2. cables
  3. 147732-107843

Power - where to start? Mains, chords, conditioner, filter?

I have a decent HiFi setup with all power cables as delivered by the manufacturer of the unit. I am contemplating upgrading the power infrastructure, but is a confused where to start? What makes the biggest bang for the buck? Power chords to each unit, mains blocks, mains conditioner, mains filter? Any advice before I move into this world? 

I have a streamer from Innuos being used for Tidal and Internet radio. A DAC from RME and an integration amplifier from Musical Fidelity. 

I live in a flat in a capital and the electricity is probably good, but for sure the SQ is better late evenings, which to some extent is leading me down this route. 
mtraesbo
bigkidz
3,387 posts
 

Cleaning the AC has an impact on sound.  It takes away AC noise that creates the black background, helps with having a clearer sound (less smearing), more definition with bass, etc.  Too much AC cleansing also can hurt the sound where it becomes not as musical for example the piano does not have the wood of the box sound.  You have to try these things to see what you like.


Happy Listening. 

williewonka
3,075 posts
 
@dtximages - WRT...

Can you explain how this works and where it fits into the system?
Having never use one I cannot provide a difinitive answer, but from what I understand ...
  • plug the YETI into the wall
  • plug your components into the YETI
It seems to be part power generator and part UPS
- It generates clean sine wave power all the time
- if the power goes out it runs off the internal battery

Hope that helps - Steve
larry5729's avatar
larry5729
1,008 posts
 
I have a difficult time believing you can hear a SIGNIFICANT difference after spending $2,100 for power cords or for a $6,000 power conditioner.

You sure wouldn't be spending this kind of money on a receiver that retails for $3,200 would you?

You guy must have systems costing well over $100,000 for starters and have so much money you don't know what to do with it.  
inna
7,296 posts
 
I have a difficult time believing a conductor can hear everything that 100 musicians play, including how precisely their instruments are tuned. But he/she does.
$2100 power cord is what I have on my $1500 integrated amp and it is so much better than $800, $150, $17 and stock power cords.
inna
7,296 posts
 
To the OP. I would start with power cord on the integrated amp. It should be at least 12 gauge conductors, preferably 10 or 8. 
More to discover