Power Cords for Sound Labs

Many folks including engineers don’t understand all of the challenges. The first one that completely misses the point is the notion that after miles and miles of cable from the switching station, how is the last foot going to make a difference?

First of all, all the nasties that send high frequency hash back into the AC live IN YOUR HOUSE. Secondly, have you ever heard of a water filter. That last couple of inches can certainly make a difference.

If memory serves, the backplates use switch mode power supplies. They are famous for generating all manner of high frequency noise which can modulate with the signal. I use double shielded cables with mine to ensure the noise doesn’t find its way to other parts of the audio chain.

Is anyone using, or have heard Accuphase amps with the SoundLab speakers. In particular, the A300 mono blocks. Cheers.

Maybe this note from Roger West will be the last word in Power Cables for SoundLab Speakers.

Hello Eric,

The major work that we have been developing is a bias supply that uses a miniscule amount of the audio power from the amplifier to develop the bias voltage. This eliminates the AC power cord, but does not have any effect on the sound quality. The major reason for the development is to eliminate the challenges of different voltages and connector types in foreign countries. Further, it eliminates problems with importing speakers that use AC power, which usually requires an inspection. If you do not mind using an AC power cord then the self-bias approach would be of no value.
Other than the self bias development we have not made any changes since you purchased your speakers 4 years ago.

I think the operative words are “miniscule amount” of power required.

@ Bigtwin:

Right!
Here’s the thing: if you say that power cords or spikes or any one of a thousand useless accessories makes no difference, they will continue to ask the forum until they find one person who confirms their assumption and gives them an excuse to buy that useless cable or spike. The opinion of design engineers and professional musicians is of no interest to them. They care about being able to do something with their system, for listening is not enough fun.

Roger West told me “the SoundLab speakers don’t require a look of power. No special power cord is required” That’s good enough for me.

For those interested in a more robust power cord that is custom configurable, I have worked with a reputable high end cable manufacturer to develop a replacement cable that truly looks and feels the part to power your SL panels. The five foot set pictured utilize high quality right angled connectors so that the cord lays flat coming out of the IEC and is directed downward from the wall outlet. However, other lengths and connector options are available. Here are the specs:

12 AWG 3 conductor twisted design
High purity stranded copper for maximum conductivity
Premium UL 62 grade jacket provides excellent resistance to abrasion, water, oil
UL listed and CSA certified
Temperature range: -40 degree C to +90 degree C
Voltage rating: 300 Volts
Amp rating: 25A

Connectors:
Male – Marinco 8215 NEMA Hospital-Grade Power Plug 15A 125V
Female – Marinco 320IEC15 IEC Power Connector 15A 120V
Wattgate 15RA Right Angle Adapter

Please reach out directly if you are interested in learning more.

Hi Dizzie,
Yes, I tested three power cords differing in geometry, construction and price (double-blind test).
No audible difference here.
Regards
Massimo