2. cables
  3. 1339860009

What Power Cord can improve clarity and bass slam?

My price limit is around $1K new or used. The new pc would be plugged into a dedicated line(12-gauge Romex)using an Oyaide DX/WPC-Z wallplate. My amp is a Valve Audio Predator/Mullard CV-2493-Northstar Sapphire CDP and Focus Audio FS8 speakers. Cables are JPS Labs-Superconductor Q/Plus. I would be replacing an Opera Audio Ella Baby pc on the Predator. Want to improve clarity in complex passages, add bass slam/definition and create a more open/liquid presentation without giving up speed-resolution and neutrality which are my systems strengths. After many hours of research here is a list of power cords that could work.
Cable Research Labs-MK 2
DH Labs-Red Wave
JPS Labs-Kaptovator
Silver Circle Audio-Vesuvius
Stealth Audio-Cloude 99
VooDoo Cables-Black Diamond Dragon
Your comments regarding these power cords would be appreciated along with any other suggestions. Look forward to your responses!
dayglow
digsmithd
913 posts
 
I third the comments...i went from standard to dedicateds.It was the best upgrade ive done by far.everythings improved,550.00 for install was the best money spent!
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,305 posts
 
Assuming your power may not be clean to start with, which is often the case, I would first try a suitable power conditioner to accomplish your goals before investing in a fancy power cord. THere is a good chance that will accomplish your goal and you would then find that different power cords make little or no difference as long as what you use has basic quality construction.

I say this because power conditioners are much better suited to effectively address any power issues at play than power cords.

Different power cords might result in a difference in sound as well in any case, but are much less well suited as the best place to address power issues in general.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,470 posts
 
I don't think you are looking for a power cord. If you don't like your system (needs more bass slam) you need different speakers and/or an amp that would give it to you.
pani
1,219 posts
 
I would also agree that you can do better wIth a purepower pp490 which just little over 1k or you can also get a monarchy audio regenerator for $600 or so but it is only 150 watt output so only source and preamps can be connected.
If you still insist on a power cord then look at a transparent audio PLMM2 which goes for $900 or so on audiogon very frequently. It acts as a good power conditioner also.
dayglow OP
1,915 posts
 
Hi, everyone.
Waiting on delivery for a RSA-Elgar that will be used for the Sapphire. Can always add a RSA-Duke if more conditioning is need. I don't believe new speakers or amp are needed to make subtle but substantial improvements. For example 8($10-total cost) tube rings elevated the Mullards to another level. A power cord(s) is just another piece of the puzzle to maximize the potential of my system.
More to discover