How to Save Money When Buying signal cable vs power cable

A few days ago, I had to take my Oppo BDP-203 out of the rack, and I noticed a few screws rolling around inside. As someone who once worked as an electronics technician and built various HeathKit products, I have always had a fascination with peeking inside my audio equipment. I had previously modified another Oppo player and an amplifier, so extracting a few screws seemed simple. However, fueled by the vivid prose of Bob Levi's review in Positive Feedback, where he described a "liquid elegance and fleshy musical beauty," I was inspired to investigate the cabling inside the IEC power connector on the back of the Oppo player.

The power that reaches your outlets in the home travels through wiring composed of either 12 or 14 gauge copper Romex wire, depending on the required amperage. This wire typically costs around $0.22 per foot. Inside your devices, you will find similar 12 or 14 gauge stranded wire, which likely has a comparable price point. Manufacturers of high-priced IEC power cords want you to believe that a six-foot cable containing numerous pure copper strands—each carefully coated and only touching at the final connection—will drastically enhance the analog or digital signals between your components. Claims stating that power cords can profoundly affect the fidelity of audio systems are as ludicrous as insisting that delivering the cable in a velvet bag within a handcrafted box would somehow impact the sound quality. Such assertions deserve skepticism, particularly from anyone who presents such 'evidence' and from any platform that chose to publish it.

Perhaps you have a surplus of cash and can afford to experiment with a high-end power cord, but if your goal is to genuinely enhance your audio system's fidelity, it's wise to be discerning with your funds. Avoid the suggestions by individuals like Bob H. Levi and sites like Positive Feedback, as they may not provide the best guidance for maintaining an efficient budget.

At Cables.com, we prioritize rigorous quality controls to ensure that our products meet both safety standards and customer expectations. Our suppliers possess certifications that guarantee adherence to high-quality regulations, and nearly all products are ROHS compliant. Inferior power cords or data cables can lead to serious issues such as overheating, data loss, electrical fires, and downtime due to poor performance. By choosing a reputable supplier for your cables, you not only secure quality but also the assurance of reliable support tailored to your specific cabling needs.

Moreover, reputable manufacturers offer custom cable solutions that may be necessary depending on your project requirements. These tailored cables can reduce clutter and enhance organization within your cabling space. If you require something specific that isn't visible on our website, simply reach out, and we'll accommodate your request. Opting for a cheaper alternative may ultimately cost more in damages than the savings initially seemed to offer, but it's assuring to note that quality doesn't always mean breaking the bank. Suppliers such as Cables.com provide top-notch options at competitive prices.

In summary, don't gamble with your audio or data needs; invest in quality by sourcing your cables from trusted suppliers. We have two decades of experience and a wealth of knowledge surrounding cable products and safety regulations, which is why our customers continually return for their power cord and data cable solutions.

Are you curious about the differences between signal cable vs power cable? Contact us today for an expert consultation!