Qality power cables - do they make a difference?

[admin_exported]

I'm looking to upgrade my system but it has been suggested I buy quality mains cables before looking at upgrading. I am currently using Arcam 8 CD/Tag McLaren DAC 20 with AudioLab 8000S/P (now 10+ years old) combo with System Audio speakers (just changed speakers from Mission 752 Freedom).

If mains cables do make a significant difference, how much should one spend on them £50-100-150-200?

Choices of upgrade include:

new CD player - Cyrus CD8SE/Power Combo or Primare CD31

Move to new Audiolab Monoblocks and use 8000S in pre-amp mode.

I listen to most types of music particularly the likes of Clapton, Elton John, Rod Stewart, instrumental, etc...

My first post, so comments greatly appreciated.

JNP

 

[matengawhat]

if you are sceptical try buying a tacima mains block not tried myself - next level up merlin tarrantula mains block (i do own), you will notice a big improvement in stereo imaging and clarity - i find you can then turn up that little bit higher - if you don't then don't buy individual cables - if it does then buy one for each component

what speaker cable do you have?

 

[Anonymous]

Speaker cable - Nordost flat bi-wire. Thanks for your feedback. You have articulated what I'm trying to achieve - improvement in stereo imaging and clarity.

 

[matengawhat]

the only thing i will say is the biggest changes you will get do come from changing components but guess also depends on whether you are unhappy with any particular component

 

[kena]

Agreed Tacima CS929 should be your first buy, then try clearer audio copper line mains (£35) or Russ Andrews Powerkord both companies do money back gaurantee so get both and see which you prefer. Will definately be an improvement if you are just using equipment supplied leads.

 

[matengawhat]

merlin cables sell direct online the tarrantula mains cables are also £30 at moment and they also do a full money back guarantee from memory

 

[Anonymous]

Again, thanks for your replies. I'll move forward with the cables first and try to maximise current system. I did notice quite a bit of mains noise from one of the speakers.

 

[Anonymous]

Just the one? This seems rather unlikely... although I'm quite happy for someone to set me straight on this.

 

[PJPro]

Power cable near to speaker cable?

 

[matengawhat]

i currently have a hum on just one channel but think that might be down to the speaker cable being coiled its 5m long and only 1.5 from the amp - going to try and sort when i remove a power amp and wire in the sub sometime this week