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Vintage amps & power cords

Every time I power up my old McIntosh MC2200 amps - a pair running in mono mode, I can't stop to think about those stock power cords. The cords sticking out of my preamp and the amp in my other system look like fire hoses as compared to these cords and yet these amps are rated at 400 wpc as configured.

I completely understand the argument that the designers knew what they were doing but using this argument the aftermarket power cord suppliers should all be out of business.

Curious to hear input from folks with vintage gear and wondered the same thing, and what did they do about it.  

kalali
sfall
346 posts
 
" Curious to hear input from folks with vintage gear and wondered the same thing, and what did they do about it. "

I've had plenty vintage components over the years. It's very common to upgrade to a removable power cord, rca connectors and speaker terminals. If you don't have anyone local, give Audio Classics in NY a call. They're the biggest McIntosh service center, and they have an extremely good reputation. 
jl35
2,244 posts
 
maybe you can combine yours and Wolfs concerns, and get an IEC input, and attach a cheap thin cord...
wolf_garcia
4,650 posts
 
Yeah man…the Skinny AC Cable Revolution starts…I bet a case could be made for "vintage" AC cords…"although possibly dangerous, old, cracked, perhaps rat bitten fragile AC cables are the way to go for an original sound…make sure your homeowner policy is current."
jl35
2,244 posts
 
it's the 50 year break-in period that makes them sound so good...
wolf_garcia
4,650 posts
 
Nothing beats the snap and pop of a vintage power cord.
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