AudioCircle

Industry Circles => ZenWave Audio => Topic started by: DaveC113 on 16 May 2019, 06:05 pm

Title: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 16 May 2019, 06:05 pm
I'm excited to announce ZenWave Audio's new power cable!  :D

This cable is intended to be an all-out, no-holds-barred, cost-no-object power cable that is CLEARLY better vs top of the line copper power cables such as Furutech's DPS-4 and my own PL11 cable. It has a very vivid and dynamic effect that will highlight the shortcomings of other power cables and make you reconsider how much difference in sound is possible due to AC power delivery. It makes the DPS-4 sound colored, slow and a bottleneck to dynamics, both macro and micro.

I've been wanting to offer a UPOCC silver power cable for a long time now, but making a PC using the same wire as my D4 line of interconnect cables would simply cost too much. With the silver ribbon conductors I can now add a UPOCC silver power cable I am happy with in all areas... the silver ribbon geometry adds a touch of warmth round UPOCC silver wire does not have, and it costs A LOT less than UPOCC silver/gold alloy. Part of this is less overall wire is required, the ribbon type wire can be made larger gauge without the same negative effects as round wire. This also requires less teflon, which is a major expense when using small gauge round wire, in fact with UPOCC copper it costs more than the copper does, and adds a significant expense to smaller gauge silver. 

So while the new PS14 cable isn't inexpensive, it can be compared to Siltech and Wireworld's top-end UPOCC silver cables which easily reach into the 5-figures... The PS14 is very reasonable in comparison and IMO should be judged on what it does for your system... I think many will find it to be a relatively great value for what it offers despite it's high price vs typical copper power cables. In this way it's a lot like Furutech's NCF receptacles. Grossly expensive for a receptacle, but a true bargain for the effect it has on a system's sound!

Now, let's talk about ribbon cables... they can be excellent sounding IME but they can also have significant drawbacks including:

- A cable that can't be bent without failing. Ok, so one of the major design requirements of a cable is it needs to be able to bend. Many ribbon cables are designed in such a way that excessive mechanical stress is put on the cable when it's bent, which causes failed insulation and terminations. I've been asked to repair and reterminate enough ribbon cables over the years and have seen these issues first-hand.

- A cable with conductors that corrode. It's not easy to protect ribbon cables from corrosion as most start out with bare metal ribbons. Even with round wire many cable manufacturers use silk or cotton insulation, which does little to nothing to prevent corrosion. Those who use very thin ribbons, or foil, have a very large surface area and very thin conductors which makes this even more difficult.

- Geometry that is too lopsided in terms of LCR and not noise-canceling. Ribbon cables often place the conductors side by side without any shielding, this is very susceptible to picking up noise. Also, if the ribbons are placed one atop the other you may have too much capacitance, in fact some cables strongly resemble an unwound film capacitor and require corrective networks.

- The ground leg of power cables is often an afterthought, and has poor spatial relationship vs the ribbon conductors.... but the truth is ground is very important. With conventional cables the ground is often run parallel to the hot and neutral which allows ground noise to couple... this is not ideal.

- Almost all ribbon cables are unshielded as the design doesn't allow for it without massive diameter.


How does the new ZenWave PS14 Cable Differ?

- The UPOCC silver ribbon I use in my new power cable solves LCR, noise-canceling AND bending issues described above by using an array of ribbons in a noise canceling geometry that allows the cable to bend evenly in any direction and allows balanced LCR.

- The UPOCC silver ribbon conductors are teflon insulated to prevent corrosion.

- The ground wire uses ZenWave's exclusive 14g UPOCC copper litz wire for ground. This ground has low impedance at high frequencies, and is run so that the silver ribbons do not couple closely with the ground wire. This makes for a blacker background and better resolution.

- The PS14 cable is shielded and uses pure, unbleached cotton filler in between the cable and the shield for best mechanical damping and dielectric properties. 


Please feel free to ask any questions... and if you're interested and want to give it a shot, I do have demo cables making the rounds. :)

Price is $2500 for 1.5m and $350 for additional 1/2 meter increments. I recommend 1.5m as the shortest length and longer can be better for PCs, but I can make a 1 meter cable for $2150 to cut costs a bit. A good bit of the cost is labor, this cable takes forever to build and the ribbons are a huge PITA to terminate... I wrap them in UPOCC silver round wire and coat them with Furutech nano-liquid, and the litz wire requires a solder pot to terminate. Not to mention the cotton filler, shield and techflex jacket. It's by far the most difficult cable to deal with I make but the results are well worth it! :)

(https://i.postimg.cc/ZY1L6fRD/1-DSC00288.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)

(https://i.postimg.cc/VNZf6PVH/1-DSC00293.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)

(https://i.postimg.cc/cJL10LXn/2-DSC00307.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: witchdoctor on 16 May 2019, 07:07 pm
Hi Dave,

If you were going to add this power cable to your system which component would have the most impact? Source, pre, or amp?
Thanks
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 16 May 2019, 07:14 pm
Hi Dave,

If you were going to add this power cable to your system which component would have the most impact? Source, pre, or amp?
Thanks

Source or preamp would be my 1st recommendation, but it's good for some amps too. For monster amps I may make an 11g version. :) 
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: paul79 on 25 May 2019, 02:41 pm
Dave is really on to something with this power cable! I am still wrapping my mind around everything, but will say, this is next level amazing.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: Jon L on 25 May 2019, 04:19 pm
That's a lot of heroic effort placed in power cord design :thumb:

I have love-hate relationship with ribbon-based cables.  I love most of what they do over non-ribbon cables, but the one thing that always bothers me is how they lose a bit of definition and solid impact in the area around upper-bass/low-midrange.  I wonder if some of the design features of this cable improves that tendency...
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 26 May 2019, 02:36 pm
That's a lot of heroic effort placed in power cord design :thumb:

I have love-hate relationship with ribbon-based cables.  I love most of what they do over non-ribbon cables, but the one thing that always bothers me is how they lose a bit of definition and solid impact in the area around upper-bass/low-midrange.  I wonder if some of the design features of this cable improves that tendency...

This cable is honestly somewhere in between a normal cable and a thin ribbon cable... It's not foil-thin and there are a bunch of ribbons in a geometry that allows for balanced LCR, noise canceling and the ability to bend the cable without over-stressing it.

