Power your hi-fi system

This is really an interesting area of hifi, if you are looking at these types of products make sure you do your research and make sure the manufacturer or retailer is willing to let you try it out for yourself. Ultimately it is up to the individual,  Those who take their audio (or music) system and hobby seriously should pay attention to the power. Before buying products you should first make sure you have connected everything « correctly ».

IDENTIFY CORRECT PHASE

Power to your audio system is as important as the cabling in between the components (interlinks).  A different power cable can have influence the sound experience. Before trying different power cords ensure you have installed them correctly.

Connect the phase of all power cords correctly. The most accepted explanation in the audio world is that it gives a wrong phase ‘relatively large leakage current which will run as a strain on your power (distortion).  To ensure all equipment is connected phase correct there are different methods

The common standard

Common standard is shown in the picture below. The phase is marked by the red circle. In some countries (like Netherlands) the power plug can be inserted phase inverted too. (2 ways to connect the plug into the power socket) Therefore it is best to measure the phase before connecting

Using your ears

If you have many components this can be a complex process. Before you start, make at least sure that all cables are connected in the official way.

Measuring method 1

To measure the phase on your power cord is not difficult:

1. Plug your power-cord into the wall-socket and do not connect the IEC  connector.
2. Use a voltage tester screwdriver to check on what pin the phase is. The lamp in the screwdrive on is the correct phase)

Measuring method 2

You need a multimeter, a grounded outlet and a non-grounded outlet (or acheater wire).

Disconnect all wires (interlinks and power cord included) components from each other.
Connect only one component to an unearthed outlet, or take a test power cable and disconnect earth*. Still not connected to the others.
Meaure the voltage that exists between the earthed outlet’s earth and the chassis of the component you’re measuring.
Reverse the schuko connector and measure again..
The lowest measured voltage indicates the correct phase.

Power Distribution Unit

The order of the cables may also influence the performance of your system. The most recommended order is to start powering the power amplifier (1) and preamplifier and/or DAC (2) and the least the sources (3 and up)

You could also try to use a cable without the « earth pin » connected to power your amplifier. Some claim to have better results.

There is no such thing as the « best cable » or only one correct solution.

*Earth Connection

By disconnecting the earth wire, you are removing an essential electrical safety measure — never do it!