Do power supply units/cables make a difference in sound quality?


My system is plugged in via a heavy duty power strip into a wall socket.  (Horrors!). I have read many posts from folks who have invested $$$ in power supply units and cables.  Before I take a deep dive into that, I'd like to hear from folks pro or con on this subject.  My system consists of Magneplanar MG3rs, Nelson Pass Threshold 400 amp, Conrad Johnson recent premier preamp, Oracle TT with Koetsu Black, Bluos Node streamer, Classe Audio CDP-102 CD Player.  I am quite happy with the sound from all sources.  So am I in for another four figure expense with power supply?  I appreciate the experience of this forum's members.

baumwoll

Lots of smart folks offering opinions. I'm in the same throes debating whether to add something other than the Furman ELITE15 PF i Linear Filtering AC Power Conditioner that I own. Before I dive into a more expensive component, I'm having a dedicated line installed from my main panel to my stereo system. I also purchased a "Silver Cryo Receptacle" so the cost will be a few hundred dollars. I've talked with a few audiophiles that confirm, it is an inexpensive step to do before shelling out thousands for a power plant, conditioner, etc. that may/may not help. 

“I am quite happy with the sound from all sources”

^Your answer^

I wouldn’t buy the cables. 

As you can see, some say yes and some say no. The only way you can come to any conclusion is to try it yourself. Personally I found that some power conditioners can adversely effect SQ and that spending big bucks on power cable is a waste of money. There are many cables around $100 that will do the job admirably.

Indeed. That is my conclusion.  I will invest in a new cartridge for my turntable.  I think the Koetsu has worn down.  That will make a hearable difference playing records. Thanks all who took the time and trouble to answer my question.

@baumwoll For nearly 25+ years, I never felt the need to change power cords, fuses, interconnects, add power conditioners to "improve" the sound from my audio system. @jasonbourne52 pretty much summarized the technical reasons behind why such changes don't make a difference.

 

Electronic components have built-in power supplies that controls the DC voltage/current ultimately responsible for driving electronic components in the audio path. Some components have multiple power supplies with well regulated for fluctuations in the AC supply. This is not rocket science anymore, but well established design concepts of audio gear.  Adding power conditioners, changing power cords/fuses won't make an iota of a difference. Same goes with cables and interconnect where most commercially available at "reasonable prices" can get the job done. I have Kimber 8TC as speaker cables. All the components are plugged into surge protectors with power amp having its very own. So don't fall for marketing gimmicks and save your money