AudioCircle
Audio/Video Gear and Systems => Critic's Circle (Equipment Reviews) => Cable Reviews => Topic started by: nature boy on 8 Mar 2009, 03:31 pm
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During the last several weeks, I have the opportunity to listen to
Kaplan Cables H.E. power cords in my system. The cords have proven to
be the single most significant and effective upgrade I have made to my
system in more than 25 years of listening :D, more to come but first
a little background on my system and listening room.
My audio system sonic goal is to recreate live recording events
realistically to my ears. I use vocal recordings, small jazz and folk
ensemble's, piano and acoustic recordings as a basis for evaluating my
system. About a year ago, I made a significant change in my
two-channel system moving from a solid state amplifier and Vandersteen
2CE signature speakers to a flea powered SET amplifier (Decware SE84CS
w/ EX Mod) and a pair of Hornshoppe Horns in my relatively small
listening room 17.5' x 13.5' x 7'.
Here is a link to my system components:
http://www.audiocircle.com/systems/index.php?systemid=47. All my
source equipment and preamp are plugged into a Felix power
conditioner, built by Gordy.
The SET amp and single-drive horns combination provides an utterly
revealing and very dynamic system as opposed to my previous
combination. After some initial listening to the Decware amp I did
some tube rolling and settled in on the following combination - a
Mullard GZ32 rectifier, Genalex Gold Lion EL84's (New Sensor reissues)
& Amperex 6922, preferring a warm, engaging presentation of vocals and
string instruments.
Everything sounded good, but a couple things nagged me about the
sound, some glare in the treble and a shallow depth of soundstage. I
was missing a realistic 3D holographic soundstage provided by the
Vandy's.
After consulting with a few AC members and friends, I finally decided
to put some new copper Kaplan Cable H.E. power cords on my amplifier
and CDP. I must confess, I haven't listened to a lot of high end
cords before. My system has included several VH Audio flavor 4 cords
(on my CDP and preamp), a Cable Research Lab (now FIM) cord on my
solid state amplifier.
To be perfectly frank, I simply wasn't prepared for the changes the
Kaplan cords imparted to my system. First, the music just sounded so
much more natural and there was a tremendous level of microdynamic
detail that I have never heard. Vocals became more relaxed, there is
a roundness to plucked nylon guitar strings, attack and decay of piano
notes were simply incredible, and the level of realism simply shot
through roof. It's really quite hard to put it all into words and it
was simply far more than I ever expected from simply changing out the
wires. The treble glare was gone and I had a 3 dimensional soundstage
in spades. But could I do even better I wondered?
I was so impressed with the cords, I contacted Paul Kaplan. Paul
suggested swapping out my ACME 15amp AC receptacles on my dedicated
lines (one for amp and one for source equipment & preamp) with Hubbell
5262 or 5362 receptacles and replacing the Volex cord on my Felix
power conditioner for even added improvement. Well, I took Paul's
advice, at least in part. I replaced the Volex cord on the Felix with
a Kaplan cord, this time with a rhodium termination. I also installed
a pair of JENA Labs 20 amp receptacles in on my dedicated AC lines,
instead of the Hubbell's.
Can anyone say sonic nirvana? Well I am happy to report that I have
finally found the kingdom of sonic nirvana and it is truly a blissful
place. :angel: :angel:
I try to do my best to avoid hyperbole in describing any consumer
products, but I am just so damn happy with the improvements the Kaplan
Cables power cords have made in my system. Being the audio cheapskate
I am, I just never thought an investment in wires would make such a
big difference. Well, you can now count me in the camp of the
converted.
There is also a tremendous synergy of Kaplan cables with the Jena Labs
& Hubbell outlets noted above, I understand that Paul voiced his
cables with the Hubbell 5262 AC outlets. I would strongly encourage
anyone interested in trying Kaplan cords to swap out their outlets
with the recommended Hubbell's or Jena Lab outlets.
The Kaplan Cable cords are 10 AWG copper, a bit thick and heavy but
very flexible. They are well constructed wrapped in a black techflex
cable sheething with black shrink wrapping around the male and female
terminations. Terminations provide tight, solid connections to AC
receptacles and IEC inlets on all my equipment.
Tweak Geeks (http://www.tweekgeek.com) offers Kaplan Cable H.E. 15 amp
cords, both with in-line power conditioners and without, also with
copper or rhodium terminations. Since I have a Felix power
conditioner I opted for the regular cords. If you don't use a power
conditioner, particularly for your CDP player, I highly encourage you
try one of the cords with an in-line conditioner.
Tweak Geeks offers a 30-day money back guarantee on all its products,
including the Kaplan Cable cords.
Something tells me that if you try the Kaplan Cable cords you won't be
returning yours. I've told my wife I want to be buried with my Kaplan
cords.
I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have to the best of my
ability. I will be traveling during the middle of this upcoming week
and without internet connectivity. In closing this one of the best
audio equipment purchases I have made, which to be honest simply
shocked the hell out of me.
NB
During the last several weeks, I have the opportunity to listen to Kaplan Cables H.E. power cords in my system. The cords have proven to be the single most significant and effective upgrade I have made to my system in more than 25 years of listening :D, more to come but first a little background on my system and listening room.
