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Replace pwr cord w/IEC socket on vintage gear?

I have thought about this many times, as I own a fair amount of gear from the '80s. Yesterday I picked up a KILLER Heathkit pwr amp, but it has a really wimpy pwr cord. The shop where I bought it will install an IEC socket for 1 hr. labor plus the part. Given that this opens the amp up to the world of better power cords, this seems like an attractive, low-cost upgrade.

Has anybody here done it, and how'd it turn out?
johnnyb53
elizabeth
6,726 posts
 
A solution is the KEEP the stock cord as an extra, with an IEC plug on it too. Make certain that cord is marked as to where it comes from.
The the 'original' cord can certainly still be used.
rrog
1,958 posts
 
Onhwy61, No I don't think the engineers at Heathkit tried different power cords, but I believe they voiced their product with the existing power cord. Got it?
rrog
1,958 posts
 
Elizabeth, The problem is the addition of another connection and materials by installing an IEC. Audio Research resisted IEC sockets for many years because they said it was detrimental to the sound of their equipment. Finally they gave in because the market demanded it.
elizabeth
6,726 posts
 
Well, plenty of (in fact nearly all) manufacturers now use an IEC.
Use a Furman male, and a good plug. No problems.
I think those comments were back when all IECs were nickel plated (read cheap) junk.
stltrains
845 posts
 
Almarg i believe Rrog is talking about having all components in phase with each other by using the chassis and a good ground for measurements for proper phase. not a bad thing to do with any gear even phased plugs of newer gear have been known to be wired wrong.
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