2. amps-preamps
  3. 189762-53619

New expensive power cord for amp and no change in sound?

I bought new an expensive(for me) well known and reviewed power cord for my very good amp and plugged it directly onto the wall socket. After a couple of weeks of daily use I hear no change in the sound quality from a $500 cord. I don’t want to name it for fear of getting my thread deleted. You would know it or at least be aware of the company. Did I throw away several thousand dollars? Before I get the snake oil answer I want to let you know that I bought an upgraded cord for my pre as suggested by the pre’s manufacturer and am pleased with the results.

I guess for full disclosure the amp’s manufacturer said don’t bother. But I had had good luck with the pre so I thought it would be a good idea.

Anybody else have this happen to them?

roxy1927
mihorn
517 posts
 
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Please visit my room (#272) at THE SHOW 2024, OC. Costa Mesa audio show on June 9-11. I promise you’ll meet many members.

Unlike other rooms which talking and music don’t mix (un-natural sound), my room is full of conversation (natural sound music) like a live band cafe. Alex/WTA

biglou13
37 posts
 

Sell it and move on .

gryphongryph
384 posts
 

Your amp is not mid fi, it is high end, and I think if the amp is technically well constructed and you use a well constructed cable, could be $50-$100 in price depending on enclosure, your amp should sound at its 100%!
If the amp is changing sound signature because of a cable, be it $100 or $5000 then something is wrong with that amp in my opinion.

And I don’t think anyone can hear a difference in a well constructed cable, be it $100 or $5000 in a double blind test.

And saying that one’s ears or system is not good enough (resolving) is just stupid.

I have listened to very resolving systems and these systems mostly can only play the so-called AudioPhile CD’s and one can only listen for a short while before one has to leave the room feeling tired of the sound.

I am not saying that cables are not important, but mostly they just have to be the right length and well made technically and to suit your system, no need to go crazy money vise.

Sometimes I see systems where the cabling cost more than the system! Which just doesn’t make sense, but it’s a free world, so each to his own 👍🏻

skinzy's avatar
skinzy
187 posts
 

I just upgraded all the cables in my system and a new power conditioner.  Spent about $20K.  I would describe the sonic benefit as marginal.  Instead of buying expensive cables I would save my money and buy better speakers.  That's where major improvements can be had.

elliottbnewcombjr
5,521 posts
 

It might have the same ’sound’ as the fuse, here’s slo blo 3 amp, for a 30 wpc tube amp.

https://www.google.com/shopping/product/7245096972818027189?q=slo+blo+fuse+3.2+amp+120+volt&prds=epd:10311478264179553760,eto:10311478264179553760_0,pid:15108113217225807992&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiyipKjl_6FAxXqElkFHWhHAMEQ9pwGCAs

sometimes there are internal fuses and/or relays, rated for ..... not a lot

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