Different lengths power cables

SR-1

Well-Known Member
Sep 3, 2016
39
3
113
London, United Kingdom
In sound quality terms, is much to be gained by keeping Shunyata power cables as short as possible? Using the most convenient wall socket for a Delta NR cable I am thinking of getting would require me to get a 10 foot cable. But a standard length cable would be fine if I used the wall socket nearest to my equipment rack, which would require a bit of creative thinking in terms of equipment and cable positioning (some touching of power cables in this instance might be unavoidable). Thanks.
 

Sablon Audio

Industry Expert, VIP Donor
May 22, 2015
1,612
1,484
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Steve, longer power cords typically sound fuller but are looser in control. Likely cheaper and neater to have an extra wall socket wired up.
 

GrantS

Industry Expert
Oct 23, 2013
171
59
333
In sound quality terms, is much to be gained by keeping Shunyata power cables as short as possible? Using the most convenient wall socket for a Delta NR cable I am thinking of getting would require me to get a 10 foot cable. But a standard length cable would be fine if I used the wall socket nearest to my equipment rack, which would require a bit of creative thinking in terms of equipment and cable positioning (some touching of power cables in this instance might be unavoidable). Thanks.

The difference between a ten foot and a standard length would be negligible. In fact, if you are running to the wall, the longer length might be slightly preferred from a sound quality standpoint. There would be no inductive penalty because of the way our power cords are designed, so the longer length in this case may marginally outperform the shorter length ( the more separation between the wall-wire and component with better power cords can be of some benefit). Keep in mind that standard length cables are easier to re-sell in general than custom length power cords, but other than that caveat I see no strong reason to choose one length over another. I would choose the length that best suits your application. Be wary of causing a ground-loop hum if you are using outlets from multiple circuits or combining the use of a house ac line with a dedicated line.

Regards,

Grant
 

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