Is there a optimum lenght for power cables?


I've followed the debates on cable lenghts for IC's and speaker cables. The shorter the better on speaker cables seems to make sense. IC any reasonable lenght will not impact the signal. What about power cords? I had a dealer tell me that they should be no less than 2 meters. Looking for comments has anyone else heard this and if true can you please explain why. I am looking to purchase after market PC's and would prefer shorter because my equipment is near dedicated out lets so I don't need long cords 1 meter will due. Besides the back of my rack is starting to look like a cable jungle. Thanks in advance.
walkelin

Showing 1 response by jmcgrogan2

Your dealer is full of sh!t, to put it bluntly. Explain then why 1.5 meters is the most common length. He's just trying to make more money.
I don't know that there is an optimum length. I've noticed MUCH more difference between different power cord designs and materials than I have between lengths. FWIW, I don't own any 1 meter lengths, but I do own a few 4 foot power cords. The only thing with shorter power cords is that they need to be more flexible. Short AND stiff is a bad combination for power cords.

Also, after talking with many cable manufacturers, it seems like that 'the shorter is better' formula for speaker cables has expired. Most manufacturers today will not sell speaker cables less than 6 feet in length. They now say that 6 feet is the minimum length for molecular stabilization. Or maybe a 3 foot pair just doesn't cost enough. You be the judge.

John