If you'd like to try it out let me know, I'd be happy to include you in the current tour. :)
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 26 May 2019, 02:36 pm
Here's a message left on another forum about the new silver ribbon power cable:

Quote
Dave sent me this new PS14 cable to demo last week. and I'll be short and sweet here: I think it's phenomenal. Surprisingly so.

The biggest impact it has in my system is connected to my phono stage, with my current-favorite DIY cable powering my amp (instead of vice versa). I could wax poetic in describing what I hear with this cable, but instead I'll just say the overall change it brought to my system is simply frustrating given that it's a damn power cable. Its impact on the sound would have you swear something had changed in the signal path. But, briefly, what I hear with this cable is clean, expressive, extended, detailed, layered, non-fatiguing, tight and controlled sound. More accurately, it is probably that these are attributes of my phono stage itself, and this power cable is somehow bringing out the best in it, like no other cable has to date.

I'll be passing it along to the next person in line soon. You're in for a treat.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: RDavidson on 26 May 2019, 03:08 pm
That's a lot of heroic effort placed in power cord design :thumb:

And that's what REALLY separates Dave's cables from the rest. Sure, other manufacturers have access to many of the top of the line materials he uses. BUT, most manufacturers don't have the resources to hand build these geometries and combinations of materials that Dave does. And that's how he is able to provide cables that absolutely compete with anything on the market, yet sell it direct at a reasonable price. That's the value offering here and it's off the charts. To top it off, Dave is a great dude and very knowledgeable. Try an in-home demo. You have nothing to loose. :thumb:
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: MttBsh on 26 May 2019, 04:07 pm
Try an in-home demo. You have nothing to loose. :thumb:
[/quote]

…. but don't expect to try them and send them back...once you've heard Dave's cables you won't be taking them out of your system. I certainly haven't.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: pursuitofnow on 26 May 2019, 06:45 pm
Awesome! I'd like to get in on the tour action and try it out in my system.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: paul79 on 26 May 2019, 11:18 pm
Try an in-home demo. You have nothing to loose. :thumb:


…. but don't expect to try them and send them back...once you've heard Dave's cables you won't be taking them out of your system. I certainly haven't.

Yes, that will surely be the problem, right there......
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 27 May 2019, 04:41 pm
Thanks for the support!  :D


Awesome! I'd like to get in on the tour action and try it out in my system.

Sure, you are now on the list!  :green:
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: paul79 on 6 Jun 2019, 02:05 pm
My brief time with this power cable has really taught me.... Never have I ever, heard a power cable do what this one does.

I have tried so many power cables on my preamp (Sutherland Director) and none of the custom cables did what a simple 14ga stock rubber cord did for this preamp. It was always a night and day type of thing. 14ga rubber cord, preamp is happy.

I didn't mess with moving this cable around in my system, so I left it on the preamp. I just did not want to do that to myself. They are expensive! But I have a feeling my entire system loomed with this cable would be a different and wildly better one.

This power cable added weight in unimaginable ways to bass, mid-bass
Lowered the noise floor considerably filling all the space in my room with sound
Brought out more of everything with no detectable sonic character

A very intoxicating, clear, and natural sound. It in no way makes me think it is silver. I know some wonder about this aspect, and I can assure you. None of that. To be fair, I have not tried other silver power cables, only interconnects, speaker cables, digital cables.

On my preamp, it is the most neutral sounding power cable I have tried to date. It improves everything with no trade-off in any way. It is very hard to describe this one as it just does not make me think about the sound.

Congrats on your efforts here Dave. You have succeeded in making a neutral power cable that perfectly compliments your D4 interconnects.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: ketcham on 7 Jun 2019, 04:46 pm
Having known Paul Hovenga (Paul79) for many years now, I have never heard such words of praise spoken, ever.

This cable has my attention.

John.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: Tubeburner on 7 Jun 2019, 05:21 pm
My brief time with this power cable has really taught me.... Never have I ever, heard a power cable do what this one does.

Paul, what other silver cables have you tried? What have you compaired them to?
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: paul79 on 7 Jun 2019, 07:37 pm
This is the first silver power cable I have tried, that I know of, as some manufacturers are not as transparent about what's inside.

I would rather keep with this threads trend myself, being about the PS14. I will say though..... For me and in my system, this is a profound power cable on the level of or even exceeding a fundamental component upgrade. A real head scratcher if you will....
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 7 Jun 2019, 08:41 pm
Here's a comment from a person who tried out the PS14 that was posted on another forum.

I just noticed I already posted it....  :duh:

Quote
Dave sent me this new PS14 cable to demo last week. and I'll be short and sweet here: I think it's phenomenal. Surprisingly so.

The biggest impact it has in my system is connected to my phono stage, with my current-favorite DIY cable powering my amp (instead of vice versa). I could wax poetic in describing what I hear with this cable, but instead I'll just say the overall change it brought to my system is simply frustrating given that it's a damn power cable. Its impact on the sound would have you swear something had changed in the signal path. But, briefly, what I hear with this cable is clean, expressive, extended, detailed, layered, non-fatiguing, tight and controlled sound. More accurately, it is probably that these are attributes of my phono stage itself, and this power cable is somehow bringing out the best in it, like no other cable has to date.

I'll be passing it along to the next person in line soon. You're in for a treat.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: bazelio on 9 Jun 2019, 11:53 pm
Yeah, that was me (the other forum poster who demoed the PS14).  Great, great power cable Dave has here.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: A_shah on 10 Jun 2019, 05:31 am
Having known Paul Hovenga (Paul79) for many years now, I have never heard such words of praise spoken, ever.

This cable has my attention.

John.

 Hmm now you got me interested :P Question is where would it work for me best ??  Source :scratch: or Pre-  :scratch: which means would need more than one for sake of synergy ?
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 16 Jun 2019, 06:03 pm
Update on the demo tour: An AC member Ben currently has the demo cable, pursuitofnow is up next followed by A_shah. A reviewer has a 2nd demo cable and if he's done with it soon the demos will go quicker.

