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Power Cables and Power Conditioner

I bought my first PS Audio (PSA) outlet as well as a PSA power cable.  I had intended to use the power cable to go from the new wall outlet to the conditioner but when I got home I realized the Furman ELITE-15 DMi has a fixed power cable.  I thought dang it and was going to return the PSA cable but then decided to give it a try.  So I ran the PSA cable from the Furman to my Rogue Audio Preamp.  I swear I think there was a moderate improvement to the overall image.  But of course this could be placebo and I have not done a bunch of with/without listening but am happy so far.


I assume the Furman filter is doing its job and adding the PSA power cord to the Pre is preserving this current as best it can. I would like to add another cord for the DAC and the power amp. But thought I would float this probe to see what other people do in similar situations as this.
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Showing 3 responses by lowrider57

lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,391 posts
 
Which PSA power cable are you using? Usually 12 gauge is sufficient for a component like your Rogue preamp.

You may not be experiencing a placebo effect due to the fact that an aftermarket PC such as PS Audio will have a sonic signature just like each manufacturer’s interconnects or speaker cables. Compared to a cheap stock PC, you probably will hear a difference.
A well designed PC will use a high quality conductor, shielding, etc. and lower the noise floor. However, since you are using a PSA receptacle and a power conditioner, it’s hard to say how much your cable is contributing to the overall sonics.

Part of upgrading your power conditioning should include the installation of a dedicated AC line to the circuit box.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,391 posts
 
I believe you are benefiting from the PS cable. As I stated, with a quality PC vs. stock (I have owned a Rogue preamp so I know first hand), you’ll get better power delivery and lower noise.
My point is that different brands of cable have different sonic signatures;
eg, dynamics, imaging, neutral or coloured. You could audition PC’s by ordering from dealers with a return policy. I’ve tried many.

The Furman fixed PC is fine for low-current draw components. You'll benefit from audiophile PC's, but how much depends on the cable design and the type of component. 
The amp should have a larger gauge cable and typically is not plugged into the conditioner, since it may restrict dynamics.

Re: dedicated line, you run the line inside the house through the wall and under the floor like any electrical. A licensed electrician must do the hook-up to the breakers.
Search the archives for "dedicated line."
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,391 posts
 
So do people just sacrifice the amp in case they get a surge?
Some people have surge protection for the amp located at the breaker box. I plug my amp into a professional grade power strip which does not limit current.
This Furman is the type used by musicians on stage to power their gear. To my ears, it seems completely transparent and protects against RF and EMI.
https://www.amazon.com/Furman-SS6B-Plug-Surge-Protector/dp/B0002D017M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=149...

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