I needed a replacement for a blown MOV based protection device for my system. After a dealer recommended I look at Shunyata Research, I spent a weekend reading the technical information on their website. While I didn’t understand all the deep technical details in the extensive technical articles, I was convinced that I needed to take a different approach to power in my system. Long story short I had my electrician install a whole house surge protection device to address surge protection. This allowed me to focus on the power to my system components, maximizing their performance. After considering a Gemini, I decided to stretch and buy a device I’d never need to upgrade. I purchased a Denali and an Alpha-X XC power cord to power it. The special deal on this combination was incredible (almost 2K off the cord in a package deal with the Denali). I had originally purchased a Theta cord a week or so before the combination special was announced. Shunyata immediately offered me the special pricing and worked with my dealer to swap the cords. Throughout the sales process, as I was evaluating the purchase, the Shunyata team patiently answered questions and was incredibly responsive. I had more than one lengthy discussion about their products and how they fit in my system. Special thanks to Richard, Scott, and Cassandra for all their help.
While some settling of these new pieces was to be expected, the improvement was immediate and astounding. I can’t describe the change to my system in typical flowery audiophile magazine review terms, but I can say that the bass is much more distinct, separated, tight, and tuneful. Separation of instruments, vocals, and frequencies uncovers and exposes all of the music. Background vocals emerge more distinctly. Stereo separation is increased. My McIntosh amplifier can effortlessly deliver the full and instantaneous dynamic range contained in a good recording. I couldn’t be happier with this decision.
Mike M.