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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

jimboman
jimboman OP
123 posts
 

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.

dctom
124 posts
 

Hi I had ATC active 100s with anniversary amp packs. The dedicated room had its own power supply. I used Kimber 8TC for power cables from the outlets. Did experiment with some fancy power cables made no difference.

jimboman OP
123 posts
 

Thanks @dctom for sharing your experience.  Very useful info.

Perhaps I'm 'listening with my eyes', but I've decided to purchase Cardas Clear Power cables for my 100As.  I've had good results with Cardas gear previously.

Even if it's just ticking that box, I think it's worth the (over?)spend to give the system every chance of performing to it's utmost abilities.

Thanks to all who have contributed to this thread.  Your insights and experiences have been much appreciated.

Best, JAMES

squared80's avatar
squared80
331 posts
 

Power cords don't change sound. That's scientific fact. So don't be surprised that marketing snake oil doesn't come to fruition. A true audiophile knows this... welcome to the team. 

celtic66
1,955 posts
 

@ghdprentice ​​​​​and @jimboman  both correct.  Twofer!  

I run ATC 19A, 40A and 50A floor standers.  Yes, my mom is proud.  Anyway, started with Patrick Cullen with good results, ended with Furutech 4.1 with Furutech connectors and great results.  Do NOT have dedicated line though.  Run Puritan Labs 156 conditioner that bests all previous attempts with conditioners to deliver more dynamics and lower noise floor.

That should send @jasonbourne71 to the medicine cabinet.   Welcome to badass actives!

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