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Different Power Cords in same system - ok or bad?

I currently have a Transparent Audio Reference PowerIsolator power conditioner and a Transparent Reference Powerlink going from the conditioner to the outlet wall (it came with the power conditioner). I will soon be replacing the stock cords on all my components incrementally that will plug into the conditioner and wondered if it is recommended to go with all Transparent Power Cords or can I go with a different company such as Nordost, Shunyata, or Audience? I didn't know how important it was to keep this matched to my power conditioner and its dedicated cable. In case it matters, I DON'T have Transparent Audio speaker cables and interconnects. This is my only Transparent product thus far in my system. Thanks for your input.
djfst
mechans
3,048 posts
 
My opinion is that you can use whichever power cords you wish, except any that you shouldn't use regardless of brand. My system has a big mix of power cables which I think are appropriate for the equipment at hand. An example is that I like to use silver cables from my turntable, a smaller guage of copper for the CD player compared with heavier cables for the power amps. I am sure you get the picture. I think it works well. If I had money to burn I might consider a "loom" from one manufacturer but it would still be tailored to the gear it serves.
devilboy
1,176 posts
 
You've got to be kidding me.
djfst OP
169 posts
 
I should preface my question by asking those people who really want to help to only answer. A sarcastic sentence is wonderful help, Devilboy. If you could care less, please don't answer anymore.
ozzy's avatar
ozzy
7,542 posts
 
I think if all your equipment is from the same manufacturer and vintage then using all of the same cabling throughout is probably a good.
But once, that changes each component probably will react differently with different cables. At least that has been my experience.
mitch2
4,106 posts
 
I suspect Devilboy meant to say is, "Yes, it is ok to use different power cords in the same system."

With all the different factors that make up an audio system, including parts from many different manufacturers, feet and feet of transformer wire, different types of caps, hook-up wire, IECs, switches, etc. you are probably best off choosing whatever cables sound good to you. In a general sense, cable manufacturers sometimes have a house sound where certain cable lines for example provide more detail and speed in comparison to others that may provide more body and tonal density. But that doesn't mean using cables from only one manufacturer is going to give you a better sounding system.

The need to use cables from only one manufacturer is a pipe dream fabricated by people who fabricate cables when they are not smoking pipes. You no more need to use only one brand of cables than you would need to use electronics from only one manufacturer. IMO
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