2. cables
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Power Cords

I am considering changing out my stock PCs. I don't want to spend a mint on them though. But I do think that upgrading to an adequate guage and having them in the correct lengths should be an upgrade for my system (MA 6500, Hydra 6, ML Vantages, Marantz BD 7003, Vidikron VL-52, and to come a Cambridge 840C).

I am considering Signal Cables, Zebra Cables, Pangea, PS Audio Jewels, and Element Cables. They are all around $50-$60 each and are within my price range. Also, I am considering just buying some Volex 17604s. They are less than $10 a piece and seem to be highly regarded.

Have any of you used these diffent PCs and can you comment on their sound? I've also thought of Shunyata Diamondbacks. But the cost is at least 2X as much.

Any comments or direction are appreciated.
pokey77
richard_stacy
686 posts
 
i have to third or fourth agree with tvad. pool all you were going to spend on cords and get the best one you can for the hydra. it is going to be the most audible and, imo, effective way to address what you have suggested is your goal. i realize it is not what you want to hear.

for what it's worth, i think you have a great system. welcome to the forum. as mentioned, you did pick a volatile topic!
pokey77 OP
604 posts
 
I appreciate all of the comments everyone has provided. Based on spending the whole lot on one very good PC, it sounds like the PC is not only providing power, but it is also filtering the power as well. So maybe the better cords provide the best filtering or cleaning of the incoming AC?

BTW I have a Hydra 6 and Hydra 2 and both have Venom PCs. That's why I was thinking of upgrading my other stock PCs. And also want to upgrade the stock cords on my MartinLogan Vantages as well.

I know this is a volatile topic... And I appreciate the advice. Keep it coming.
argyro
438 posts
 
If you have a revealing system, please please stay away from any Hydras... I have heard them in a few good systems, and trust me they don't do justice to your them...;)
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Having owned Hydra 3 and Hydra 2, I suggest taking your power cord money and purchasing a Quantum Reference Power Center from Alan Maher Designs. The Quantum Reference Power Center includes a captive power cord, and it has eight receptacles, so it would replace at least one of your Hydras and a power cord, if not both Hydras and two power cords.

During next week Alan has a sale on everything he makes.

He offers a 30 day return with a 15% restocking fee, although you have to ship the item to a US military base in Europe, so postage is more than if the item came from the US. Also, my experience has been that Alan is prickly about returns, although he'll honor the policy.

However, his products work well, and if you buy them on sale they provide an excellent value when compared to other power conditioning products.

IMO. FWIW.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
02-13-10: Tvad
Having owned Hydra 3...
Should be Hydra 4.
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