Budget Power Cord Choices For McIntosh

[jayvis]

Originally Posted by Mikado463

Do you really understand soundstage ? if so what do you expect a power cord to do ??

As for 'claims' from power cord manufacturers ..............

I fully understand the subjective term. Please provide your opinion on what a power cord can actually do.

[Mikado463]

Originally Posted by jayvis

Please provide your opinion on what a power cord can actually do.

it's not an opinion, rather fact .......... A power cord is to provide a solid electro-mechanical connection at both ends and be able to have proper current / load carrying capability to ones components without introducing any EMI or other artifacts.

Now opinions on the other hand is where your 'soundstage' thoughts come in.

[jayvis]

Originally Posted by Mikado463

it's not an opinion, rather fact .......... A power cord is to provide a solid electro-mechanical connection at both ends and be able to have proper current / load carrying capability to ones components without introducing any EMI or other artifacts.

Now opinions on the other hand is where your 'soundstage' thoughts come in.

So, in other words, you recommend just staying with your component stock cords?

[Blueoak]

Originally Posted by jayvis

So, in other words, you recommend just staying with your component stock cords?

Your factory cords probably aren't shielded optimally, because of UL regulations require that the shield be connected to both the component end and wall end. The best are floating shields, which the shield is only connected to the wall end.

[jayvis]

Originally Posted by Blueoak

In my opinion and experience, little to nothing. However, I do like the construction and build quality improvements you get over stock cables. I also like being able to get custom lengths, so that you can properly dress your cables. I honestly recommend the DIY route for you. It isn't that hard, and comes way under your budget, and you end up getting better materials than what's offered for retail at the same price.

Thanks for your take Blueoak. Have you tried any manufactured after-market cords in your system? If so, what, if any sonic differences did you notice over the stock McIntosh cords? Construction and build quality alone aren't worth my money for something that's hidden behind my equipment and cabinet.

[jayvis]

Originally Posted by Blueoak

Your factory cords probably aren't shielded optimally, because of UL regulations require that the shield be connected to both the component end and wall end. The best are floating shields, which the shield is only connected to the wall end.

Can you actually hear the difference between cables with and without floating shields?

[Masterlu]

Power cables make a huge difference in my opinion. Every stock cord stays in the factory box in storage.

[jayvis]

I've always been skeptical about power cables and have only recently been drawn onto the fence because of the constant magazine & user reviews and so-called revolutionary breakthroughs by cable companies. Otherwise, your list pretty much matches mine when it comes to sound quality improvements. I'll most likely put the thought to bed and just get back to enjoying my system.

[jayvis]

Originally Posted by Masterlu

Power cables make a huge difference in my opinion. Every stock cord stays in the factory box in storage.

In systems where no stone is left unturned like yours Ivan, I find it hard to believe that you could hear anything wrong.

[j3brow]

Originally Posted by jayvis

In systems where no stone is left unturned like yours Ivan, I find it hard to believe that you could hear anything wrong.

That’s actually the point. Once a system gets to the level that Ivan and many others have, you can hear EVERYTHING. That’s when you can hear the differences in power cords, interconnects, vibration control devices, etc. In my experience, quality power DELIVERY is essential. One must think in terms of maximizing the entire circuit feeding your stereo .... at least as much as you can do within reason .... such as multiple 20 amp dedicated lines with 10 gauge wire, upgrade outlets (i like Furutech), Power conditioner/distributor/regenerator, and then power cords. Do everything and if you can’t hear the difference well frankly you are in the wrong hobby. Unfortunately, $300 expenditure on your power delivery system will keep you on the skeptic side of the fence. Stay with stock cords if you don’t have a plan to cover all the power bases.