A_shah, sorry I didn't see your question earlier! This cable makes a pretty big difference, I don't think you'll need two to get a good feel for what it does. When I built the prototypes I had 2 in my system and the 2nd just added more of what the 1st one did. I think for some though, you may end up removing too much warmth, even a very neutral copper cable will sound warm in comparison to this cable. It's a good reference cable for what a neutral power cable is imo. Most who haven't already tried 5-figure UPOCC silver power cables are going to be surprised. ;)

I do think your pre or source are the best place to try it, but feel free to try it anywhere you like... just not as an extension cord for your weedwhacker please. :)
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 19 Jun 2019, 04:10 pm
We have a couple more signed up, so I'm going to make another demo cable. They will reside happily in my system if not being demo'd, and I'm really starting to miss having them around so I can justify it...  :)
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: paul79 on 19 Jun 2019, 05:12 pm
Yes sir. I hear you! I am working on getting these fitted throughout my system. The one cable made such a huge impression on me and my system, it sounds broken now that the demo cable is gone! I thought I could get used to it again maybe, but that ain't happening. Hang in there a bit longer Dave, while I compile.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: mresseguie on 19 Jun 2019, 05:40 pm
I need to think about this.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: bernardo on 2 Jul 2019, 01:19 am
Well guys you will want this cable if you audition it. I’ve tried it on 3 different components (CD Transport, Preamp, low power MOSFET amp) – the power cord enhances the strengths of all of them. I have not been totally satisfied with my preamp until I used the PS14 on it - the improvement was stunning. 

I concur with what has been stated by Paul79 about this cable. FWIW I started with Richard Gray power cords on all my components years ago then replaced most of them with Zenwave PL power cords with Furutech FI-50 NCF plugs a few years back – the three components I tried the PS14 on had the PL cords. I have not tried any other silver power cords.

I have sent the PS14 to A_Shah – you’re going to love it – one PS14 will be enough to hear what it can do. If I could pick only one of the three components to use the PS14 on I would choose the preamp.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 2 Jul 2019, 04:25 pm
I need to think about this.

Even better to experience this!  :icon_twisted:
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 2 Jul 2019, 04:30 pm
Well guys you will want this cable if you audition it. I’ve tried it on 3 different components (CD Transport, Preamp, low power MOSFET amp) – the power cord enhances the strengths of all of them. I have not been totally satisfied with my preamp until I used the PS14 on it - the improvement was stunning. 

I concur with what has been stated by Paul79 about this cable. FWIW I started with Richard Gray power cords on all my components years ago then replaced most of them with Zenwave PL power cords with Furutech FI-50 NCF plugs a few years back – the three components I tried the PS14 on had the PL cords. I have not tried any other silver power cords.

I have sent the PS14 to A_Shah – you’re going to love it – one PS14 will be enough to hear what it can do. If I could pick only one of the three components to use the PS14 on I would choose the preamp.


Awesome, thanks very much for trying the cable and posting your thoughts. :D

As far as the tour schedule, pursuitofnow was skipped (sorry!), but only because he's on vacation so he'll get the cable next. I also have a new demo PS14 warming up on the cable cooker, so that should reduce wait times.  :green:
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: A_shah on 3 Jul 2019, 03:21 am
Well guys you will want this cable if you audition it. I’ve tried it on 3 different components (CD Transport, Preamp, low power MOSFET amp) – the power cord enhances the strengths of all of them. I have not been totally satisfied with my preamp until I used the PS14 on it - the improvement was stunning. 

I concur with what has been stated by Paul79 about this cable. FWIW I started with Richard Gray power cords on all my components years ago then replaced most of them with Zenwave PL power cords with Furutech FI-50 NCF plugs a few years back – the three components I tried the PS14 on had the PL cords. I have not tried any other silver power cords.

I have sent the PS14 to A_Shah – you’re going to love it – one PS14 will be enough to hear what it can do. If I could pick only one of the three components to use the PS14 on I would choose the preamp.



@ Bernardo, thanks ! as per USPS I should have it by Friday ! Read the whole thread now so I am revising my post ! Ok will try it with my Pre-amp and source components

Asghar

All my sockets are PS audio Classic , semi dedicated line with PS audio Deckert power conditioner and noise harvesters

Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: A_shah on 3 Jul 2019, 07:31 pm
WOW !
just received the PS14 and connected it to  my Tube pre-amp. For me the best time to listen is between 11 -am and 6 pm as my electricity is pretty clean ( sol;ar)my noises harvesters  don't blink at all .

I alway believe in the first impression before I get confused with too many listening sessions . Any way  I am very impressed with the Bass ! clean and very tight  definitely lower noise floor ! the next impression I get is the mid's & the high's   very detailed and sonically very pleasing , in  most cases it is the small improvements that matter but with this PS-14 PC the improvements are very clear , the cable seems to be fast ? which is fine with me or maybe it is just my subjective impression
more to come later in a few days. :D :popcorn:

Asghar
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: pursuitofnow on 14 Jul 2019, 11:10 pm
Hey Asghar, I'm curious if there has been any development, improvements, etc.?
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 15 Jul 2019, 06:14 pm
Hey Asghar, I'm curious if there has been any development, improvements, etc.?

He may need a little more time, the male AC plug's ground prong was damaged so I sent him the new demo cable and have repaired the one he had, it's no big deal but cost a week or so of demo time. The ground prong is a little bit delicate and I should have included better packaging and instructions, which are included with the demo cable A_Shah has now. I think that will prevent issues in the future. I apologize for the delay!
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: pursuitofnow on 16 Jul 2019, 01:41 am
Thanks for the update, Dave. I was genuinely wondering since the previous post said "...more to come later in a few days." That was July 3, but yeah makes sense now hearing about the damaged ground prong.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: Delta77 on 16 Jul 2019, 01:12 pm
I would like to get on the list please..
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 17 Jul 2019, 06:50 pm
I would like to get on the list please..

Sure, you are welcome!  :thumb:
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: rollo on 17 Jul 2019, 06:58 pm
  Hi Dave. Interesting PC. What Ga. is it ?


charles
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 17 Jul 2019, 07:03 pm
Here's a new photo... I'm currently working on a new website, new pics, new cables! :)

Charles, it is a 14g cable including ground leg. There will also be an 11g version available in the very near future.

