@jimboman I would recommend you try nordost cables. Heimdall 2 and Frey 2. Used they’re not terribly expensive (depending on your budget). I don’t see how or why they wouldn’t improve the sound or at least make a difference. I’ve used these cords on every component from streamers to amps. If their sound signature (airy, fast, relaxed) is to your liking you should hear these qualities in your system when these cords are feeding the speaker amps.
Power cord upgrade for ATC 100A Active Speakers
Hello:
I've just acquired a pair of ATC SCM100A active speakers, and I'm wondering what other users of ATC actives have done regarding stock PCs versus upgraded PCs.
I did a quick test of a cheap PC versus a Cardas Clear Beyond Power cable, and was surprised to NOT hear a big difference, given that the same cable made a huge difference in my previous (passive) system (a Benchmark AHB2 and SCM 40s).
In that setup, the Beyond PC increased the mid/lower bass, and provided more slam and musicality. It felt like a component-level upgrade. I expected a similar improvement with the 100As...not that they sounded lean in any way with the stock PC.
Would love to hear from other ATC active owners who upgraded their PCs. What did you choose? Did you find a big difference, or was it just a box-checker?
Thanks in advance for your advice/experience in this matter.
Best, JAMES
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@audphile1 Thanks as always for the great suggestions. The Frey 2 is probably more than I want to spend - ain't that always the way - but I'll keep my eyes open on the used market. I am also a fan of the Cardas PCs, and have a hankering for a matched set of Clear, if the right ones come along. Thanks also @inagroove and @stereo5 for the food for thought. I'm definitely going to upgrade the stock PCs, once the right options become available. Best, JAMES. |
OP I suggest that you look at used cables. try out their loaners or buy used. I m a fan of Shunyata power cables. Just note that your gear is ATC powered, and I have ATC non powered speakers. I speculate that the ATC built in amplifiers Can !! benefit from a power cable upgrade, but before you get suck into it, do a loaner and listen for yourself, if your powered ATC does Synergy well with an upgraded power cord |
Thanks @joeycastillo for your wise words. There sure was amazing synergy when I had a Cardas Beyond Power cable hooked up to my Benchmark AHB2 and ATC SCM40s. Very musical, and fleshed out the mid/low bass nicely. The SCM 100As already sound amazing with the stock cords, but I have a feeling they will only improve with an upgraded PC. Keeping my eyes peeled on the used market. Fingers crossed I can find a good pair of 1M PCs. Best, JAMES. |
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