Power cords-grounded or ungrounded?
Jul 26, 2007 at 4:41 PM Post #3 of 78
Well,

I guess the question is- why would two very similar electronic devices that are both UL listed have differences in this very basic connection to an AC outlet? Both use about the same amount of power, both have Caps, both have transformers, and both have power supplies, both are involved with music reproduction.

What is the point of the ground in any low power audio equipment other than introducing the potential for ground loops?

It seems to me, the ground is completely superfluous if one can function just fine without it, and be UL listed.
 
Jul 26, 2007 at 5:37 PM Post #5 of 78
So, are there any advantages to a grounded, three prong power cord as may be used in a cd player, preamp, headphone amp, or DAC?

I'm looking at my JVC mini cd player, receiver combo right now and both components have ungrounded two prong. Moreover, the electric mini heater I have is ungrounded two prong! That thing uses a lot of juice, I'm sure.
 
Jul 27, 2007 at 12:36 PM Post #7 of 78
I have experimented extensively with powercord cables and grounding and without a doubt i like the powercords better without grounding. I recently removed all earth wires from my powercords and the powerfilter. What might give you even better sound is removing the shield from the powercords. This opens up the cable completely and you'll hear much more details.

I think earthing is one of the reasons there are some loops/nasty's etc. Introduced into the system.
 
Jul 27, 2007 at 1:19 PM Post #8 of 78
Quote:

Originally Posted by tbonner1 /img/forum/go_quote.gif
One advantage of an ungrounded cord is you can reverse the polarity.


True only in countries with bizarre plug designs
wink.gif
Behold the glory of Schuko.
 
Jul 27, 2007 at 2:44 PM Post #9 of 78
Quote:

I have experimented extensively with powercord cables and grounding and without a doubt i like the powercords better without grounding.


Great info here, I agree.

Thanks tourmaline
 
Jul 27, 2007 at 9:49 PM Post #12 of 78
The mains ground connection is there as a SAFETY ground, in the event that there is an internal short within the component. Components supplies with 2 prong mains connectors (within the States) are generally certified by UL (or other ETL lab) as passing rigorous testing including the verification of double insulation for transformers and/or switching supplies, and 'creepage' requirements to ensure the minimal possibility of malfunction that would require the grounding of a conductive enclosure to minimize the possibility of electrocuiton.

Certainly, the lifting of a required ground can and often minimizes ground loop induced hum and noise. If you're a hermit and don't live near anyone, its your call as to whether you want to lift that ground for its obvious potential benefits. Think of it as social Darwinism in action.
If you live in proximity to others, consider the tradeoffs -
Minimization of ground loop induced problems
vs.
1. Endangering the lives of small children from electrocution who may poke around your components while holding and possibly spilling their 'sippy' cups full of liquid. Components are are known to fail through no fault of anyone other than the manufacturer, which is why components that haven't been rigorously tested come with 3 prong plugs.
2, Denial of insurance coverage if you're found out, regardless of whether your actions were the causal factor.
3. Possible criminal prosecution for knowingly endangering life, limb and property.

There are techniques for minimizing ground loops that do not compromise required safety grounding of the chassis -
http://db.audioasylum.com/cgi/m.mpl?...rophead&n=8150
http://sound.westhost.com/earthing.htm

FWIW
 
Jul 28, 2007 at 10:55 PM Post #13 of 78
You probly payed more for the headphone amp.. srsly you shouldnt worry about it[

QUOTE=tin ears;3141884]My headphone amp has a three prong grounded cord. My CD player has an ungrounded two prong cord. What gives?[/QUOTE]
 
Jul 29, 2007 at 12:29 AM Post #14 of 78
Grounding and shielding makes it worse if it isn't properly done.

I have the ground wires plugged into another outlet of the wall. This way the noise doesn't run through the components first. It gives more low-level detail.

I have also separated the shield 1+ cm from the cable. Less than 1cm made it sound muddy with lack of detail and clarity.

But even without shielding it sounded amazing, I could listen for hours.
 
Jul 31, 2007 at 6:10 AM Post #15 of 78
^ what do you plan to do for your next system.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Users who are viewing this thread

Total: 2 (members: 0, guests: 2)
Back
Top