(https://i.postimg.cc/vHrvBJVy/1-sunday-040.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: jmolsberg on 17 Jul 2019, 10:31 pm
That's such a rad looking cable. Even better sounding apparently. Well done Dave!
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: ketcham on 17 Jul 2019, 11:31 pm
I look at these and think Buck Rogers, which was a favorite for me.  My only fear is they are so shiny my 80 lb puppy will chew them up.  Definitely on my 'to do' list for upgrades.  Those with tube gear, I would love to read your impressions.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 18 Jul 2019, 03:55 am
That's such a rad looking cable. Even better sounding apparently. Well done Dave!

I look at these and think Buck Rogers, which was a favorite for me.  My only fear is they are so shiny my 80 lb puppy will chew them up.  Definitely on my 'to do' list for upgrades.  Those with tube gear, I would love to read your impressions.

Thanks, I really appreciate it!

I've been thinking a lot about aesthetics and surveying folks as to what they like. ZenWave is intended to offer the best value on high end cables, so I started off neglecting looks to a degree. Over time I think I've found a happy medium in terms of how much cost is added vs making the cable look cool... and I plan on offering a couple of jacket option on the new website.

As far as shiny, moreso in the pics... my Dad and I took the pics, we're working on some softer lighting to keep it from being too sparkly. It looks cool but I think the sparkle is bit overdone by the lighting used.

I'm about ready to post these new carbon fiber dampers for the locking barrels of my RCA plugs on D3.5, D4 and D5 IC cables... I've had them for a couple months now, but I wanted to get some out there in folks hands. They will be offered as a trade-in, customers with my previous design using white viscoelastic dampers will get a big discount as well. I think the new cable design with the new plug dampers came out really nicely!

(https://i.postimg.cc/3x4GwZZg/1-Carbon-Dampers-on-WBT-RCAs.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/RWmhsKyF)

 
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: pursuitofnow on 18 Jul 2019, 05:17 am
I agree, great looking cable!

I'm also digging the carbon fiber dampers on my D4 ICs. I find them to be noticeably quieter creating a sense of more space around or between instruments. They look great as well, IMO.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: RDavidson on 18 Jul 2019, 02:24 pm
I have the new carbon fiber dampers on my D4's also and think they're fantastic. Not only do they look great and provide the sonic benefits of damping, they're MUCH more durable than the viscoelastic bands. To me they're a no-brainer and elevate an already exceptional product.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 19 Jul 2019, 06:35 am
Good to hear!  :D

I notice an increase in clarity by damping the locking barrel of the WBT plugs too. If you look at Furutech's lineup they have some connectors that are exactly the same with the exception of a brass vs stainless steel and carbon fiber body... the electrical contacts, or "guts" of the plug are the same. Examples are the FP-108 vs CF-102 RCA plugs and the FP vs CF series XLR plugs, then the FI-28 vs FI-50 AC plugs. In all cases the stainless/carbon version of the connector sounds clearer and more refined. While I can't machine a stainless steel locking barrel yet, adding the carbon fiber works well and looks cool. The standard WBT 0102 Ag is arguably the best RCA plug in the world, the carbon fiber damper makes it just a little better. :)
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable update
Post by: A_shah on 21 Jul 2019, 05:30 am
WOW !
just received the PS14 and connected it to  my Tube pre-amp. For me the best time to listen is between 11 -am and 6 pm as my electricity is pretty clean ( sol;ar)my noises harvesters  don't blink at all .

I alway believe in the first impression before I get confused with too many listening sessions . Any way  I am very impressed with the Bass ! clean and very tight  definitely lower noise floor ! the next impression I get is the mid's & the high's   very detailed and sonically very pleasing , in  most cases it is the small improvements that matter but with this PS-14 PC the improvements are very clear , the cable seems to be fast ? which is fine with me or maybe it is just my subjective impression
more to come later in a few days. :D :popcorn:
Update:
I had to send back the power cable to Dave as the ground pin was broken when I received it ,( although I used it with the ground broken ) Dave sent a another cable , which I believe is 2 meters long , The above impression still  stands , the best bang for the buck I got was with my pre-amp and now followed by using it with my QuickSilver ( tube) HP amp which is basically made for Studio record monitoring . found more Bass , clean bass heard some thing on Quboz streaming I may have  not picked up before but this time it  was" in face "type listening very detailed crisp no distortion, I like the new Furutech NCF F1-50 AC connectors ( expensive !)I think they add value to this wire as well as listening experience 

Asghar
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 24 Jul 2019, 02:29 pm
Thanks very much Asghar!  :thumb:

Yes, FI-50 NCF are pricey but a big part of a power cable, the NCF plugs are so much better vs anything else I think this cable needs them. Overall price on the PS14 is amazingly low compared to Siltech Triple Crown though! The same manufacturer makes the UPOCC silver wire and the plugs are exactly the same.   

I also agree bass is a standout with this cable, as well as the new silver ribbon speaker cable. Bass and overall dynamics are awesome!  :D

Cable will be going to pursuitofnow shortly.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: pursuitofnow on 25 Jul 2019, 02:13 pm
I'm looking forward to trying out this power cable!

Did you say new silver ribbon speaker cables? Anymore info on these? How do they compare to your other offerings?
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 26 Jul 2019, 12:26 am
I'm looking forward to trying out this power cable!

Did you say new silver ribbon speaker cables? Anymore info on these? How do they compare to your other offerings?

I look forward to see what you think!

And yes, the ribbon works really well as a speaker cable too. It's close to the same cable but the runs of ribbon are arranged a little differently to optimize the balance of capacitance and inductance. You can certainly hear some similarities in character between the power and speaker cable... fast, dynamic, great bass performance. In this area it's better than any other cable I've ever tested, including my own. Tone is slightly different, my preference varies from track to track. The ribbon is slightly more resolving, not a huge difference but it's a bit clearer. It's also just a bit less forgiving too, you can hear flaws that the silver/gold covers a little more. The overall "fast", unrestrained sound, dynamics and bass performance of the ribbon are better vs the silver/gold cable on every track... so with the exception of some acoustic/vocal tracks without much bass or demanding dynamics where I might enjoy the tone of the gold more, I prefer the ribbon and it's also much less expensive for the same gauge.