My audio system sonic goal is to recreate live recording events realistically to my ears. I use vocal recordings, small jazz and folk ensemble's, piano and acoustic recordings as a basis for evaluating my system. About a year ago, I made a significant change in my two-channel system moving from a solid state amplifier and Vandersteen 2CE signature speakers to a flea powered SET amplifier (Decware SE84CS w/ EX Mod) and a pair of Hornshoppe Horns in my relatively small listening room 17.5' x 13.5' x 7'.
Here is a link to my system components: http://www.audiocircle.com/systems/index.php?systemid=47. All my source equipment and preamp are plugged into a Felix power conditioner, built by Gordy.
The SET amp and single-drive horns combination provides an utterly revealing and very dynamic system as opposed to my previous combination. After some initial listening to the Decware amp I did some tube rolling and settled in on the following combination - a Mullard GZ32 rectifier, Genalex Gold Lion EL84's (New Sensor reissues) & Amperex 6922, preferring a warm, engaging presentation of vocals and string instruments.
Everything sounded good, but a couple things nagged me about the sound, some glare in the treble and a shallow depth of soundstage. I was missing a realistic 3D holographic soundstage provided by the Vandy's.
After consulting with a few AC members and friends, I finally decided to put some new copper Kaplan Cable H.E. power cords on my amplifier and CDP. I must confess, I haven't listened to a lot of high end cords before. My system has included several VH Audio flavor 4 cords (on my CDP and preamp), a Cable Research Lab (now FIM) cord on my solid state amplifier.
To be perfectly frank, I simply wasn't prepared for the changes the Kaplan cords imparted to my system. First, the music just sounded so much more natural and there was a tremendous level of microdynamic detail that I have never heard. Vocals became more relaxed, there is a roundness to plucked nylon guitar strings, attack and decay of piano notes were simply incredible, and the level of realism simply shot through roof. It's really quite hard to put it all into words and it was simply far more than I ever expected from simply changing out the wires. The treble glare was gone and I had a 3 dimensional soundstage in spades. But could I do even better I wondered?
I was so impressed with the cords, I contacted Paul Kaplan. Paul suggested swapping out my ACME 15amp AC receptacles on my dedicated lines (one for amp and one for source equipment & preamp) with Hubbell 5262 or 5362 receptacles and replacing the Volex cord on my Felix power conditioner for even added improvement. Well, I took Paul's advice, at least in part. I replaced the Volex cord on the Felix with a Kaplan cord, this time with a rhodium termination. I also installed a pair of JENA Labs 20 amp receptacles in on my dedicated AC lines, instead of the Hubbell's.
Can anyone say sonic nirvana? Well I am happy to report that I have finally found the kingdom of sonic nirvana and it is truly a blissful place. :angel: :angel:
I try to do my best to avoid hyperbole in describing any consumer products, but I am just so damn happy with the improvements the Kaplan Cables power cords have made in my system. Being the audio cheapskate I am, I just never thought an investment in wires would make such a big difference. Well, you can now count me in the camp of the converted.
There is also a tremendous synergy of Kaplan cables with the Jena Labs & Hubbell outlets noted above, I understand that Paul voiced his cables with the Hubbell 5262 AC outlets. I would strongly encourage anyone interested in trying Kaplan cords to swap out their outlets with the recommended Hubbell's or Jena Lab outlets.
The Kaplan Cable cords are 10 AWG copper, a bit thick and heavy but very flexible. They are well constructed wrapped in a black techflex cable sheething with black shrink wrapping around the male and female terminations. Terminations provide tight, solid connections to AC receptacles and IEC inlets on all my equipment.
Tweak Geeks (http://www.tweekgeek.com) offers Kaplan Cable H.E. 15 amp cords, both with in-line power conditioners and without, also with copper or rhodium terminations. Since I have a Felix power conditioner I opted for the regular cords. If you don't use a power conditioner, particularly for your CDP player, I highly encourage you try one of the cords with an in-line conditioner.
Tweak Geeks offers a 30-day money back guarantee on all its products, including the Kaplan Cable cords.
Something tells me that if you try the Kaplan Cable cords you won't be returning yours. I've told my wife I want to be buried with my Kaplan cords.
I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have to the best of my ability. I will be traveling during the middle of this upcoming week and without internet connectivity. In closing this one of the best audio equipment purchases I have made, which to be honest simply shocked the hell out of me.
NB
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Oops, the moderator may wish to move this to the cable reviews section. My bad.
NB
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Something tells me that if you try the Kaplan Cable cords you won't be returning yours. I've told my wife I want to be buried with my Kaplan cords.
Now that is hard core. :D
Very nice review. They do work well, I have them on all my gear in various combination's and Paul won't be getting them back. :)
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I have a radically different system (RAW Acoustics RA-8 speakers, Promitheus DAC and TVC, Alan Maher power extender, AKSA Lifeforce 55 amp) and just got a copper Kaplan PC installed on my amp. The improvement in the sound of my system was just as dramatic, and musically satisfying as noted above. Dynamics, low end extension and control, sound staging, and clarity in the mids and highs all improved, with no down side what so ever. I too have experimented with a modest assortment of high value but modestly priced PCs, and I've noticed some very subtle differences from one to another. The changes afforded by the Kaplan are much more significant. These things are the real deal. I was just contemplating heading over the Aspen Amps circle and encouraging everyone there to try one of these PCs. I can't imagine anyone being disappointed.
