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A quick word on AC connectors. They have a far more direct impact on sonics than you might think. Years ago I experimented with different connectors on a standard Belden 14/3 cable and was shocked to hear significantly altered sonics. There is a direct correlation with the types of metal plating used. Adding a rhodium, silver, platinum or palladium outlet might tip things up too much or throw a system out of whack. Experience has taught me to be careful with what wall outlet to use with what aftermarket connectors. The better the connector the more critical but unpredictable the outlet becomes. That's why I have generally tried to use a matching outlet (if it exists) with a cable’s AC connector or stick with a good unplated outlet such as CruzeFirst Audio’s Maestro. That seems to match well with most AC connectors I tried. It has a smooth yet neutral and open character that matched well with Sablon Audio’s power cables. It's also why Mark recommends them to customers. He also likes Oyaide’s R0 or Avatar Acoustics’ Afterburner 8 outlets as good matches. Even the lowly IEC on your equipment can impact performance. Understanding this Mark can construct customized versions of his cables. For example you might prefer the warmer more forgiving nature of the GC’s previous copper AC plug.
As I have noticed changes in video picture quality with power cords, I also tried the QGC on our Samsung LCD flat screen TV with its standard IEC input. Colors were richer and more vibrant, the picture was clearer and more focused. While many folks struggle with the subtleties and nuances audiophiles agonize over in audio systems, it’s far easier to perceive changes in picture quality. If you’re skeptical on the whole power cable thing or don’t hear much of a difference, try one on a TV or Blu-ray player with an IEC.
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On another note, a colleague of mine once described reviewing as giving testimony at a trial. It’s simply your observations of an event. A dozen people could witness the same event and give different accounts each. It’s a roundabout way of saying your observations in your system may vary, hence try before you buy. My own rule is if it’s expensive and I can’t hear it before heating up my credit card, I don’t buy regardless of what a reviewer thinks or whether it’s listed in something like Stereophile’s Recommended Components. That’s a stupid way to build a system. In that light Sablon offer a money-back (less a charge up to 10%) 30-day in-home trial period on all standard length/termination products. You can try Mark’s products in your system. If they aren’t your cuppa, you’re only out 10% of what you paid. With hifi dealers dropping like flies, the only way most punters can hear equipment is either at a show or with an in-home trial period as Sablon Audio offer.
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Of all the cable brands/series I have sampled over the years, three stand out head and shoulders above the others; MIT’s Magnum, Actinote’s Aria and Sablon Audio’s Panatela and QGC. They all affect music playback in different ways. I’d be hard pressed to choose one over the others. I simply have heard several more expensive brands that sonically didn't come close to what Sablon Audio offer. Recommended.
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Quality of packing: No issues
Reusability of packing: Seems reusable several times.
Quality of owner's manual: None required.
Condition of component received: Perfect.
Completeness of delivery: No issues.
Website comments: Has decent pictures and descriptions of products.
Human interactions: Professional, and friendly
Pricing: Good value.
Final comments & suggestions: Money back (less 10%) 30-day in home trial period.
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