2. cables
  3. 129095-4374

Looking at sub $200 power cables.

I’d like to upgrade my power cables if I can see a benefit at the $200ish and under price point in my setup:
-Yamaha 1060 AVR (used as preamp)
-Parasound A23 Halo
-Bluesound Node 2
-Furman 15i PC

I already have some decent interconnects and speaker wire so the power cords are the next place I can tweek. I’ve been reading a lot and it seems I would get my best results starting with my AVR. How important is it to swap the PC out for the Furman to the wall? I’ve been eyeballing some decent deals on Shunyata Venom 3 PCs. I can get 3 of them for around $320. How does the new Shunyata Venom 14 compare?

Is this a waste of money in my system? Should I skip the Node? I understand it’s subjective but appreciate any input.

Thanks.
asahitoro
ancaudio
28 posts
 
Dh Labs Power Plus is really the best value if you can go up to $240.00.  That cable will outperform most others that cost twice as much.
auxinput
2,920 posts
 

Just to put things into perspective for DIY cords, the DH Labs Power Plus cable can be bought for $8.00 per foot. The connectors on the pre-built DH Labs Power Plus cable are Wattgate IEC 320i ($24) and Wattgate 5266i ($16). All you need is a Phillips screw driver and wire cutters/strippers. Probably about $20-30 in tools.  The only thing that would be missing is the fancy tech-flex cover on the cable and the printed "DH Labs" heatshrink tubing over the cable.

http://www.silversonic.com/docs/reviews/AudioXpress_Pro_Studio_Power_Plus.pdf

The Wattgate connectors use brass conductors. The brass conductors have a very fast/strong current. This translates into very fast/clear music. The brass do have a tendancy to "push hard" on the voltage. This can cause a system to be too strong/fast and can push it over the edge into the solid-state/harsh/sterile area. The Wattgate brass connectors are very decent connectors for the money. However, be aware of their character. It may be good for compensating for systems that are very soft or laid back. It puts the "snap" and attack back into the system.

In my opinion, the Furutech gold/rhodium are much better conductors, depending on what you’re looking for. Gold plated if you want a smoother and more laid back sound (warmer). Rhodium plated if you want deep strong power punch bass and very high resolution in mids/highs.

verafiaudio
735 posts
 
May I please ask you to consider our new Core Power Tech Super Stroke Cables...

1.8 meters - $129 retail - $99 dollars for this site.

Best wishes,

Mark


klh007
621 posts
 
May I please ask you to consider our new Core Power Tech Super Stroke Cables...

1.8 meters - $129 retail - $99 dollars for this site.

Best wishes,

Mark

I have 3 of these Super Stroke cables on order from CPT, I'll be able to compare them to Mad Scientist NEO and Audience AU24SX. They look well built and use great materials, I'll post results after I get them. They are a no risk deal, money back guarantee for 30 days, hoping for a giant killer.
leotis
182 posts
 
Saw an expert panel video from RMAF and all the big boys were represented. They agreed that the PC is the most significant cable in a system. Surprised me a bit. I use Pangea 14SE for everything but my amps. For those I popped for some used Shunyata Pythons. The Shuntata to my Classe amp was the single most significant tweek I’ve ever done. (except the EquiTech conditioner, but I don’t call that a tweek.) Made the whole system sound like it cost 50% more than it did before. I was stunned. I’m told there are a lot better than the Shunyata out there for the price, but I don’t have the budget to prove it. Based on limited experience but extensive study, I decided Pangea is the bang for buck option. Obviously YMMV.
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