Neil
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Great review!
Sometime I need to sit down and write my own review of the Kaplan Cords (both conditioner and regular).
My whole system is now using Kaplan cords and pretty soon it will be the conditioner cords across the board! aa
George
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Hi. I visited Tweek Geek and typed in Kaplan Cable H.E. 15 amp cords and got a message that they could not locate. Can someone please be of help to me locating these? Thanks.
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Try http://www.tweekgeek.com/_e/dept/01-004-011/Kaplan_Cables.htm and click on the HE Cord for variations.
Regards,
Will
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Thanks WG, took me right there but, damn, I hadn't realized how much they are. I've got active speaks and it is on these I am considering. Seriously, are these supposed to save you the cost of a power conditioner or something?
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Jim,
I did purchase 2 of the 3amp HE Rhodiums for my main speaker amps. The 3amp are recommended for amps with the 15amp versions other components. These particular cords are conditioning cords. The less expensive cord shown is not a per se conditioning cord, but a very good sounding cord nontheless. I had not done much on PC's previously, but these did make quite a difference on my Class D amps. My mains (panel and woofer module) now are running through an active crossover/equalizer, but the panels are currently using a passive crossover. I do have a fully active crossover, but these then would be 4-ways. I have run them that way with less expensive amps previously, but do like how things are sounding now.
What are your actives? What size amps are you running and how many channels? Paul Kaplan, Occam here, might be able to offer you some ideas on this. Tweekgeek is his distributor. Mike there will work with you to send out cables for you to evaluate. In such case, he'll take a credit card as insurance, but is very good about letting you evaluate. If they don't float your boat, you can return them.
Regards,
Will
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Hi Will- Thank you for your reply. My speakers are the last version of Meridian M20's. They are stand mounted with 5" over and under drivers and a 1" tweeter. They use KEF drivers. They were Meridian's high end model of the day which I bought new some 20 years ago. The tweeters are driven by 35W inboard amps and the mid/bass drivers by 75W inboard amps. The delivery of the signal by both amps is time aligned in the crossover before the amps. They go deeper and play louder cleanly than you would assume from the description I'm giving you. They replaced Acoustat Three's driven by 150W monoblocks cause they have more dynamic life and actually sound very similar in balance and wholeness. They image and stage with the best. I preamp with an ARC LS7. The factory power cables from my speakers are the same size as my pre. They don't look like a big deal, in other words. My dedicated room is on the small to medium side. The speakers are well placed out from the live end of my room with absorptive panels only at the first reflection points along the side walls. The wall behind my seat has diffusion treatment and is about 4' from my ears. You only asked what kind of actives I have but I thought I would give you the whole shebang.
I recently purchased a power conditioner and everything is plugged into it except the speakers are plugged into the bypass outlets. Anything you might care to share with me further is highly appreciated.
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The 3amp are recommended for amps with the 15amp versions other components.
I think its generally the other way around. The 15A (actually rated to 17A) version is recommended for power amps and in general analog components. The 3A version seemed to be more suited to digital components, offering higher inductive filtering. Maybe your class D amps need the additional filtering the 3A offers.
In my system the 15A version powers my tube and SS amps, with the 3A feeding my 2 digital sources.
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Mj, do you use a power conditioner on top of that? If so, notice much difference when it is out?
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Mjoseph is correct--I have the 15 amp version not the 3 amp. I apologize for the misinformation.
Regards,
Will
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I have the 15A and 3A both feeding quad outlet boxes, my components are then plugged into the respective outlets. No need for me to use any further conditioning.
My next step up might be to have individual conditioning for the two amps I use in a bi-amp configuration, right now its both amps being fed by a single 15A conditioner.
Hah...its a no turning back situation, ie going without the conditioning, once I heard the improvement across the board with the conditioning...going back is like the difference between watching a HD video feed and a SD video feed. My apt. has an old school fuse panel. However I have the use of a dedicated line(the AC line). YMWV.
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Thanks. I'm tryin to get a single component to do all that w/o having to add expensive grade cables on top of that not to mention a dedicated line. The new conditioner I've added isn't the night and day difference being described to the Kaplans above, tho. Wish it were. Hence my inquiry.
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Jim,
Sadly, even a great conditioner is strongly affected by the cord feeding it and well as the cord supping from it. This is why my conditioners are built into cords. And I certainly see why one might think adequate conditioning should obviate any need for bespoke cords.
But if you're looking for the maximal bang for the buck power delivery effort, that is also synergistic with other power upgrades like cords, dedicated circuits and/or conditioners, change your outlets if you have the typical residential or commercial grade powering your system, to Hubbell 5262 (for 15a circuits) or Hubbell HBL5362 (for 20a circuits).
If you want the former, in any color as long as it is brown, its available (Thanks MarkC!) for $4 ($5-automatic 20% discount for just thinking the phrase 'Kaplan Cables are groovy' 3 times rapidly :o) + scrupulously honest shipping charges, just order from the charming folks at -
http://store.electricsurplusstore.com/product.php?xProd=1263
Some folks prefer them other fancy, audiophile receptacles, I don't. I voiced my cords and conditioners with the Hubbell HBL5262. If someone wants to argue that outlets can't make a difference unless they're broken, you mustn't value your time very much to argue about a frigg'n $4 specification grade outlet. C'mon Mikey, try it, you'll like it.
