In this post we are comparing the Following power cords from Grand Activation:
- HGA 2000 - Entry level power cord ($1500 for 2m)
- AC-55 Bulk power cord with Furutech FI50 NCF terminations ($300 for 2m of cable, $810 for the Furutech terminations)
- HGA 6000 - top of the GA line power cord. $5000 MSRP for 2m.
Components involved in the comparison:
- Cord From the wall outlet (QSA Gold) to our power conditioner with QSA Gold and Red AC receptacles, GA internal wire, Duelund filter capacitors and ground filtration.
- Merason Dac 1 MK2
- Innuos Statement NG Server/Streamer
Methodology
We added the power cords one at a time, starting with the cord running from the wall outlet to the conditioner and evaluating over the course of a few days. Then changing the cord to the streamer, then finally changing the cord to the DAC. Each cord change involved an evaluation of the sound over 3-4 days. All cords were well broken in with 500 + hours on each one.
First: The Grand Activation HGA 2000
On the power conditioner - In this system, and across the board in all comparisons, the change in cords on the power conditioner was the most revealing and dramatic. With the HGA 2000 on the conditioner, the sound had a touch of the QSA fuse effect (for those that know). There was an instant sense of relaxation, not in a softened way, but in a musical flow way. It was open, resolving, and non-mechanical sounding. The soundstage expanded in all directions, creating a 3-dimensional and more immersive experience. For those familiar with QSA Fuses and their benefits, I would liken the overall improvement of the HGA 2000 to something between a QSA Blue and Yellow fuse upgrade on a component.
Adding the cord to the streamer - This was more subtle, but additive. There was less noise, more quiet space and low level information. The bass was tight, articulate, and not a standout. Midrange was excellent. Highs came forward a little more, adding some nice sparkle and air to the presentation.
Finally, the DAC - With the third cord in the system, there was more of a sonic signature one could define. The highs were starting to push forward in my system, changing the balance from open and airy to a tad too forward.
While I like what this cord does in terms of openness, resolution and naturalness I think I would limit it's use to one or two components. It's perfect if you are looking to add a little more dimensionality and air to the sound of your system.
GA AC-55 bulk wire with Furutech FI-50 NCF connectors
GA HGA 6000
Final Analysis
The HGA 2000 in my opinion is an exceptional cord for the money. I would recommend one or two in a system, perhaps on the power conditioner and source. You get the MMAT benefits, and in combination with other similar priced cords, could put together an incredibly revealing audio system on a moderate budget.
The DIY AC-55 cable would be a great partner to the HGA 2000. It excels in weight and heft, but lacks the ultimate "sparkle factor" of the HGA 2000. Combined, and with judicious placement, the combination of the AC-55 and HG 2000 would make for a very balanced, natural and resolving system that would embarrass many power cable manufacturers' high priced offerings.
Last, for me, if my audio journey ended with HGA 6000 I would be satisfied. This is a fantastic cable, and a fantastic value. One of these connecting to your power conditioner is transformative to the sound of one's audio system. One could stop there as well. But for those who wish to travel further, this cable does not change it's fundamental balance, it just illuminates the inner detail and textures of the music more as you add them to components. Everyone needs to hear at least one of these cords in their system no matter how good you think your system is.