How can power cords make a difference?


I am trying to understand why power cords can make a difference.

It makes sense to me that interconnects and speaker cables make a difference. They are dealing with a complex signal that contains numerous frequencies at various phases and amplitudes. Any change in these parameters should affect the sound.

A power cord is ideally dealing with only a single frequency. If the explanation is RF rejection, then an AC regeneration device like PS Audio’s should make these cords unnecessary. I suppose it could be the capacitance of these cables offering some power factor correction since the transformer is an inductive load.

The purpose of my post is not to start a war between the “I hear what I hear so it must be so” camp and the “you’re crazy and wasting your money,” advocates. I am looking for reasons. I am hoping that someone can offer some valid scientific explanations or point me toward sources of this information. Thanks.
bruce1483

Showing 3 responses by kjg

Not to take sides here, but its worth mentioning that current is drawn, not forced as the gasoline hose analogy would imply. All that is required is a cable with sufficiently low resistance that is able to provide the current when demanded. If 18 gauge doesn't adequately fit this bill, then a larger cable will likely be a benefit. However, the amount of current demanded by a DVD player is relatively small, and a 6 foot run of either 18 or 12 gauge copper wire should have very low resistance, so its likely that any differences you hear are probably due some factor other than the ability to carry current. I know that there are many theories about producing high quality power cables, and its possible that something is coming into play other than the absolute size of the wire.

Cheers,
Ken
I have to say, this thread is *far and away* the most passionate, thoughtful (well, most of the time), and interesting thread I've read on this site (and there have been many). Thanks to all of you for playing a part in it and allowing a great number of us to listen in.

Jhunter: I'm in your area and would love to provide my ears to the experiment if you're willing. Prior to this discussion, I was rather in your camp about power cords (using stock cords myself), but have to admit my interest has definitely been peaked. Give me a holler if you'd like some skeptical, but reasonably open minded company. I'll be happy to bring down my cords and see how they fair against rest.

Thanks again to all for the both the information and entertainment.

Cheers,
Ken