Which Theta did you buy, the NR or XC? I have three Sigmas now and I always use the XC. I have a Denali and I found when I used the NR with the Denali I lost some "edge" to the music, and what I mean by "edge" was definition, the "decay" of the notes, or the trailing off of the voice. So I went with all XC cables and find the combo of Denali and XC to be a great combo. I have ordered two Theta XC cables to replace to Venom X-EF. All in all, it will be an interesting experiment. I appreciate the insight and remarks, And how did you know I have an eight inch telescope? I am envious that you can see the separation of Saturn's rings. I am just happy to see the rings (or the Red Spot on Jupiter).
Shunyata Theta/Gamma Lines - Do they surpass the Delta/Venom of the previous generation?
- Thread starter Mcbrion
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Shunyata XC specification power cables are primarily designed for powering power distributors, so its no surprise that you preferred it in that application. The NR series of PCs are primarily designed to mitigate the noise generated by the internal power supplies of the components themselves, because their FWBR* power supplies can put out a LOT of impulse noise† and other audible noise factors when their rectifiers "slam shut" after pulling a lot of current during particularly dynamic or demanding musical passages. And, because it's AC, the current and it's associated noise components, can go back upstream to the source components. Remember: it's AC: alternating current. The current goes both ways: INTO your components, and back OUT of your components, in the USA at 60X/sec. It is NOT like water from a hose flowing in one direction, from the AC receptacle into the power supplies of your components. The purpose of the NR PCs is to mitigate the impact of these noise factors, including that generated by the components' FWBRs. See the reference cited below.
The general guidance from Shunyata is to use XC PCs for power distributors and NR PCs for amplifiers, preamps, and QR-s for DACs, etc. YMMV as to what you prefer though, so it's advisable to audition both specifications in your system to determine what works best for you.
*-FWBR: Full Wave Bridge Rectifier.
†– Useful reference on noise put out by components' FWBR power supplies: https://www.gcaudio.com/tips-tricks/why-power-cables-make-a-difference/
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The are two types of Shunyata "QR" PCs:
1) "QR" power cords are for amps.
2) "QR-s" specification PCs are for Sources. Hence the "-s" designation after "QR".
where do I request that Caelin turn his remarkable skills to creating a passive ethernet cleaner? Similar to what he has done for power conditioning/distribution. and where do I volunteer to be a beta tester? 
Bottom line is, you don't need a "passive Ethernet cleaner". Simply installing a Shunyata Ethernet cable will remove noise components that typically occur when using Ethernet cables (e.g. leakage current, common-mode noise, etc).where do I request that Caelin turn his remarkable skills to creating a passive ethernet cleaner? Similar to what he has done for power conditioning/distribution. and where do I volunteer to be a beta tester?
Another effective way to accomplish this, in addition to using the Shunyata Ethernet cables, is to install a short run of LC/LC optical fiber between your digital source and DAC or Streamer. The principal noise components in Ethernet cables are low- and high-source leakage impedance current (usually arising from SMPS) and installing run of optical, because it's not carrying a "voltage" will provide this functionality and prevent the passage of leakage current. You can install a couple "generic" fiber media convertors (FMC), from companies, e.g. the TP-link MC220L, that cost ~$20 or so. The optical transceivers plugged into these FMCs cost about $35-40/pair. The LC/LC optical fiber used, e.g. Tripp-Lite dual-mode or Corning single mode is also inexpensive as well. Even a 1M run will remove all these leakage impedance current and common-mode noise components.
Thanks. Once I began using the Grimm MU1, the nice FMC and LPS were removed (as were other active cleaners and their LPSs). Didn't have a benefit. (Now using an MU2 streamer/DAC).
But I'm assuming a purpose-built passive ethernet cleaner would be better than a cable. Just my assumption. The Muon Pro that I use is effective, but Shunyata seems to better the competition in many of their products.
Great discussion with lots of comparisons! Thanks guys!