There are cryoed versions of the Hubbell HBL5362 from Jenalabs, Alan Kafton and the cryoed HBL8300H (unplated brass contacts and backstrap) aka Porter Port. But they cost many multiples of that $4 and the benefits of cryo can be very system dependant.
Regards,
Paul
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Jim,
Sadly, even a great conditioner is strongly affected by the cord feeding it and well as the cord supping from it. This is why my conditioners are built into cords. And I certainly see why one might think adequate conditioning should obviate any need for bespoke cords.
But if you're looking for the maximal bang for the buck power delivery effort, that is also synergistic with other power upgrades like cords, dedicated circuits and/or conditioners, change your outlets if you have the typical residential or commercial grade powering your system, to Hubbell 5262 (for 15a circuits) or Hubbell HBL5362 (for 20a circuits).
If you want the former, in any color as long as it is brown, its available (Thanks MarkC!) for $4 ($5-automatic 20% discount for just thinking the phrase 'Kaplan Cables are groovy' 3 times rapidly :o) + scrupulously honest shipping charges, just order from the charming folks at -
http://store.electricsurplusstore.com/product.php?xProd=1263
Some folks prefer them other fancy, audiophile receptacles, I don't. I voiced my cords and conditioners with the Hubbell HBL5262. If someone wants to argue that outlets can't make a difference unless they're broken, you mustn't value your time very much to argue about a frigg'n $4 specification grade outlet. C'mon Mikey, try it, you'll like it.
There are cryoed versions of the Hubbell HBL5362 from Jenalabs, Alan Kafton and the cryoed HBL8300H (unplated brass contacts and backstrap) aka Porter Port. But they cost many multiples of that $4 and the benefits of cryo can be very system dependant.
Regards,
Paul
How do you voice a power cord or conditioner to an AC outlet?
If your power cords and conditioners are voiced to the Hubbell HBL5262 for optimum performance, why don't you included them?
IMO, power cords or conditioners shouldn't have a "voice."
They can eliminate or reduce noise/RF/RMI etc..., but they shouldn't add a "voice."
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Yo, Pauly, I got $4 dollars and thankfully my wife had my lil room painted a dark taupe or something for my birthday. I'm daunted to think about the cords supping it, tho. I very much appreciate your reply. Jhm, I can relate to your question.
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I've been happily enjoying 2 of the copper and 1 of the Rhodium PCs in my systems for a couple of months now. I've just ordered another of the Rhodiums. Once I get that, I'll write up something more formal. Running mono amps, I want to be able to try Rhodiums on the amps, copper on the pre, and the other way around to get a firm handle on the differences.
What I can say is that both the copper and the rhodiums are a significant step up in performance and posses a lot of the characteristics of much more expensive and 'well known' PCs.
A happy customer.
Bryan
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I've been happily enjoying 2 of the copper and 1 of the Rhodium PCs in my systems for a couple of months now. I've just ordered another of the Rhodiums. Once I get that, I'll write up something more formal. Running mono amps, I want to be able to try Rhodiums on the amps, copper on the pre, and the other way around to get a firm handle on the differences.
What I can say is that both the copper and the rhodiums are a significant step up in performance and posses a lot of the characteristics of much more expensive and 'well known' PCs.
A happy customer.
Bryan
Bryan,
FWIW, I went with a pair of 15 amp Rhodiums on my Atma-Sphere MA-1's and used 3amp Copper on the Modwright Transporter and Plinius M8 preamp.
I felt that combination gave me the best performance.
George
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I asked Paul to help me rewire my dedicated 20amp feed from the panel. Beat that! :thumb:
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I asked Paul to help me rewire my dedicated 20amp feed from the panel. Beat that! :thumb:
NICE!! :thumb:
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Thanks George.
My point is you can buy bulk wire as well. :thumb: Well, I may have to ask Paul if this is ok to post.
I can almost hear my phone ringing now :oops:
--Levi
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Thanks George.
My point is you can buy bulk wire as well. :thumb: Well, I may have to ask Paul if this is ok to post.
I can almost hear my phone ringing now :oops:
--Levi
Given that it took 220+ feet of 10 gauge Romex for my dedicated 20 amp line, I don't think I will be going in this direction. :o
George
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220+ feet. :o That would be lots of cable however not impossible. Just expensive. :)
I am still on the planning stages. Perhaps, Paul should be the one to announce if he sells bulk cable. I only need @35' feet.
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Levi,
I don't sell my raw cable. What I had thought we were planning for you was a really long extention cord, a 35' powercord terminating in a rather nice dual duplex outlet box.
