[Puma Cat]

Originally Posted by RRibeiro

Indeed I also thought next step should be a Sigma XC (NR v2 technology...) for the Conditioner (either PSA 10 or Everest).

The XC power cords not have the noise reduction technology; they are designed to pass maximal current to the power distributor (which has it's own built-in noise reduction).

The Shunyata noise reduction power cords were specifically designed for components. This technology is specifically designed to keep the noise from the components' own internal power supply from escaping into the rest of the power distribution chain and adding noise to other components, most importantly, lower level source components e.g. DACs, phono stages, etc.

A quote from an article by Caelin:
"A primary source of audible sonic degradation is caused by the power supplies in our audio/video components. Most components use FWBR (full wave bridge rectifier) power supplies that generate an incredible amount of transient noise when the rectifiers switch off. The design of a power cable can significantly affect the reactance of these signals within the power supply. The power cable is effectively part of the primary winding of the power transformer. The transition between the various metals used in a power cable and its connectors can cause electromagnetic reflections and diode-like rectification of the noise impulses as they propagate away from the power supply. If the power cable presents a high impedance to these signals they will be reflected back into the power supply where they will intermodulate, thus increasing the high frequency noise levels of the component. Most power supply filters are ineffective at blocking very high frequency noise components and much of it is passed through to the DC rails. The sonic effects of this include: high background noise levels, blurred or slurred transients and a general lack of clarity and purity of the sound or visual image.”