I just received a Theta NR power cord last Saturday. My current top of the line cord was a Delta NR v2 connected from my Merason Frerot dac directly to a CopperConn wall outlet. I was hoping it would be just as good as the Delta v2. As you have attested, it is a giant killer! The Theta is amazing! The clarity, focus, deep bass, dynamics have all greatly increased. Vocals are much clearer and intelligible than ever before. Playing familiar songs reveal more background information and backing vocals pop out of the soundstage! Highly recommended!
I am waiting for reviews of the new Alpha X. I agree with many of you, that when you move up the Shunyata line you do hear greater improvements. However, Shunyata's new technologies often surpass older models even a step or two higher in price.
I just received a Theta NR power cord last Saturday. My current top of the line cord was a Delta NR v2 connected from my Merason Frerot dac directly to a CopperConn wall outlet. I was hoping it would be just as good as the Delta v2. As you have attested, it is a giant killer! The Theta is amazing! The clarity, focus, deep bass, dynamics have all greatly increased. Vocals are much clearer and intelligible than ever before. Playing familiar songs reveal more background information and backing vocals pop out of the soundstage! Highly recommended!
I am waiting for reviews of the new Alpha X. I agree with many of you, that when you move up the Shunyata line you do hear greater improvements. However, Shunyata's new technologies often surpass older models even a step or two higher in price.
Anyone had the chance to compare the Theta NR vs the Alpha (non X) NR V2? Curious if the Theta can reach the same level.
IIRC, you can rent them in from The Cable Company and find out for yourself in your system, in your room. That's how I've evaluated cables in the past.
Not that handy for me as I’m living in Paris unfortunately. As a matter of fact I’ve posed the question to John at thecableco and got his pov!
I am listening to a Theta XC right now direct to my amp. The impact was significant in a positive way. Dynamics especially are fantastic with this PC. Everything else benefited as well, overall great cable for the money. I could have spent alot more to get the effects I am hearing with the Theta. I am going to try the NR version next and put them on different piece in my system.
Replaced the stock factory power cord on my Coda amp with a Theta NR. Huge performance bump (dynamics, tonal and image delineation, and soundstage scale). What surprised me was the degree of improvement rendered by then replacing my Aurender server's Delta NR v2 with another Theta NR (which currently has only about 20 playback hours under its belt). Made the presentation with the Delta--good as it is-- sound "slow" and slightly veiled.
Mind sharing his pov regarding Theta / Alpha? Does he think Theta is on the Alpha (non-X) level?
The Theta speaker cables I have are outstanding.
I just saw this review in TAS for Theta line. I was planning on upgrading to Gamma but might have to reconsider.
Shunyata Research Theta Interconnects and Speaker Cables - The Absolute Sound
Shunyata Research Theta Interconnects and Speaker Cables - Neil Gader on Shunyata’s new cables that reset the price-to-performance ratio.
www.theabsolutesound.com
I just bought a pair of the new Theta XLR ICs and they are also superb.I just saw this review in TAS for Theta line. I was planning on upgrading to Gamma but might have to reconsider.
Shunyata Research Theta Interconnects and Speaker Cables - The Absolute Sound
Shunyata Research Theta Interconnects and Speaker Cables - Neil Gader on Shunyata’s new cables that reset the price-to-performance ratio.
BTW, if you need cables for "lesser" applications, e.g. a second system or components or equipment in another room, or for Home Theatre, etc. the new Gamma line is exceptional as well. I've got a full loom of Gamma in I'm presently writing a review for.
Look forward to your review. In a small home office system (with all Shunyata power products) I added a 2 meter Gamma power cord for a new REL T7x. Separately, my A/V technician modified my home theater system to provide for better 2 channel audio. Involved adding a Mac pre-amp with home theater pass- through. A neat trick. Added / replaced 3 power cords with Theta NR. They plugged into a Hydra Delta 6 which is fed by an Alpha XC V2. Also added a Gamma XC for ancillary components and the 4k set. Very happy so far. Worked with John at Cableco for all the Shunyata gear. The A/V technician is with a prominent Denver provider.
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