Power Plant Premier making sound worse?

I own a PPP purchased 2/07. My APL/Esoteric definitely sounds better straight into the wall - more lucid and dynamic each time I tested it. Perhaps it has something to do with the R-core transformer.

Through experimentation, I found that on a good power day, some other components sounded better connected direct to the wall. Problem is, you never know what days will be the good days so overall, the system sounds better with most components plugged into the the PPP.

I am not a big fan of nickel plating. I think I read that the buss bars are also nickel plated in the PPP. The PPP cannot be retrofitted with other outlets due to the construction method used so you are stuck with nickel. I think the PPP would be better without it but Paul McGowan apparently thinks nickel is great.

What's the sound of nickel plated outlets?

I had a PPP for a bit in my system and it did what most of the conditioners I have owned (Isoclean, Sound Application) or demoed (Hydra V8) did, it sucked the punch and liveliness from the music. It just softened everything.

However, I did demo a PurePower 1050 for a few days. This is when I discovered how much the Isoclean was not right for my system. The dynamics and punch came back when I used the PurePower. The dealer did not let me demo it long enough to develop a thorough opinion and the fan in it was a deal breaker for me. And the form factor was also an issue. However, I am still considering getting one.

Drubin, in a well-adjusted high end system, the difference between pure copper, gold and nickel plated outlets is abysmal.
I write from experience, because I have four outlets behind my system and can easily test/demo the differences.
Nickel adds a metalic sheen to the upper midrange and treble. Once I hear it, my brain locks on it and all the fun is gone. Think early CD players, that's the kind of effect I hear.

BTW i prefer pure copper, silver and gold plated outlets. I have not enjoyed any experiments with rhodium-plated outlets, but that is one person's taste.

Casouza, I second your opinion of nickel plated outlets (and IEC inlets as well). I've replaced every stock nickel plated inlet in my components. I don't get why all high end manufacturers put some of the finest caps, resistors, and what have you in their equipment, yet install a crappy $1.29 inlet ?