Many of us find ourselves in rental properties and are simply unable to install dedicated lines where we want, and end up seeking a way of using a dedicated or at least minimally compromised AC circut located across the apartment. I built an example of this last month for an apartment dweller, an initial 25' cord to a 4plex, which had another 8' cord exiting, that terminated in a second 4plex. All duplex outlets were my favorite HBL5x62 s. This allowed him to power his Wavestream V-8 monoblocs and some ancillaries from the first 4plex and locate the other 4plex on the other side of his very long equipment racks, powering his source components. This simplification of his power delivery, in the opinions of all who have heard it, was that in engineering terms, everything was simply mo' betta. It also allowed him far more flexibility in routing powercords and choice in how long he needed those cords to be. Not a small consideration for those who consider my cords, 'inexpensive', as it allows them to economize on the costly lengths of their componet's power cords. :?
I hope you'll be pleased with improvements. You've been insulting my darling H.E. powercords by feeding them with that nasty Home Depot extention cord :P, and I thank you for rectifying the indignity.
Regards,
Paul
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Paul,
if one were to try one of your creations as a "toe test", where would you suggest? Source, pre, amp(s)? I run a transport, dac, pre and mono blocks. Dac is tube output, pre is tube and amps are hybrid mosfet.
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Thanks Paul for the clarification. I am glad that there is a great solution to improve power deliver to my components even for Apartment dwellers like me. :thumb:
"Life is Good" and "Ignorance is a bliss" :)
Be well,
--Levi
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Paul,
if one were to try one of your creations as a "toe test", where would you suggest? Source, pre, amp(s)? I run a transport, dac, pre and mono blocks. Dac is tube output, pre is tube and amps are hybrid mosfet.
That's a hard question. If your tube equipment takes a long time to come 'on song' or has an automatic stabilization period mute (like my CAT SL-1 pre) quick switch comparisons become more difficult. Longer term comparisons are not as dependant on that. Transports (unless slaved to a dac via wordclock, or brutally ASRCed by the dac) are very powercord responsive. Go figure...
I've not really answered your question, although I found that I'd written a Grey Paper on how I subjectively test powercords and what I specifically listen for. That has been exorcised, as non responsive, to be put in the Industry whatever thread.
You should test the cords on all your components, so at minimum you need at least a pair of cords with the same terminations in order to test them on your amps. (actually, if your pre has a mono switch, better yet, with a balance control, you can compare different cords for (perceived) differences with two different powercords feeding the monoblocs) If you have that pair of cords, and you're not making poweramp comparisons,you can also compare, on your sources, how the cords react individually, and in concert.
FWIW,
Paul
PS - and obviously, before making any powercord evaluation, one should make those minimal efforts to put their AC receptacle 'house' in order.
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The best configuration I've been able to come up with is amps to bypass sockets on the conditioner; DAC via the RFI deluxe power cord into conditioner; everything else using their own cord (my preamp has a captive cord) into the conditioner. A Hubbell 15a wall outlet should be arriving very soon. The conditioner will plug into that. Sounding pretty good.
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Recently had a chance to hear a cord that paul made with a neutrik connector for a friend who was trying it on his audience power conditioner (teflon model). i was over to listen to some interconnects between a new transport and dac, but we thought we would also listen to the difference in the power cord between the kaplan and the e powerchord that comes with the audience. the kaplan was not broken in because my friend has no way to put a neutrik connected cord on the cable cooker. we started with some familiar music that i play on my system and i did not think that things sounded quite right -- but it could have been the new dac/transport. substituted the kaplan cord and things got better. things just sounded more in place. better extension and definition and just overall a nicer presentation. (it was a rhodium terminated cord). at least in my friend's system it noticeably improved the audience conditioner. more than a subtle difference.
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I've been experimenting with 2 of the copper cords and 2 of the others. All 4 are outstanding and a tremendous value for the money. Personally, in my system, the coppers work best on my amps with the others sitting on my preamp and conditioner for the source equipment.
The coherence and solidity of the sound is vastly improved. There is a 'life' to the system now that simply wasn't there before.
This is by far one of the best improvements in my system for the money that I've had in quite a while.
Bryan
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I've been experimenting with 2 of the copper cords and 2 of the others. All 4 are outstanding and a tremendous value for the money. Personally, in my system, the coppers work best on my amps with the others sitting on my preamp and conditioner for the source equipment.
The coherence and solidity of the sound is vastly improved. There is a 'life' to the system now that simply wasn't there before.
This is by far one of the best improvements in my system for the money that I've had in quite a while.
Bryan
Brian what cords did they replace ? BTW good luck Paul, its not easy out there. However from what I've heard through the grapevine you have hit the nail on the head. I think its time for me to try one. Hint hint.
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I've had a variety of different cords in the system. Also, I've been experimenting on a 2nd system that I have in my living room so it was stock 12ga captive cords on Acoustat tube amps until I had the mods done.
I had tried the Audience cords which were a nice improvement but nothing like this. I'm probably going to take all 4 over to RSquires house sometime and play on his system and see what they do. (Odyssey TOTL monos, Dynaudio Confidence C2, Odyssey Candella, Bolder SB3, BPT battery power supply, etc.)
Haven't had much time to listen to them on my other system which is similar to Rick's but mine has the Statement Bolder mod and I run a Korato preamp and Dynaudio Contour 3.3's
Bryan
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Thanks for the reply.
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Many thanks to all for posting their impressions on this thread; especially to those who've based those opinions on actually hearing my cords and conditioners. :thumb:
The Tweekgeek.com website should soon have the KaplanCable H.E. extension box listed [ my powercord terminated with a dual duplex receptacles in a diecast aluminum box], and hopefully a review from one or both of my beta customers.
