Shunyata Viper - New lower cost Zitron pc

[kleinbje]

Crion,
Now you have me wondering if I should have gotten the HC VTX its only $350 now, compared to $600, thought the Zitron would be better. Have you compared?

[Crion]

For this task (powerconditioner) I strongly suggest an Hydra HC, 9 gauge over an 11 gauge Zitron. The wire area difference of the two cables is huge, 9 gauge vs 11 gauge and that will absolutely make a difference to the Hydra HC's advantage in this particular application.

Put the zitron on a source/preamp but be wary of the IEC type connector of the gear you are using.

[BlueFox]

Originally Posted by Crion

Put the zitron on a source/preamp but be wary of the IEC type connector of the gear you are using.

The Shunyata power cables, not the Venom, are on the big side, and tend to hang down, and become easily disconnected from the gear. I do two things to reduce this problem. First, I wrap electrical tape around the power cord plug. This allows the cable to make a secure fit with equipment that uses cheap IEC connectors that are a bit bigger than spec. Second, I have hooks on the back of my rack and I use them to attach string that supports the cable from above so that it is always at a 90 degree connection into the connector. Basically, it is a strain relief. These two tweaks insure I always have a solid, secure power cable connection.

[audiot servant]

Originally Posted by Crion

For this task (powerconditioner) I strongly suggest an Hydra HC, 9 gauge over an 11 gauge Zitron. The wire area difference of the two cables is huge, 9 gauge vs 11 gauge and that will absolutely make a difference to the Hydra HC's advantage in this particular application.

Put the zitron on a source/preamp but be wary of the IEC type connector of the gear you are using.

+1... Unless Shunyata have been able to something miraculous with a smaller gauge that is a good move.

Also getting the hydra HC at its run out price is not bad timing either. It's a very good cable but like the other larger gauge cables I found that it takes a while longer to get itself settled in.

Looking forward to hearing your impressions of the Viper.

Graham

Sent from my iPhone using A.Aficionado

[kleinbje]

I am pretty happy with the sound of the viper, I did some critical listening last night and was impressed, no bass shortage which was one of the Diamondback Platinums main problems. The main issue I'm having is whether or not it steals the "boogie factor" from the music, clearly lots of psychological factors influencing this, but I just didn't seem to get as involved in the songs. Ran a fan all night and day to break it in, I just got a new copy of Crooked Rain/Crooked Rain 180g to check out. You guys really seem to think its all about the size of the cable, I thought the Zitron was way better technology, so it would perform better. Have you guys listened? Maybe I'll order the HC and compare with the 30 day return policy, though i feel like a new HC is coming soon, probably a viper HC ala Venom HC.
Jeff

[Crion]

Yes, the zitron users did this extensively when they compared the CX series anaconda/python vs their 1k$+ zitron counterparts. Zitron technology will help but you are talking about ofsetting instant current delivery on a 9 gauge Hydra HC with an 11 gauge zitron. I'm sorry but I just can't see it happening on a powerconditioner application.

[gshepardbuster]

I would let your new cord(s) run that fan for at least a week before critiquing. When I got my Hydra HCs it was irresistible to listen and I did but afterwords they were placed back on fan duty. I have no doubt your "boogie factor" will be back soon!

[kleinbje]

Well I have been doing some extensive listening, the viper zitron is so so. It definitely expands the soundstage and increases imaging specificity, but it killed the involvement for me overall. Today I received the HC and a demo Cobra Zitron, I like the HC so far , but the Cobra smokes them both. It was sold as a demo, but I'm not sure if it is broken in as the plastic sheath was still sealed. The soundstage is so much bigger and everything is much quieter. A pronounced positive difference so far.

[gshepardbuster]

kleinbje, Glad to here you like the Cobra. I was really close to pulling the trigger on 2-3 Vipers but instead decided to order 3 Cobras. I do like my Hydra HCs so if as you say the Cobra "smokes em" that's quite a feet! I would'nt even of considered the upmarket cords but have just replaced a Hydra 4 with the Cyclops so what the hay right. BTW the Cyclops is silly good, I'm still shaking my head, can't wait until its broke in with the Cobras.

[Ritmo]

These Shunyata Zitron PCs are fantastic performers. I installed a Cobra on my new Esoteric K-05. Very very pleased with it.