Cheap tweaks...What would YOU reccomend?

If you build your own power cables, instead of just inserting the stripped wire into the connector - try crimping and soldering copper spade connectors on to the ends and then tighten down as hard as you can.

I didn't use anything special - just spades from my local parts supply - but they are copper and the correct gauge for the wire and the solder is good quality lead-free for electronics use

The improvements in dynamics and fine details was very noticeable.

The first cable I tried this on was a 10gauge furutech cable which was proving difficult to install a connector onto.

The other advantage - none of those little rogue strands of conductor that do not go into the hole that can cause serious problems :-)

I also had problems with the 10 guage Furutech stranded wire when I used it for a DIY power cord even using Furutech plugs.

THe wire is very stiff and a bit thick on the plastic insulation.

I gave up, went back to 10 guage Romex with better furutech connectors. Nice tight fit.

I guess since I'm one of those less is more types, I have a problem adding spade connectors and solder to a connector.

I've always felt that the sound was less coloured with a direct,clean connection,and that a solderless connection when there can be one(as on my Furutech RCA's)was about as pure as it can get, noyhing between the bare wire and the connectors.

I agree that the connection must be as tight as possible,and that if solder needs to be used it has to be from one of the top aftermarket sources, like many of the silver solders.

I could agree with tining the stranded wires with a small bit of quality solder, but I think I would pass on any type of connector when making up a power cord.

Those little spades ,even when they are copper ,just have to be adding something extra to the sound or taking something away,but that's just my audiphile nervosa.

I don't doubt your claims, and it's always great to learn new stuff.

Lacee - I shared your beliefs until I tried it on my 10 gauge cable and found it improved the sound

I think the trick is to minimize the effect of the solder by ensuring..
1. The spade is a tight fit on the wire
2. Crimp before soldering to make an initial "cold weld"

Maybe all that is needed is a crimp?

I've since tried it on my braided romex and my other furutech and DH Labs cables with the same positive results.

ITS a secret !!

All solder is bad, especially that which you can buy today. Welding would be great were it easy to do.