2. amps-preamps
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New expensive power cord for amp and no change in sound?

I bought new an expensive(for me) well known and reviewed power cord for my very good amp and plugged it directly onto the wall socket. After a couple of weeks of daily use I hear no change in the sound quality from a $500 cord. I don’t want to name it for fear of getting my thread deleted. You would know it or at least be aware of the company. Did I throw away several thousand dollars? Before I get the snake oil answer I want to let you know that I bought an upgraded cord for my pre as suggested by the pre’s manufacturer and am pleased with the results.

I guess for full disclosure the amp’s manufacturer said don’t bother. But I had had good luck with the pre so I thought it would be a good idea.

Anybody else have this happen to them?

roxy1927
phd
1,283 posts
 

Power cords can make a huge difference. This difference can be on par with buying a new amp (component upgrade). But unfortunately, cost does not aways dictate compatibility or performance with your gear. You just have to go with trial and error. Its just like buying interconnects, again, trial and error, system dependent. 

roxy1927 OP
120 posts
 

Well then Pass is a well known and admired popular brand in the audiophile world. I would like to know if others have used up market cords with Pass and found they did improve the sound.

Or does everybody who buys Pass use the stock cord?

I would appreciate if Pass owners and there must be a number of you would respond and let me know what results you’ve found.

 

mapman's avatar
mapman
21,891 posts
 

The there is always the option of changing the amp. That will surely change the sound of the power cord. 💡

jl35
3,943 posts
 

I prefer my Pass XA160.8 (as well as my previous Pass X250.8) with Cerious Matrix and Lumniscate  power cords. According to Stereophile (and others) Pass Labs uses Silent Source power cords and cables to voice their products and present them at audio shows...

mikhailark
57 posts
 

I own Pass phono stage, headphone amp. Used to own several power amps, starting from Aleph. I use fairly simple cables, properly shielded, soldered and have sufficient capability to deliver appropriate current without picking up additional RF interference. In $100 price range.

I generally think “what would be used in a fighter plane electric power delivery system”…

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