unless one is looking for a compensatory piece of equipment (warmer, richer, leaner or whatever) to fill in the gaps in other pieces of equipment.
I'll let you know how everything sounds when the 'Canes are repaired. Right now, they sound rather ordinary, and Hurricanes are NOT ordinary sounding. Ever. I can actually listen and be bored right now, where what SHOULD be happening is that I should be gripping the edge of the listening chair wondering if my woofers are going to blow. Oh, I've re-inserted the Hales Revelation 3s into the system, but I mainly used Usher 718s. NOT the BEs, I want to make clear, but the pre-beryllium/titanium garden variety tweeter. |
Hi!
I hope you all enjoyed your holidays :)
I have been experimenting with Quantum Qx4 lately, and experienced both advantages and disantvantages. Currently I run Nordost Thor and a Nordost Brahma into the wall using stock Burmester AC cords from the cd player and amp to the Thor. When testing out the Quantum, I borrowed a second Brahma. I connected it to the amp. The sound tightened up, but it got a little shear of edginess. So I think I need to use different power cords from my cd player and amp to the Thor.
I have been reccommended Shunyatas Python CX as AC cords. How do they compare to Nordost Brahma? I presume they can be used both on the integrated amp and the cd player.
The rest of my system is Burmester 051 amp, Burmester 061 cd player, Revox B77mk2 reel to reel, Wilson Sophia 2, Nodost Tyr interconnects and speakercables, etc.
Look forward to hearing back from you.
Cheeers, ToffenG |
Gbmcleod,
What's your opinion of the sound of percussion with the Python CX in the system? |
Gbmcleod,
While I haven't done any a/b comparisions while focusing on percussion, I have noticed that "rim shots" and "skin attack" on drum kits can be very pronounced probably due to the cx's abilitity to bring out detailed microdynamics...which depending upon the recording, is either exciting or a bit much. |
That's an interesting question, Gbmcleod. I have new interconnects just introduced to my system, so too many variables. I'm thinking that prior to adding the new interconnects cymbals might have been a bit soft-sounding, but until I get everything broken into the system, I'm not sure yet. I also have two other very good cords that I'll be substituting for the Python CX for comparison. Can you give us your impressions of the sound of percussion instruments in your system with the Python Cx? |
Hi Sherod:
Glad you guys are enjoying the CX series cords. I have a question now that there are others with the Python: how do you find it on percussion instruments? |
Sherod,
Couldn't have said it better! |
I have also read where more and more people are seeing the importance of a good power cord in their system. Some actually saying that it's more like a component upgrade. I have found that it is all a sum of its parts thing. The power cord is important, but it also helps to have clean power coming to that cord. The interconnects are also extremely important. Power cords and interconnects perform different functions, but they work together in a system's approach. So many variables are there to address when piecing a system together that gels just right, where the music flows naturally, unimpeded with a purity that makes us feel like we are soaring with the eagles when the music is playing. |
I think the ground is shifting on this topic..I've noticed a number of blogs by fairly respected hobbyists are concluding that power cords make a far more dramatic difference than interconnects in a high resolution system and that they can make as much difference as a component upgrade. The problem for reviewers is that power cords are so system dependent and that it's hard to recommend one cord over another. There's also the understandable prejudice that the last six feet of electricity can't possibly make a difference. All I can say is that you're right. Hearing is believing. |
Yes, the 3-D effect is one of the great new attributes of this new Python CX along with the wonderful depth, height and width in the soundstage. Dynamics( micro and macro) is another great attribute. The power cord continues to improve on my preamp with each day that passes, unravelling nuances unheard of through other power cords. I sure do feel sorry for those who feel that power cords don't make a difference. Man, are they missing out in this hobby. (o: |
I agree! There is a three-dimensionality that is downright spooky. |
I'm glad to hear that things worked out for you. The Python CX continues to smooth out with time. At this point, on my preamp, any over-emphasis of articulation is gone for me. Nothing but the music. Did I mention that female voices sound wonderful through this cord? (o: |
Sherod,
I put the CX on a hyper-break in course and burnt my conrad johnson in further. It's a perfect fit now. You're right about the soundstage! |
Vhiner,
I'm suspecting that although these new CX series seem to sound half-way decent upon first listen, they still require some time to smooth out. The first two weeks with mine was a tad too 'articulate", as you mentioned. I came close to taking it off the preamp a few days ago and trying it on the amp, but I hung tight and toughed it out some more and was soon rewarded for my patience. Going into my 3rd week with my Python CX it has continued to smooth out with a more refined, neutral character with a more natural articulation of notes. Female voices, especially, are very mesmerizing and enjoyable when listening with this cord. I'm also guessing that had I started the Python CX on my amp, the extra current would have helped expedite the break-in. Since the preamp is a lower current drawing component, the Python CX, with its large 9 gauge conductors, might take a month or so to fully flesh out. We'll see. One aspect I have also noted is that the soundstage with this new Python is HUGE! happy listening. (o: |