Thanks to all,
Paul
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I've been using the 20amp copper on my ASR power supplies and a 3 amp conditioning cord(copper) on my MW TP. I prob. have about 150hrs or so on them... Very nice cables - they made a nice improvement on the ASR(more body and sweetness) - the 3amp conditioning sounds good too. I used to have the MW plugged into an RSA Jaco but sold it before I got the Kaplan cable - I only need 1 conditioned outlet so the Kaplan was perfect. Everything sounds very good and I have no desire for further cable experimentation :D
Tony
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Tony,
Thanks for the review. Short and concise. But where is the purple prose, the hyperbole?
...... Everything sounds very good and I have no desire for further cable experimentation :D
Tony
But the beta version of my new speaker cables are almost ready to ship to you.... They are amazing and will make me an audiophile legend (in my own mind :roll:) 8)
Thanks again,
Paul
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Tony,
Thanks for the review. Short and concise. But where is the purple prose, the hyperbole?
...... Everything sounds very good and I have no desire for further cable experimentation :D
Tony
But the beta version of my new speaker cables are almost ready to ship to you.... They are amazing and will make me an audiophile legend (in my own mind :roll:) 8)
Thanks again,
Paul
WOO HOO :D :D
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Interesting...any overview info you can share with us about the SC's Paul? Without spilling too many of the beans that is....
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I just bought 2 of Paul's 15A (Rhodium) conditioner cables. Love them!! I use them at my sources (pre and DAC) but since they are 15A I have the flexibility to later try them on the amps (Spectron monos). They took about a week to fully break in (not bad) and to my ears have the slight organic "you are there" air and wetness I love in the Cardas non-ferrite GR cables yet the dynamics and black background that I heard (or more appropriately didn't hear) when George brought his over to demo a few weeks ago. Very nice Paul. :thumb:
XLR interconnects? :D
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Interesting...any overview info you can share with us about the SC's Paul? Without spilling too many of the beans that is....
They're quite beefy, covered with the (rather nice IMO) black cloth sleeving I use on my powercords. 1/2" x 1"/side, but very flexible.
Standard configuration will be for bi-wired speakers with a choice of bfa(Z plugs) and/or spades. On request, they can be configured for single, or tri-wired speakers. Thats about all I'm going to say on a technical side, as to try and explain what I think is going on, would require what I refer to as unsubstantatied technical speculation / twaddle ... (others might call it a Technical Whitepaper) :o.
I'm currently listening to a single run on each channel replacing my Black Orpheus tri-wire harness between my AKSA Soraya and Alon IVs, and subjectively I'd say -
Its got a great beat, and you can dance to it.
Images like a sum'bitch.
Meaty beaty, big and bouncy.
Provides a cavernous, accurate soundstage (when its on the recording).
Tonally extended, dynamic, resolving.... I do go on. :roll:
and these characteristics hold up at low listening volumes. My system has never sounded so good [My wife agrees, and that from 2 rooms away :lol:].
I've one pair out on test now, and perhaps he might post.
Next week I hope to hear them on Hansen Princes, driven by Wavestream V8s.
I'll start a thread in the Industry section asking for beta testers.
FWIW,
Paul
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Ted,
Many thanks for the comments.
XLR interconnects?
Not anytime soon. It took over a year to develop my powercords. Same for the speaker cables, and I assume it will be similar for interconnects, if I'm lucky. I've some initial designs, but right now, I've nothing that I consider special and pushing the price performance envelope. Until I can do so, I'll not be offering interconnects.
Regards,
Paul
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Ted,
I have the Rhodium 15 amp Kaplan's on my Spectrons--each running stereo on my AA Beethoven's. I do not have experience with other post market cords, but these made a significant difference with my Spectron's.
I am also a big fan of Paul's HE Extension box with filtering. I have the copper version of it. I have the Elpac power supply for the crossover/equalizer for the mains connected to it (wonderful and immediate results), the MusicVault II server, another Kaplan unfiltered copper from my Cary SLP-05, and another Kaplan unfiltered rhodium from MW Transporter. The results exceeded my expectations.
Regards,
Will
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Occam....
But the beta version of my new speaker cables are almost ready...
...... 8)
I'll start a thread in the Industry section asking for beta testers....
.............. :thumb:
Glad your keeping busy Paul.... :beer:
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I have five Kaplan rhodium HE's in my system now and have been "extremely" pleased with them :thumb: I tried the copper terminated cord, but it was a touch dull at the top end in my system.... but I could see how it would be great in a slightly brighter system and it certainly has a beautifully rich mid-range.
I find the rhodiums to be extremely transparent.... indeed, exceptional for their cost, with a delightfully "airy" and extended HF extension.... female singers really "shout out" now in a very good, lively and dynamic way. Bass is defined, tight and natural.
I believe my favorite property of the Kaplans is soundstaging delinearity, where it places everything where it should be and nothing happens before its appropriate.... unlike some other cords that seem to get confused, muddled and throw everything at you inappropriately.
Anyways.... I like em aa
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Some good news: it seems new Kaplan GS Power Cords are available through Tweekgeek.
