Collection: Power Cables

A power cable connects a HiFi component to the wall socket and supplies it with power – high-quality versions rely on solid conductors, good plugs and clean shielding.

Why a good power cable?

The power cable is the first metre in your system's power path. A solid cable with a proper cross-section and firm, well-contacting plugs ensures a stable, safe power supply – power-hungry amplifiers in particular reward this with a firm fit and reliable contact. There's also a practical benefit: a cable of the right length keeps things tidy behind the rack, instead of lying coiled up next to the signal cables.

What matters

What counts is sufficient cross-section, good plug contacts (in Switzerland Type J / T12 or IEC appliance connectors) and effective shielding. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil we give you an honest assessment and look at whether a good power cable, a clean power strip or a mains filter will make the bigger difference in your setup. We think of the power supply as a whole, not just the one cable.

Who it's for – and straight talk

For anyone who wants to set up their power supply cleanly and safely – from swapping the flimsy cable supplied with the power amplifier to carefully cabling the entire chain.

Straight talk: Power cables are the topic with the hottest debates. What's certain: a solid cross-section and firm contacts make sense, especially with power amplifiers. Whether you perceive an additional listening benefit beyond that depends on the system, the mains and the ear – we won't promise you any miracles here. Clean mains power via a filter often achieves more than the most expensive single cable.

Verdict: A good power cable is a sensible, long-lasting foundation – bought with realistic expectations. If you want to get the maximum out of your power supply, we'll look at cable, power strip and filter together with you.

Frequently asked questions

Does an audiophile power cable make an audible difference?

That's hotly debated. Measurably relevant are cross-section, contact quality and shielding; an audible effect depends heavily on the system, the mains and the listener. We give you an honest assessment and recommend the point where your budget brings the greatest benefit.

Which plug fits in Switzerland?

On the component side there's almost always an IEC appliance connector (C13/C15/C19, depending on power), on the mains side the Swiss Type J (T12). Make sure the current rating matches the device. We supply the right combination and advise you on the choice.

Do I need a dedicated power cable for every component?

Every component needs a power lead, but not every one needs the most expensive cable. For power-hungry components like power amplifiers, a solid cross-section is worth it above all. For small sources the need is lower. We help you prioritise sensibly.

Power cable or invest in a mains filter instead?

A clean power supply via a filter or a good power strip often achieves more than a single premium cable – especially on a noisy mains. Ideally the two work together. We look at your setup and tell you where you should start.

How long can a power cable be?

For typical setups the length isn't critical, as long as the cross-section matches the power. What matters more is that the cable isn't unnecessarily coiled up right next to sensitive signal cables. If you need a specific length, we'll find the right variant.

Why buy power cables from HD Zürisee?

Because we give you an honest assessment of the topic instead of promising miracles, and tell you whether a cable, power strip or filter brings you more in your case. We pay attention to Swiss standards, correct current ratings and safe contacts. We advise you personally and deliver throughout Switzerland – free shipping from CHF 190.