As per Sean's description of the Hydra 8's architecture, a while ago I posted my opinion that the analog outlets sounded better (tighter bass, more relaxed & integrated sound field) for all components, digital ones included. The analog ones are the first in the chain, so this seems to explain it.
Mating power cords with APL 3910
While waiting for my (Denon) APL 3910 to arrive, I need some help in coming up with a short list of power cords to audition with it. In addition to listing the PCs you liked best with this unit, it would be most helpful if you could provide some specificity. In particular, what sonic and musical virtues are the offspring when the particular PC is mated with the APL 3910? Sonically speaking, which PCs didn't do as well with it? Are there any PCs that mate well (or don't mate well) with digital sources in general?
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Too be honest, I thought my Krell Amp sounded better straight into the wall instead of using the Hydra 8 with everything else plugged into it. But,the cuplrit probably was that when I plugged the Krell into the Hydra 8 everything else was on one single 20 Amp circuit. When using the Hydra 2 with my Krell and the Hydra 8 with my digital I am using 2 seperate dedicated circuits. One for the digital and one for my Amp. My Krell Amp is really a power sucking monster. I remember trying it with a PS Audio 600, just turning it on shut down the PS with nothing else plugged into it. I don't know if the Hydra 8 is power limiting (it's not supposed to be) but the dedicated line that the hydra 8 is plugged into is. The Hydra 2 with the Krell Amp improved the Krell Amp sound quality , particulary in the bass tone. I think I got the Hydra 2 for $300 bucks. When you think of the cost of the APL and our other equipment, $300-$400 bucks more is not that much for improved sound quality and protection of the equipment. But, you gotta buy another power cord ! |
Once again, threads are overlapping. Rather than double post, here's a link to the other thread where Grant ( Tvad ) and i discussed alternatives to the Hydra. After reading all of this and seeing the opportunity to fill a void in the market that has now been highlighted for all to see, i'm sure that a manufacturer will start producing such a unit sometime shortly. Sean > PS... Rgs92, thanks for pointing that out. I never saw your comments about the Hydra as most of these type of products don't interest me for the aforementioned reasons. Having said that and as i've mentioned before, one doesn't necessarily need to listen to a product to have a good idea as to what to expect out of it. That is, if they know how to dissect it electrically and can understand what those electrical characteristics may translate to sonically. Someone should point this thread and the others where i've posted similar comments based on logical deductions to Jtinn and and his group of cronies. They don't seem to think that such things are possible. |
Yep, I have to go along with Sean, since his analysis has proven right to my ears. For the record, my Edge NL-12 amp is much smoother & warmer (but still conveys all the details & dynamics) through the Hydra 8. I have all my source components (EMMs) bunched up in the analog outlets. The digital ones made them sound strained. Other power conditioners I have tried did make things sound smoother, but made amp sound compressed and the source components kind of lifeless. I have had more luck with better power cords, where I have experienced major improvements. I have always been suprised how power cords can be as influential as interconnects. |
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