Some bad news: the new Kaplan GS Power Cords start at $1995 for a 5' length. The matching GS series speaker cables start at $1795 for a 6' pair.
Some potentially good news: Tweekgeek seems to be offering a trade-in deal on the GS series power cords. So when all our rich friends trade their HE cords for GS cords, maybe there will be a flood of low priced HE cords released onto the Audio Circle marketplace.
Some undeniably good news: Occam really seems to have hit the big time, commanding big-time prices! Congratulations.
Chad
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The GS is a significant step up, at least in my system. I did the tradeup thing for all of mine prior to using them at RMAF. If you liked the HE, you'll love the GS.
Bryan
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Chad,
Apologies for the erroneous pricing on the Tweekgeek.com site If you look at the KaplanCable general page, you'll see the introductory pricing of the GS power cords is $1,495 for a 6' cord.
http://www.tweekgeek.com/mfg_dept.aspx?mfg_id=1230583540
Unfortuneately, the specific info din't carry through to the order page where it still lists the full pricing of $2,195 for a 6' cord. I'll get Mike to fix it.
We've tried to soften the blow somewhat. As we no longer have the intro pricing of the original H.E. cords and have set them to the full retail of $479 for a 6', we offer a 137% trade in credit applied to an upgrade to the GS (Gobsmacked), If you purchased a 6' H.E. cord for the introductory price of $349, you are credited with the full retail price of $479 towards the GS power cord.
I can only suggest to anyone that they compare the new GS cables, both power cord and speaker cable to other cables at similar and far higher prices and to draw their own conclusions.
Many thanks,
Paul
KaplanCable
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Paul,
There's little detail info nor pictures on these on Tweekgeek. Could you share a bit more here on what is different on these? Filtering?
Thanks,
Will
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Will,
The bad news is that while the H.E. cords are very flexible and easy to route, the new GS cords are inflexible and a right pain in the arse to route., still very flexible, especially considering their size and bulk. I've added an actual twist to their implementation that doesn't change the geometric and electromagnetic relationships between the wires, preserving their performance.
I don't particularly like telling others what they'll hear, and would prefer letting others to make their own evaluations. But here goes anywhay -
The GS cords simply allow you to hear deeper into the recording. It extends farther at both ends of the spectrum, but the bass isn't bloated, and the treble is free of grit and doesn't make you wish to cover your ears to prevent that icepick from being driven into you eardrums.
And the midrange is CLEAR, Spooky, actually. I'm about to lapse into that annoying hyperbole of 'you hear things you hadn't realized were on the recording'. And iff'n its in the recording, the soundstaging is cavernous. If not, it simply reflects the natural venue, or the engineers machinations. The imaging is IMO, spot on, not as holgraphic as some, but for me, more realistic.
The diffferences between the copper and rhodium terminations are still there; the rhodium being clearer and the copper warmer. In my system, I prefer a single rhodium cord on my power amp, and copper on everything else, just like I do with the H.E. cords. Others will prefer more rhodiums, depending on the voicing of their systems and their subjective metrics.
Apologies for the very subjective nature of my comments, and obviously, I'm clearly not a dispassionate reviewer.
Perhaps others who've used both the H.E.and GS cords, Mike Galusha, Bryan Pape and/or Martin Joseph might chime in.
Regards,
Paul
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The GS betters the HE in all areas across the spectrum. More refined, better details, deeper and wider soundstage, better tonality(more accurate), deeper/tighter bass, more fluidity, ...etc, etc. :roll:
Combined with the GS speaker cable, another dimension opens up and you(me) feel like I am inside the music, like a kid running along the corridors between the notes. :drool:
:lol:
Above impressions are solely those of this poster.
Results may vary, others may not have the same experience...side effects include nausea, morning depression, some ringing in the left ear and diarrhoea. Consult your spouse before committing.
The Heptones, crystal blue persuasion
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Will,
The bad news is that while the H.E. cords are very flexible and easy to route, the new GS cords are inflexible and a right pain in the arse to route. Others have told me that that not particularly worse than the typical audiophile 'big mutha' cords. I've encountered cords that are far worse, but personally, I miss the fleibility of the H.E. cords.
I don't particularly like telling others what they'll hear, and would prefer letting others to make their own evaluations. But here goes anywhay -
The GS cords simply allow you to hear deeper into the recording. It extends farther at both ends of the spectrum, but the bass isn't bloated, and the treble is free of grit and doesn't make you wish to cover your ears to prevent that icepick from being driven into you eardrums.
And the midrange is CLEAR, Spooky, actually. I'm about to lapse into that annoying hyperbole of 'you hear things you hadn't realized were on the recording'. And iff'n its in the recording, the soundstaging is cavernous. If not, it simply reflects the natural venue, or the engineers machinations. The imaging is IMO, spot on, not as holgraphic as some, but for me, more realistic.
The diffferences between the copper and rhodium terminations are still there; the rhodium being clearer and the copper warmer. In my system, I prefer a single rhodium cord on my power amp, and copper on everything else, just like I do with the H.E. cords. Others will prefer more rhodiums, depending on the voicing of their systems and their subjective metrics.
Apologies for the very subjective nature of my comments, and obviously, I'm clearly not a dispassionate reviewer.