My silver/gold speaker cable is really labor intensive and expensive to make by hand out of small gauge round wire. The ribbon is less expensive to make in terms of both material and labor. The only downside is stripping the insulation off the ends of the ribbon is difficult, I'll have to make a custom tool for it eventually. ZenWave is all about offering top-end cables for at least semi-sane prices, and the ribbon power and speaker cables definitely fit in with that... The 14g ribbon SC will start under $2k, for those with amps next to speakers. :)

So what it's looking like going forward, my silver/gold speaker cables will only be made in 20g version for high efficiency single drivers and compression drivers. It works amazingly well for this application and in 20g isn't overly expensive. The ribbon will be offered in 14 and 11 gauge, It looks a lot like the power cable but is unshielded. It is covered with pure, unbleached cotton batting covered in teflon tape, then a layer of cotton techflex, then an outer jacket of regular techflex, the same used for the power cable. With the cotton under the outer jacket it's not as shiny as the power cable. :)

Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: pursuitofnow on 26 Jul 2019, 02:54 am
Thanks so much for the information, Dave. Sounds like a great value. I'm between the SL, SMSG, and now these for my next upgrade. I have the SL (17g) and SMSG (20g) internally wired in my Omega Super 3 HO XRS.

Any chance you'll have some 8' silver speaker cables to try out?  :)
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: dbeau on 26 Jul 2019, 05:22 pm

DAVE,
When will your website be updated to include/inform about these ribbons?

Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 26 Jul 2019, 05:36 pm
DAVE,
When will your website be updated to include/inform about these ribbons?

I've given up on my current website... Some things never worked properly and last time I tried doing some updates it wouldn't allow me to modify a page, it erased the entire thing, probably because versions of plugins are out of date. I tried to update everything, but I've given up on it and hired someone else to make a website that works properly as far as ordering, handles international orders, displays pics properly, SEO, analytics, etc... none of that stuff works on my current site right now and the guy that built it did nothing last time I paid him... he's too busy with his own site and life to do what he agreed to do, and was paid to do. 

I've started on the new site already, I've compiled a list of products and prices, I've taken a bunch of new pics, and hope to have it done in a couple months. Until then, I'll post info here and I have another subforum on another forum  about to go live.

My current website is out of date on a lot of things, but money and effort are best put into a fresh start at this point.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: pursuitofnow on 28 Jul 2019, 10:50 pm
First Impression with the PS14:

Wow this cable is pretty amazing! I've always been open to power cables making a difference and have a system that has allowed me to hear differences between stock pc's and good copper/teflon pc's but never experienced silver. This is like a component upgrade. I'm getting much better clarity and especially in the lower regions. Bass is much tighter and deeper. Overall the music is much more animated. Instruments coming out into the room even more.

I plan to try the PS14 in other components but the first place I started was with a Decware ZROCK 2 with 25th anniversary mods. The ZR2 is the stage right before my amps with the analog and digital sources feeding it. I was very surprised how a silver pc affected this line stage (eq).

After a few more days I plan to try it in the phono stage (Decware ZP3). I can already see wanting three of these cables, ZR2, ZP3, and the ZTPRE I have on order. Maybe even the 11ga for the monoblocks. Whew I’m definitely getting carried away… that’s like $7k in power cables. Based on what I’m hearing though, I know that will be the journey.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: jmolsberg on 29 Jul 2019, 02:05 am
^ amazing. Can't wait for you to report back once you try it on the two pre's
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 29 Jul 2019, 11:26 pm
Thanks very much for your review, pursuitofnow!   :thumb:

I'm very happy the cable works as planned... or to be totally honest better than expected!  :green:
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: pursuitofnow on 3 Aug 2019, 06:52 pm
I finally convinced myself last night to pull the cable from the ZROCK2 and try it in the ZP3 phonostage. It was a hard thing to do because it sounds so good in that stage and has both digital and analog paths going through it.

This cable (and maybe other silver PCs, I don't know haven't tried) just sounds amazing and adds level of clarity, quietness, and detail that has to be experienced. I truly encourage anyone skeptical of power cables making a difference to try this cable. What do you have to lose? Well, ok maybe a few thousand dollars. Because I'm willing to bet after hearing it, you like me can't imagine not having at least one of these cables in the system. I get it, it is a lot of money, but this cable has me figuring out ways to gather the dough.

With the PS14 in the ZP3 phonostage, I heard extended low and top end, more clarity, tighter bass, wider and deeper sound stage. Pretty much all the things that I heard in the ZROCK2 but with more presence. As if I moved closer to the stage or musicians.

I'm really impressed and again would recommend anyone skeptical to just try it :)
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 13 Aug 2019, 12:45 am
Thanks very much for your review, pursuitofnow!

I just got a note back from Jay at Audiobacon, his views are similar to most here and he's been working on a big power cable review, which will include the PSR-14.

Oh yeah, the name of the silver ribbon power cable is now PSR-14 with a PSR-11 11 gauge cable to come. The speaker cables will be SSR-14 and SSR-11, and interconnect will be DSR.

And, the demo is on it's way to Ernie, then Burt is up next. Please let me know if anyone else would like to demo the cable!  :thumb:
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: Ern Dog on 14 Aug 2019, 01:06 am
 Haha Ernie and Burt are next!  :lol:
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 18 Aug 2019, 06:59 pm
Haha Ernie and Burt are next!  :lol:

Now if we can just get the cookie monster to drop by...  :lol:


The Audiobacon review is out and I'm happy to say the ZenWave PSR-14 won their Best In Class award!

https://audiobacon.net/2019/08/17/27-audiophile-power-cables-reviewed/21/

(https://i.postimg.cc/bY1jCrPr/best-in-class.png) (https://postimages.org/)

Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: Ern Dog on 28 Aug 2019, 04:35 am
 I’ve had the demo power cable for a little over a week and wanted to share a few thoughts about it as I shipped it out today to Burt. I currently use a full loom of Sablon audio gran corona power cables and they are fabulous, but the Zenwave pc was better in every way. I tried it on my Border Patrol SE dac, Don Sachs preamp, and then on my Uberbuss power conditioner.  I liked it on the power conditioner best then the dac second best. I found that it lowered the noise floor, more extension in highs and lows, very resolving and holographic. Ultimately it made the music sound more realistic and more enjoyable to listen to. Music sounded spooky real and live!

Kudos to you Dave on this design. Thank you for setting up this demo. It has sparked my interest in further exploring Zenwave products. I see some D5 IC’s in my future, speaker cables, and this PC. The whole friggen enchilada!  Not all at once but slowly over time.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: jmolsberg on 28 Aug 2019, 07:20 pm
^ Another fine review for the Zenwave PSR-14 UPOCC. Enjoy your time with it Burt.
Well done Dave!

Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: Ern Dog on 29 Aug 2019, 05:08 am
Thanks very much for your review, pursuitofnow!

I just got a note back from Jay at Audiobacon, his views are similar to most here and he's been working on a big power cable review, which will include the PSR-14.

Oh yeah, the name of the silver ribbon power cable is now PSR-14 with a PSR-11 11 gauge cable to come. The speaker cables will be SSR-14 and SSR-11, and interconnect will be DSR.

And, the demo is on it's way to Ernie, then Burt is up next. Please let me know if anyone else would like to demo the cable!  :thumb:

Dave- How will the new DSR interconnects compare with D4 and D5’s?  Any chance you will be offering a demo for Them? :icon_lol:
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PS14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 29 Aug 2019, 07:26 pm
Dave- How will the new DSR interconnects compare with D4 and D5’s?  Any chance you will be offering a demo for Them? :icon_lol:

Interestingly enough, the D4 and DSR arrive at nearly the same place via different routes, the D4 with gold and the DSR with the ribbon wire shape as well as heavy gauge. DSR is a 17g UPOCC silver interconnect cable! This is the same gauge of UPOCC silver used by Siltech and Wireworld in their top end IC cables, and made by the same company. My cables have better connectors though, the WBT 0102 Ag with carbon fiber dampers added. Certainly, part of the appeal of offering DSR is to offer folks who are considering those brands a MUCH less expensive, yet superior option. ;)

Both D4 and DSR probably wouldn't be able to be identified as silver cables by sound, they are simply clear and neutral. However, the gold in the D4 creates a slightly different tone, and it works really well for making vocals and strings sound more fleshed out and full. This is a subtle difference though, unless you compare the DSR to the D5, then the effect the gold has on the sound is far more obvious as the D5 is a slightly warm sounding cable with much more gold vs the D4. The D4 uses gold to achieve a more neutral tone, without gold the D4 would sound a little thin tonally. So I'd suggest the D4 for folks who want a slight touch of warmth/enhancement and the DSR for those who want no embellishment, with the caveat some would consider DSR slightly dry. If you already have a warm system or tubes then the DSR is a nice option.

I will announce the new DSR IC and SSR-14/11 SC and have demos available soon. :) 

 
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: Delta77 on 30 Aug 2019, 01:05 am
Okay guys she’s made it to my system, Woohoo..!!
It’s the perfect length for my preamp, so that’s where she is going to start her journey through my system..
First thoughts:
More focus, between the speakers..
Nice holographic presentation..
More palatable,  (less harshness)..
More extension beyond the outside the speakers..


(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=197984)


(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=197983)


Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: Ern Dog on 30 Aug 2019, 01:12 am
Cool. Good to know. Thanks Dave
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 30 Aug 2019, 01:52 am
No problem Ernie, be happy to send you the DSR and D4s together to see what you think. :)

Burt, good to see the cable arrived quickly and safely! Thanks for the initial report and pics, usually cables take a few days to settle down after shipping, so it should get even better.

Pic of the new DSR Interconnect Cables with RCA plugs:

(https://i.postimg.cc/4N081dww/Zen-Wave-D4-RCA-Carbon-OE-JAcket.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/mtQNLTvF)
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: Ern Dog on 30 Aug 2019, 04:50 am
Wowza!!!!  YES, thanks so much Dave. I’ll take this into PM.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 20 Sep 2019, 01:46 pm
A new comment on the ZenWave PSR-14 vs Audioquest DRAGON!

This comment is exactly why I wanted to use UPOCC silver ribbon for this cable, UPOCC silver is often perceived as thin or dry sounding, the ribbon type wire is not. :) With this cable you get body, tone, clarity and dynamics that are on a whole 'nother level vs cables like Furutech DPS-4 and even the AQ Dragon. This is a 5-figure power cable for an amazing price!

Quote
This cable is pretty incredible for the price. I would say it’s comparable to the AQ Dragon in almost every respect and that cable retails for $4200 due to the solid core perfect surface silver. The main difference between them is the PSR-14 has a much sweeter treble, which is addictive to listen to over long periods of time and never causes fatigue. Ergonomically, the PSR-14 wins hands down and was very easy to move into both the wall and the DAC. The Furutech connectors are simply outstanding! The detail retrieval is easily in a class of its own and I suspect comparable to many of the other uber expensive power cables...
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: kngale1 on 21 Sep 2019, 01:15 am
Quote
A new comment on the ZenWave PSR-14 vs Audioquest DRAGON!

This comment is exactly why I wanted to use UPOCC silver ribbon for this cable, UPOCC silver is often perceived as thin or dry sounding, the ribbon type wire is not. :) With this cable you get body, tone, clarity and dynamics that are on a whole 'nother level vs cables like Furutech DPS-4 and even the AQ Dragon. This is a 5-figure power cable for an amazing price!
Do you offer a 10 or 12 gauge PSR-14?  If you do, what's the price?
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 21 Sep 2019, 02:12 pm
Do you offer a 10 or 12 gauge PSR-14?  If you do, what's the price?

Yes, a PSR-11 11g silver ribbon cable is on the way! Price will be about 50% more vs the 14g version, so about $3750.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: pursuitofnow on 21 Sep 2019, 03:29 pm
Dave, speaking of the PSR-11, what would you say are the sonic differences compared to the PSR-14? Would the same differences I hear between gauges with copper cables apply here?

Silver power cables are a new world to me, but after hearing the PSR-14 in my system, I am sold on the positive difference they can have.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 21 Sep 2019, 06:39 pm
Dave, speaking of the PSR-11, what would you say are the sonic differences compared to the PSR-14? Would the same differences I hear between gauges with copper cables apply here?

Silver power cables are a new world to me, but after hearing the PSR-14 in my system, I am sold on the positive difference they can have.

I think so but I'll comment more on the 11g version after thorough testing. It's pretty likely some components will be better with 11 and some better w/14g.

The 11g version won't be shielded and is intended for large amps or power conditioners, the 14g is shielded and will be better with most sources and preamps. For PCs I feel amps like a larger gauge and no shield, the shield can dull transients a bit. For sources and pres it can improve clarity. I think the 14g cable will work great on many smaller amps, after all 14g wire is rated to carry 1800 watts in your 120V AC system.

