What was the first power cable that you noticed a difference in the sound?


I have bought six or seven different power cords, none over $500 and have noticed little or no change in the sound of my system. All the cables are 12 gauge or bigger.  Without talking about cables made with unobtainium, where did you start hear a difference.
 

Thanks.

128x128curiousjim

@curiousjim "I have bought six or seven different power cords, none over $500 and have noticed little or no change in the sound of my system"

correct! good quality equipment must supply sufficient power cable, some brands like Esoteric have “upgraded” power cable option available for extra charge. 

if someone can “hear” sound improvement after replacing power cable, before claiming power cable problem I would in details, for example what cable was replaced, outlet degradation issues etc. In many cases de-ox spray fixes contact issues, w/o changing need to replace cable.

My demonstrations for the following cables were performed in a local dealers showrooms. Since then I have owned and auditioned many different power cables.

My first experience was with Shunyata Research’s Black Momba power cable demonstrated on a Naim Audio Classic series seperates system. The Momba was powering the amplifier driving Thiel speakers.

My second experience was the Nordost Vahalla powering an Ayre Acoustic Ax-5 integrated amplifier driving Aerial 7T’ speakers.

In my system aftermarket power cables along with Synergistic Research Purple fuses considerably enhances the performance. ymmv

N

What I find really interesting is the number of times the subject of power cables comes up, and the response the subject seems to get every time.  This post is already on page 4.  And before someone points out that "you're reading it", yes I am because I'm always looking to find something new, but in the case of PCs it looks like there really is no new ground to cover.  Still, this is one subject that just gains traction every time the same question is raised.  Not sure what that says about us?  (me included) .

Hi @nutty 

Which would you say made the bigger difference, the Momba or the SR fuse?

Thanks.

With the exception of my DAC and a VTL power amp, none of my gear has IEC connectors for power cords.  Most of my amps are vintage SS and tube, but a few of the comments regarding power supply reserve as a way of reducing impact of power cords piqued my interest.  Has anyone here done research along those lines, whether measured or subjective?  Virtually all of the fixed power cords on the 60s/70s gear I have is 18 ga.