Power Cords For Martin Logan CLX ART

[Mister Pig]

Was hoping some other CLX ART owners would chime in on this topic.

I bought a pair the other month. When I installed the factory power cords I was pretty underwhelmed. I figured give them a few days to stabilize. They never did change much. I then robbed a pair of PI Audio Group cords off my phono stages. Significant improvement.

I think about this from time to time. Heck I have to get these cords back on my phono stages after all. Now these cords just energize a low current power supply for the stator. How much do I have to invest in these cords to get things working properly? I am having trouble getting another set of Pi cords. Will the SE9 cords from Pangea do this? I read about some people using them but I have my doubts. What characteristic do these power cords need?

Looking forward to reading your thoughts and experiences!

 

[gracky]

Sorry I have no exprience with electostats myself. But I remember many years ago Nobuyuki Fu wrote for Stereo Sound that it was better powering ML speakers from the nearest wallwart than doing power amps from there. So I assume the speakers are more sensitive to power line impedance than amplifiers and investing on power cords for speakers would not be in vain. I hope more concrete helps from others too.

 

[msimanyi]

Looking forward to reading your thoughts and experiences!

I don't have any direct CLX experience, but if you check the PS Audio forum for a gentleman posting on the Iconoclast cables thread, the mastermind behind them has a pair in his system. I'm sure he's a good resource to answer your question.

He posts there under the username Rower30 and his name is Galen Gareis. This thread might be productive: https://forum.psaudio.com/t/belden-iconoclast-interconnects-and-speaker-cabling/2038/4871

On my 15As - which have the amplified woofer section - power cords don't seem to make a material difference, but my amps and other electronics are on a separate set of circuits so perhaps that reduces electrical noise on the speakers' power source.

 

[Big Dog RJ]

Just came across your post MP... I was in the air but back on ground now.

Yes, this power cord phenomenon totally bowled me over, such that I wasn't a believer at all until...
When I first got my CLX's, I had two sets of cords to try out. One was a home made / DIY version done by the dealer, using some good quality plugs, sounded pretty darn good. The other was by Jas Audio which I actually used on my previous Ethos and Summit-X stats. Then I tried some Nordost cords from my CJ dealer and my golly, things really took off! However, the price of Nordost in Aus isn't pretty... so I put all my other resources (very hard earned money) into a full Nordost loom on all the other gear.

I was then introduced to a local chap, by my Rega TT dealer, who specialises in AC power cords and accessories. We met and discussed the requirements, length & design and he offered two options that were absolutely tops! One version had Furutech plugs on both ends, and the other had Watgate plugs. The cords were much the same, heavy duty 10awg with pure copper wire and just a simple covering/ jacket, nothing fancy. So I tried both and preferred the Furutech ones. Been using these exclusively on the CLX's and absolutely love it!

In the meantime, I got hold of a few more Nordost cords, Tyr2 and Valhalla's. From my specialist made Furutech's to this Nordost series cords there was a good difference, one that is easily tangible and easy to distinguish but it wasn't a significant improvement as compared to using the Nordost Odin line. I had the fine opportunity of doing a home trial on the Odin's, holly molybdenum, what a fabulous thing that was! Look out!!!

So, this power cord phenomenon bowled me over again and especially with fine stats, such as the CLX's. Now, there's certainly no need to go overboard and spend a fortune on power cords. However, what I would recommend is that you get the best you can possibly afford, you're CLX's are worth it! You'll be amazed at what they can do when given the best.

Cheers and enjoy those fine tunes!
RJ