 
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: pursuitofnow on 22 Sep 2019, 07:34 pm
Thanks, Dave. Can't wait to hear your thoughts after some testing.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: paul79 on 28 Oct 2019, 03:29 pm
So far, I have 2 of these in my system. One to the Pre and one to the DAC power supplies. It is as transformational on the DAC as it is on the preamp. More of everything I loved using it on the preamp, making for an even more ultra quiet, very resolute, atmospheric, dense, and palpable presentation. It allowed my system to more fully illuminate the room of the recording, and also gives so much body to the performers. It gives all of this with no negative trade-off. Astonishing power cable. It brings out the best in whatever I put it on it seems. A true neutral reference, just like the D4 interconnect.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 28 Oct 2019, 03:40 pm
Hi Paul, thanks very much for your post and I'm happy to hear your thoughts!  :)  I'm also happy to announce the addition of some new ribbon power cables!


The 11 gauge version of the PSR-14 is ready! Unsurprisingly, it's called the PSR-11.  :D

The entire cable is 11 gauge, including the UPOCC copper litz ground connection, and it's not shielded. I think it's best to use shielding for low powered components and simply keep ICs from running parallel and touching your amplifier power cable, as shielding can soften dynamics a bit. I avoid this in the 14g cable by spacing the shield away from the conductors, but for an 11g cable it would result in a ridiculously large cable.

Other than the shield, it's basically a double-run of the 14g cable.


I also have copper ribbon versions of the PSR cables ready! Sorry to be boring, but they're the PCR-11 and PCR-14. These cables will replace the Furutech DPS-4 in my lineup. The ribbon geometry results in lower inductance, the litz-type ground wire is far more ideal as far as both electrical characteristics as well as geometry, and this results in a cable that's significantly better than the DPS-4 for close to the same price.

For the ribbon cables the idea is to use the shielded 14g cables for everything but the amp and the power distribution that has amps plugged into it. It really doesn't need more gauge, it gets the job done with finesse rather than brute force.:) For big amps and power distributors, the 11g cables can use 20A IEC plugs as well.

I also still have the UPOCC copper litz PL-11 and PL-14 power cables, these are more neutral vs the ribbon cables, while the ribbon cables are warmer and have a bit more bass. I recommend the 11g cable for everything, the more litz the merrier in my experience.

So I currently have silver ribbon, copper ribbon and copper litz power cables to choose from. These 3 cables will be the ZenWave Power Cable lineup going forward. I think they are the best power cables you'll find today, and they are priced fairly, designed to last, and use genuine name-brand connectors.

Please contact me for a demo!  :)

Pictured is the 11g ribbon cable in "dark carbon" techflex.

(https://i.postimg.cc/vTBzsVb4/PSR-11-or-PCR-11-Dark-Carbon-Techflex2.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/MMCR0Xcw)
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: carride11 on 9 Feb 2020, 03:26 am
How does the Copper ribbon compare to the Silver ribbon?
I own the PSR-14 , it very impressive but The copper is more in my price range for the two or three more power cables I need currently, or would it be worth waiting until I can afford the silver.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: jtcf on 1 Nov 2020, 12:45 am
Resurrecting this older thread after spending the evening with a brand new PSR 14 power cable. Dave was out of demos when I inquired a few weeks ago so it literally is new.After bringing it up to room temperature, then letting it power my tube amp (Aric Audio) for a couple of hours with a CD on repeat, sat down and cranked it up.All I can say is HOLY CRAP!Not what I was expecting at all. As if every aspect of the sound pouring out of the speakers was much more dimensional,nuanced, and correct. Like dialing in a camera lens sort of. Like my amp got a tune up.It was quite a happy surprise.
I've been trying out a few other brands and they all have hinted at this level of performance and sound pretty darn good on my dac but nothing special on the amp.This is only day one, I'll update in a couple of weeks.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: genjamon on 1 Nov 2020, 02:12 am
Can you name any other brands you’re looking at? And what cable your ears are most accustomed to?
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 1 Nov 2020, 03:51 pm
How does the Copper ribbon compare to the Silver ribbon?
I own the PSR-14 , it very impressive but The copper is more in my price range for the two or three more power cables I need currently, or would it be worth waiting until I can afford the silver.

Sorry, I have no idea how I missed this!   :oops:

The copper version is warmer, and a little less clear and resolving... however it is MORE clear and resolving vs most other copper power cables.

As far as price, I think the best value would be using the copper cables for amps and power distributors and silver for sources and preamps. However, this is just a very general recommendation and some amps or power distributors may show larger differences in power cables. So far most folks have found the silver cable makes a larger difference on sources and preamps. I think DACs are one area the silver cable shines, and it's being used on a couple of MSB Select DACs and clocks, and other cost-no-object DACs when the owner could have chosen any cable on the market. The shielding used on the PSR-14 silver ribbon and PCR-14 copper ribbon makes them great choices for digital components in particular.

At this point I've had a lot of comparisons vs many other cables and the new ribbon cables have done quite well, I really don't think the value for the money can be beat, and for PSR silver ribbon, it will compete with any cable regardless of price.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 1 Nov 2020, 03:56 pm
Resurrecting this older thread after spending the evening with a brand new PSR 14 power cable. Dave was out of demos when I inquired a few weeks ago so it literally is new.After bringing it up to room temperature, then letting it power my tube amp (Aric Audio) for a couple of hours with a CD on repeat, sat down and cranked it up.All I can say is HOLY CRAP!Not what I was expecting at all. As if every aspect of the sound pouring out of the speakers was much more dimensional,nuanced, and correct. Like dialing in a camera lens sort of. Like my amp got a tune up.It was quite a happy surprise.
I've been trying out a few other brands and they all have hinted at this level of performance and sound pretty darn good on my dac but nothing special on the amp.This is only day one, I'll update in a couple of weeks.

Hi, thanks for the report and I'll be interested to hear what you think in another week or so, and if you think it works as well on your other components.

