Recommendations for PC -- for modest system --


Looking for recommendations for PC for a modest AV system -- I know all things audio are personal preference - but still want feedback on experiences with PCs under the the <$400ish mark - 

My meager system:

Marantz 7705
ATI 7ch x 200 amp
B&W CDM9NT x4 plus matching center

Budget - is low compared to many here - but still looking for some solid guidance - <$400 for each PC for amp and AVP. If I can spend less - that is ideal - Not looking to squeeze every last bit of sweetness from my AV system - just want something that is a balance between - far better than stock PCs -- and improves system overall - on the exponential curve of price vs performance.

Considering the following: 

Morrow
Audioquest - one primary reason I am considering AQ - I can purchase at 45% msrp...
Nordost
Raven
Madscientist - unfamiliar but seem a few here have exp with them... 
Cullen
DIY?  -- Can I approach equal or better quality - for less if I DIY with the likes of with neo or dh cable or other with WG or other connectors... Is it worth the effort to DIY at budget I have set? 
Synergistic Research - considering - but I see none in the <$500 range... 

Thanks in advance.


lightfighter2018

Showing 2 responses by knownothing

I just built a PC with DH Labs Red Wave bulk cable and Furutech FI-28 (R)/FI-28M (R) rhodium connectors and it is really good. Five ft cable and Furutech connecters for about $400 in parts. You can use generic rhodium AC connectors from Parts Connexion which cost much, much less than the Furutechs. The Red Wave was $800, and is now available for $560 assembled from factory but comes with less resolving Wattgate connectors than listed above, so you can really save some money building yourself.

Another home brew cord I am high on is the Nanotec bulk cable which you can purchase from MCRU in the UK for about the same price as the Red Wave. Use either the Furutech or Parts Connection rhodium connectors and for $300 to $400 you get an a $800 cable.
The Nanotec is a little smoother than the Red Wave, but perhaps a bit less revealing. Both are excellent.

Other good cords I have tried:

Black Shadow with Rhodium connectors often available on Audiogon for under $200 is a real steal.

The IsoTek EVO3 Premier AC power cable is another good performing cable for the money, but pretty lit up if that is your cup if tea.

I am using a Shunyata Venom HC power cable on my Shuyata power strip that supplies everything but my amp and sub and it is pretty good but had an ungodly long breakin period. Its available in 15A and 20A versions fir $295.

I have not listened to AQ’s newer cables, but I hear good things about them. I am running some of their older PCs on my sub and in an office system. If you can get that kind of pricing you should look seriously. You could score a Blizzard or Thunder PC for under $400.

I would not hesitate to call the good folks at the cable company and get their opinions.
@lightfighter2018 - everything off is good, but who wants to fumble around in the dark?

If you have the option to install a dedicated line from your breaker box, that is a good idea. 20A breaker. I would use 10AWG supply line too while you are at it. And at least hospital quality outlet(s) or better.

What if anything are you using for a power strip or conditioner? If needed, this is where your AudioQuest discount could yield great value.

Everything matters. Dollars spent upstream reap greater rewards (and shine a light on wrong turns) for all upgrades downstream.