Impressed by Pangea Audio AC-9SE

Rlwainwright,
Yep, I am thinking putting the Kimber up for sale.

Dopogue,
This thing is addictive. Now I want to try out the AC-14SE for my preamp just for the heck of it. I agree the AC-9SE is made for amps. The AC-9SE is heavy and thick and I have to use some rolled-up card board to support the cables, especially right below the IEC.

I'm using an AC9SE between my VAC amp and a Shunyata Triton. It replaced a Nordost Brahma. The AC9SE did not sound very good straight out of the box (no highs, no lows, and recessed). It required some break-in time of around 20 hrs. Compared to the Brahma, it's actually better top and bottom, a bit leaner through the lower midrange.

Yeah, then there is that big price difference. I too have wondered what the AC14SE would sound like on the preamp, but then there is that break-in time.

I use Pangea cords for all the IECA/AC items in my stereo.
Experimenting with the various models pays off.
I am using a Pangea AC9SE between my conditioner and prreamp. IT is a close contest, but the AC9SE does well.
I still use the AC9 in some positions, and the AC14SE too.
As for the prices.. Yes an expensive power cord is a lot of money, so budget for your system. A $300 cord is not such a big deal on a $5,000 preamp.
If you are using a $800 preamp.. then the cord is not a realistic choice.

Rhljazz,
Interesting. I got a total different experience than yours with the AC-9SE. Right out of the box, it was a bit rough and edgy on top. After two to three hours, it started mellowing out a bit. It was quite transaprent with good lows, mids and highs right out of the box. I need to break it in more. Wonder how long it would take to really break it in.

I bought the AC9SE on Elizabeth's recommendation at the regular Audio Advisor price. Loved it right away. More taut bass, and quieter. Also very well made. Then Audio Advisor put them all on sale at 75% off. I bought 2 AC14SE cords for my pre and DAC. My transport has a captive cord. Warning! At least in my system, the AC14SE cords sounded so terrible at first, I was ready to pack them up and return them the first day.
I am glad that I didn't. Within 2 days, they were good, and within a week, I was very happy. Again, improvements in bass, quietness.
So now, Elizabeth, I would like to return the favor with a recommendation that is also affordable. The Afterburner 8 wall outlet at $80.00 from Avatar Acoustics. I was so skeptical, but so curious. Long story short, the improvement is huge. far bigger and more dramatic than the cords, the AMR fuses, the EVS ground enhancers, even my Adona rack. Unreal. Like someone threw a bucket of water in your systems face and woke it up. What is better? I am not going to waste words. Everything!
Peter from PBN needs to include this outlet in his upcoming comparison. Without a doubt, (and I had plenty) it is the best $80.00 I ever spent on my rig.