Perhaps others who've used both the H.E.and GS cords, Mike Galusha, Bryan Pape and/or Martin Joseph might chime in.
Regards,
Paul
Well...I'm just glad I picked up the H.E. cords at the price I did. They are really quite excellent, and bested a VH Audio Flavor 4. The new stuff, well...I can only read about at this point :oops:.
Anand.
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Woodsyi,
Thanks for fixing my original post. I have been trying my best to make my original review re-materialize with help from both you and Paul, unfortunately to no avail.
My review stands as posted and someone will have to pry these cables from my "dead cold hands" before I take them out of my system. The only power cords I could think of for replacement/upgrade would be Kaplan GS Power Cables :eyebrows:
Thanks again Woodsyi for help to resolve this technical dilemna.
NB
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Hello,
how does the Kaplan HE compare to the VH Audio Flavor 4 (or the lessloss, if anyone has heard both of them) in terms of dynamics?
I read Markl's review of 22 different power cords and was left really liking the Violet by how he described them, but liking the Virtual Dynamics Nite II and Bohica even more. Alas, both of them are not in production anymore and they're very hard to find used.
The VH Flavor 4 is superior to the Violet, according to this post: http://db.audioasylum.com/cgi/m.mpl?forum=cables&n=123439&highlight=Bob+Mc
Here is Markl's shootout: http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f21/its-done-power-cord-shoot-out-22-power-cords-reviewed-219202/
Notice how he described the Nite II (especially his emphasis on solidity), but also the Bohica, with its lack of "diggititis". I'm searching for a power cord that goes beyond the Nite II and Bohica, but that costs less than 600 dollars.
I'm currently stuck between the Lessloss, Vh Audio Flavor 4, and the Kaplan (although comparisons are harder to find for this).
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Nautilus,
Having now lived with both the VH Audio Flavor 4 and Kaplan H.E. I have made some comparisons. Bear in mind, I have one of the most dynamic loudspeakers out there, the GedLee Abbey. High efficiency and able to play in excess of 115dB SPL easily.
Between the Kaplan H.E. and VH Audio Flavor 4 there is no contest. The Kaplan H.E. is a superior cable. Smoother, and more detailed, with more macrodynamics than I need! Slowly I am supplanting my power cables with Kaplan.
I really didn't think cables made a difference. Well, I'll still say they make little difference compared to speakers and the room, with one exception, Kaplan. I use the Kaplan H.E. on my main amp, a gainclone and my RAKK dac which is a DA converter. My system does not contain a preamp. I get all the details! If the recording is good, the result is a truly sublime performance with 110dB hitting your chest hard. And you know what the gainclone hardly gets warm :lol: That's only 40 watts into 8 ohms.
Enough said before I make myself sound like a hypocritical arse. Which I guess I am in some ways. Others with more experience should chime in for ya.
Anand.
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I would have to agree with Anand.... I've had all three and in my system there's no competition. I found the Lessloss much better than the Flavor 4, but the Kaplan rhodium was in a different league. Surprised on the Flavor 4 being better than the Violet.... mind you from what I remember, I only had gold wattgates or something fitted.... connectors can make quite the difference.
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Thanks Anand, and thanks Owen :D
I'm now a 100% sure that I'm going to buy the Kaplan H.E.s for my new headphone system in the following weeks :D
-nautilus
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For those of you who have the conditioner version of the Kaplan H.E Power Cord, I have an inexpensive tweak that you can try - replace the stock fuse with a cryo'd ceramic fuse from Lee at Cyroparts (http://www.cryo-parts.com/fuses.html).
I have tried this with the 3 amp conditioner cord and felt that there was an audible improvement.
The fuses are inexpensive (under $15 each) and Lee is a pleasure to deal with, so you really don't have much to lose.
George
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For those of you who have the conditioner version of the Kaplan H.E Power Cord, I have an inexpensive tweak that you can try - replace the stock fuse with a cryo'd ceramic fuse from Lee at Cyroparts (http://www.cryo-parts.com/fuses.html).
I have tried this with both the 3 amp and 15 amp conditioner cords and in both cases I felt that there was an audible improvement.
The fuses are inexpensive (under $15 each) and Lee is a pleasure to deal with, so you really don't have much to lose.
George
Great idea George. What size/values are they?
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Thanks George. Mine does not have a fuse great idea though.
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Hi George,
Is the 3amp a slow blow or fast blow fuse?
Joe
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For those of you who have the conditioner version of the Kaplan H.E Power Cord, I have an inexpensive tweak that you can try - replace the stock fuse with a cryo'd ceramic fuse from Lee at Cyroparts (http://www.cryo-parts.com/fuses.html).
I have tried this with the 3 amp conditioner cord and felt that there was an audible improvement.
The fuses are inexpensive (under $15 each) and Lee is a pleasure to deal with, so you really don't have much to lose.
George
Guys,
Had a senior moment last night, so need to make a quick correction. :duh:
I only replaced the fuse on the 3 amp conditioner cord. The 15 amp conditioner cord does not have a fuse.
I used a 3 amp, 1.25" (~32mm--"standard" size) deep cryogenically treated "slo-blow" 250v ceramic bodied fuse.
Again, sorry about the mistake.
George
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Thanks George!