Your system’s power is handled. Everything’s plugged into a conditioner or high-quality power strip. It’s been that way for years. But recently, you’ve noticed a drop in performance. The sound feels less vivid. Bass is soft. Dynamics don’t quite snap. You check the signal chain, but everything looks fine. Could the problem be where it all starts?
What to Do
Unplug your gear and inspect both your power strip and the wall outlet it connects to. Clean the contact blades and sockets using a non-residue electronic contact cleaner and a microfiber cloth or swab. If any outlet feels loose or shows signs of oxidation or wear, replace it. For North American users, consider upgrading the wall outlet to a high-quality audiophile-grade option—like the PS Audio Power Port Classic, which offers tight grip, heavy-duty construction, and oxygen-free copper contacts. Even premium outlets should be cleaned annually.
Here’s Why That Works
AC power quality isn’t just about conditioning—it's about the physical connections themselves. Over time, standard outlets oxidize, loosen, and introduce resistance. Loose or corroded contacts generate micro-arcing, which creates noise and heat, both of which degrade audio performance. These issues raise the system’s noise floor, compress dynamics, and increase electrical jitter in digital components.
Upgrading to a better outlet like the PS Audio Power Port ensures tighter contact, cleaner current delivery, and improved mechanical and electrical integrity. But even the best outlets collect dirt and oxidize. Regular cleaning restores full conductivity—and keeps your system performing at its peak.
You can’t hear the outlet directly. But you can hear what happens when power flows freely, silently, and without compromise. Start clean, and everything downstream benefits.
