2. misc-audio
  3. 1045370226

Power Conditioners vs. Power Cables

I couldn't find anyone discussing this topic... if I'm mistaken please advise.

Does one negate the need for the other? In short, I want to know if my recent acquisition of a Monster HTS-5100, which noticeably improved the sound of my system, precludes the need for me to consider upgrading my power cables, as well, in hopes that it could further enhance the sound.
I’ve heard that there was no point to it with a power conditioner... that it was all I needed. Does anyone feel differently? I'm not sure what the general consensus tends to be on this issue.
I was of the belief that the power conditioner served to clean up the power from the city, but that the power cable would improve the transfer of the now 'clean' electricity from the conditioner to the components. Am I wrong and wasting my money investing in upgraded PC's? Or, is there, definitely more room for improvement to be had?

Thanks in advance!!
vectorman67
tok20000's avatar
tok20000
608 posts
 
You can have dedicated 20 amp circuits and cryo'd outlets and even outstanding AC conditioning, and I would still say that the power cords one uses can have SERIOUS sonic impacts on the sound quality of your system. I say this because a friend of mine has all of the above and AC cords still impact his system immensely. He can completely change the sound of his system by switching out the AC cord of his Mark Levinson transport.

I do not have dedicated lines or Cryo'd outlets (someday soon....), but I do have decent AC conditioning for my front end and my preamp. And power cords can also totally transform the sound I hear from my system as well.

KF
lak's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
lak
3,516 posts
 
YES, I agree! Power cords can also totally transform the sound I hear from my system as well.
stehno
1,453 posts
 
My list is similar to Lak's with the following exceptions:

1. My Foundation Research dedicated in-line power conditioners have their own built-in power cables. Thus saving me a few grand.

2. I've lifted/floated the grounds on all components for less AC noise.

3. Based on a friend's recommendation, I recently re-connected the ground only on the pre's dedicated line for still further sonic improvements.

-IMO
vectorman67 OP
42 posts
 
This is great! You've all given me more options to pursue to improve my system. And from what it sounds like, I'm not wasting my time, or money, in upgrading my power cables. Personally, I find the tweaking and tinkering to be half the fun of audio.

Thanks to everyone!!!
voodoochile
93 posts
 
Vector,

I have a HTS5000 that i use for audio.. I am very happy
with performance especially considering the price but i can
tell you from recent experience adding quality PC's will
make a "huge" improvment even with the 5100 in the chain.
Think of every wire and PC as a component of your system.

Good luck
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