As you know from the DSR silver ribbon interconnect cables you have, the silver ribbon is very sensitive and can take a long time to settle down, even if it's previously been burned-in. I have a new idea to mechanically de-stress the cable before electrical burn-in, I think this will solve the issue of shipping disturbing the cable and requiring additional burn-in. So, hopefully in the future I can ship cables that will be delivered to the customer totally burned-in.  :D
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: jtcf on 2 Nov 2020, 12:05 am
@genjamon I'll message you. I'm not comfortable comparing them publicly yet after such a short time.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: jtcf on 10 Nov 2020, 11:38 pm
After only ten days with this PSR 14 I'm still thrilled with it, especially on the amp,a match made in heaven. If it's breaking in and changing I can't detect it, it simply seems to let my amp perform at its best. I very carefully moved it to the preamp for a day,then the dac.In each case the dimension,truth of timbre,and clarity were evident but the amp is where it is a superstar in my system and room(I'll list it at the end).

My system is a simple transport, dac,pre,and amp,feeding Harbeth C7 speakers and four subs.Digital takes some time and experimentation to conquer "digititius".Smooth it over too much by choice of cabling and tubes and it sounds lifeless.Harbeths are tricky to incorporate also - along with their famous beautiful tone comes an over inflated midrange.The music I love is acoustic and electric blues and rock and it's taken a while to cobble together a system that allows the music to sound like it was intended to sound IMHO.I like live recordings in particular and own several discs of concerts I actually attended.
So tubes,interconnects,speaker cables, isolation devices,room treatments got me 95%of the way there.Power cables I've tried run from $99 - $1,500 JPS,Shunyata, PS Audio, Audio Envy(warmish,good timbre,solid bass)Cabledyne(clear and airy),Cullen and Triode Wire Labs at present. They all worked well on one component or another.The TWL is particularly adept at bringing out the best of the transport (a huge surprise), my preamp stepped it up a few notches with the Cullen.The PSR14 brought everything together to really the highest level ever. A huge  3D soundstage,amazing unraveling of instruments and vocals. I can hear EVERYTHING on the recordings with correct tone,nuance, and dynamics. Harbeths CAN rock.The other evening I played an ancient Small Faces disc - First Steps (w/ Rod Stewart before he was featured) fully expecting it to sound awful. It was wonderful! A great mix of blues with psychedelica blended in:-)It became one of those evenings pulling out various discs trying to find something to trip up the PSR.Haven't been able to do it. My bank account isn't happy but the same thing happened when I tried out Dave's silver ribbon ics.They are perfect for this system.

CXC transport, Tubadour dac,LTA microZotol2 pre,Aric Audio Transcend amp, Harbeth C7 speakers,four subs, GIK  room treatments
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: jtcf on 30 Nov 2020, 05:38 pm
Excitement! My PSR 14 has been shipped! I was reluctant to listening to my system for several days after sending the cable on to the next customer. But I had a craving for some John Lee Hooker so I had to fire it up. Of course it was all good, but the illusion of him being Right There and the ambience of the recording space was not.Before I tried Dave's cables a few members warned me once I heard em I would never be happy without them. Truth.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 30 Nov 2020, 06:05 pm
Hi jtcf, Yes, I am on my way to the post office... thanks for your patience!  :green:

Also, thanks for posting your thoughts on the PSR-14, I really appreciate it.  :thumb:
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: jtcf on 30 Nov 2020, 06:09 pm
 :green: :green: :green: :bounce:
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: jtcf on 26 Jan 2021, 07:21 pm
Just a quick update. USPS had me a bit stressed when tracking showed it out for delivery and returned to the warehouse again and again, but it arrived unscathed ten days late.After it's long trip it very obviously did not perform fabulously right out of the box as the demo had(which arrived in three days time). Between 25 - 30hrs it began to open up and after around 100hrs it's maybe 75% there.Nonetheless it still sounds like a major component upgrade, just outstanding.Even on less than stellar recordings it's all the more enjoyable to clearly hear what went wrong and how (armchair recording engineer, lol!) I would have made different choices. The timbre and tone are always spot on and the emotion comes through, always.
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 27 Jan 2021, 12:04 am
Hi jtcf, thanks for the update!

I also get a little stressed about delivery these days, USPS seems like they caught up after the holidays but they are still running late sometimes. It is much better though, I've see about 1 week delays recently while it used to be much longer.

I am working on ways to fully burn-in cables before shipping them. It will involve a mechanical de-stressing procedure as well as electrical burn-in. My AudioDharma high-power cooker works, but shipping seems to set the cables back quite a bit. Over time demo cables seem to be less effected by shipping and they stay burned-in much better, so I think the mecahnical aspect of burn-in hasn't been recognized by many folks and needs to be accounted for.

Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: jimiles on 25 May 2021, 04:24 pm
I’m now using a Zen Wave PSR-14 power cable on my Allnic L4000 preamp to great effect.

The noise floor of this cable is absolutely off-chart low. My PS Audio P10 Power Plant reads a vanishingly low .2% THD+N at the output, so you wouldn’t think much could go wrong in the last five feet of cable. You’d be wrong. Music is now set against the blackest background I’ve ever heard from my system.

My speakers are single driver DIY affairs using Tang Band 1772 drivers, and I’d just resigned myself to a certain amount of tizziness. It’s a whizzer cone, right? To my amazement, the PSR-14 on the preamp resolved a majority of those artifacts. Many cables clean things up by sanding down harmonic textures, but so the PSR-14. Tone and texture are still there in spades as you would expect from paper cone drivers. 

Down low, there is some welcome weight to the mid bass. It never feels bloated or ill defined, though. There’s no reason to worry that a 14 AWG cable isn’t delivering enough current to make some first class bass. You will definitely be able to locate the rebel bass!

The PSR-14 was exactly what my preamp needed to perform at its best. Having a ladder DAC with tube output (Aqua LaScala Optologic), a triode preamp (Allnic L4000), and paper cone speakers (Tang Band 1772), I had tone and texture to burn. I went right for the PSR-14.  Others with metal or ceramic drivers and solid state front ends may want to consider auditioning the PCR-14. There’s surely something in the Zenwave stable to match your sonic priorities.

Hats off to Dave for creating a world class power cable. A whole family of them, in fact. I’m definitely eager to start auditioning his DSR and D4 interconnects!
Title: Re: NEW ZenWave PSR-14 UPOCC Silver Ribbon Power Cable
Post by: DaveC113 on 27 May 2021, 03:28 pm
Hi jimiles, Thanks very much for posting your review, I really appreciate it!  :thumb: