Power cords for Audio Refinement system

If you hack the ends off the Volex and replace them with a P&S 5266 plug and Schurter iec you have an Asylum cord. A noticeable improvement over the stock volex for about $20 more, but not, in my opinion as good as many of the better used cords available in the $100 to $200 range.

Toguh call, you don't want to spend a bunch of money on power cords given the value of the gear. $200 power cord on a $400-$600 component? Nah, doesn't make sense. I have an ARC tuner and CDP and changed my cords. I went with Audioquest power cords, they seem to be reasonably well made, and inexpensive (if memory serves I paid $40 for the cords). I also picked up an Asylum cord for my office system, again it strikes me as well made and quite reasonable.

Make your own from Scurter IEC and a good plug and some Belden 83802. Ridiculously good for the $$.

Have only tried a couple brands of cords (Audioquest, Belden home brew, and Carol cable home brew). All three were better than stock (they were 14 - 12 ga. each and shielded - the home brews with aluminum foil!).

However, nothing prepared me for the benefit I got with LAT International's AC-2 cord (on the web at www.LATInternational.com). It's amazing, sincerely - I now own three. At $129.00 per, they are a very effective upgrade.

Enjoy!

Thanks for your comments!

Kevin