"these connectors alone cost $800+"
Marvin-
I thought you made a mistake, meaning the power cable cost $800, but I looked up your review and yes, just the ends are $800! I had Jason hardwire a Kimber PK-10 into my JT Dynamic power supply (I figured hardwire must be at least as good as an expensive IEC), and I found a nifty rhodium over silver over copper AC plug on eBay. I also made a power cord for my Blu-Ray player, with a silver over copper C7 connector from the UK and the same Kimber PK-10 and rhodium/silver/copper AC plug as on the JT. Both power cords cost me under $160. Okay, I'll admit running a 10 gauge power cord for a puny little player seems overkill, but I can't argue with the results. The difference was impressive, on both audio and video- lower noise floor, blacker backgrounds, improved dynamics, more vivid color and contrast on video. The cords do need a long burn-in time to work their best- maybe 300-500 hours. My friend that recommended it uses the same cords on his big BAT/Audio Physic Caldera system (>$75k) and loves them too.
James