stesom
Well-known member
I assure you that better mechanical connections and materials make a difference. Buy a spec or hospital grade ac outlet for $6 at Home Depot and swap out that standard outlet. I think most of you will hear the difference.
BTW--Most stock power cords are 18 gauge wire with 3 conductors. Household Romex is typically 12 gauge wire with 3 conductors. If you want to get the most out of the Romex in your home, replace stock cords with a 12 gauge, 3 conductor cord, at least. Brands are not important. Yes, there are some differences, i.e., some have filter networks built in, some are shielded, but that's another discussion. One place where power cords make a really big difference is in low signal areas, e.g., turntables and cd/dvd players. Audio equipment loves current.
Just to clarify, typical 15 amp circuits run on 14 guage wire and 20 amp circuits run on 12 guage. I do agree that it is good to run a well constructed power cord of equal guage to the circuit, but I personally think it is silly to spend any more than 100 bucks for 6-8 feet to get good wire and quality connectors with an insulator. I have over 50k in my system, but I would not waste my money on expensive power cables......Steve