Bring Hear-Them-to-Believe-Them Upgrades in Weight, Timing, Dynamics, and Presence to Your Music with the Shunyata Sigma-X NR Noise-Reducing Power Cable: Designed for All Source Components and Amplifiers
Designed for source components, amplifiers, and preamplifiers, the most radical progression in power cord design since Shunyata Research's humble beginnings in 1998 delivers a watershed level of performance in the form of SIGMA-X NR noise-reducing power cables. SIGMA-X is second only to Shunyata Research's ultimate Omega power cord within the "Reference Series." Reference Series X cables represent the culmination of a 25-year commitment to produce the absolute finest-performing power cables available.
The dramatic performance SIGMA-X power cords impart is not subtle or amorphous. Indeed, it is revelatory and impossible to dismiss. When the recording calls for it, SIGMA-X power cords unleash a perfectly timed storm of three-dimensional weight and dynamic intensity, all without a hint of compression or artifice. Perhaps the signature attribute of the SIGMA-X performance is its rendering of an almost gravitational silence within voice, instruments, and images on a recording. There is a truth and precision to sound that is unmistakably free of distortion, leaving the listener captivated by an intense connection to their favorite music.
Three definable advances to Sigma-X power cord designs distinguish themselves within seconds after application, comparisons, and testing.
First, SIGMA-X features the all-new TAPc technology. TAP (transverse axial polarizer) is a patent-pending technology that Shunyata Research developed to improve the performance of its reference signal cables. TAPc technology is a radical advancement of the TAP technology that enables a significant reduction in the size of the modules – and for the first time allows this technology to be applied to power cords. The sonic results of TAPc include a cavernous drop in perceived noise floor, effortlessly portrayed dynamics, and a superb rendering of timing and coherency. The sonic benefits of the TAPc technology are quite simply unique and cannot be replicated by any competing product or technology. Even to an untrained ear, the effects of the TAPc are immediately apparent and repeatable across a variety of components and systems. In essence, the TAPc modules are force-multipliers that elevate the listening experience to a level many would not imagine possible.
Previously found only in the ultimate Omega power cords, the QR/BB module takes a wrecking ball to power cord performance expectations. SIGMA-X QR creates an island of pure silence when used with reference-quality amplifiers and source components. QR/BB technology essentially supercharges the component's power supply with reserve levels of DTCD energy. For the first time, this remarkable QR/BB technology is available at a much lower price in order to reach far wider audience.
Perhaps no technology has been more thoroughly researched, measured, and third-party-tested than Shunyata Research's power line noise-reduction technology. Gen-2 NR technology, as used in the Gamma and Theta power cord lines, has been proven effective in heart surgery labs across the U.S. and Europe. Countless iconic recording engineers, mastering studios, and musicians have provided vivid accounts supporting the efficacy of Shunyata Research's NR power cords. The Gen-3 NR circuit, as used in SIGMA-X power cords, improves upon the sonic performance of the Gen-2 circuit. Transient speed, transparency, and purity are all significantly improved along with an improvement in micro-dynamics. The new NR circuit is also more compatible across a broader spectrum of components, including preamplifiers and power amplifiers. Even amplifiers operating in pure Class A will realize a significant benefit when using the SIGMA-X NR power cable. (SIGMA-X XC power cords are now, primarily, recommended for use with power distributors.)
Shunyata Research's update to its proprietary KPIP processor represents a significant advancement to a process that permanently preconditions cables and power distributors. It dramatically enhances the sonic performance of the cables to which it is applied and significantly shortens the break-in cycle. All cables, conductors, connectors, and outlets undergo a multi-day conditioning process that is an integral aspect to the extraordinary performance of Shunyata Research products.
So, what are the differences in SIGMA-X models?
SIGMA-X QR edition is the highest-performing SIGMA-X model. It includes patented QR/BB technology descended from the ultimate OMEGA QR along with NR noise reduction technology. It is particularly suited to use with high-powered amplifiers but can be used for source and digital equipment when the highest levels of performance are demanded.
SIGMA-X NR delivers reference-grade performance and noise reduction on any and all electronics. Whether on amplifiers, sources, or line-level components, SIGMA-X NR offers a massive component-upgrade level of performance.
SIGMA-X XC is designed specifically for use as a wall-connection power cord for use with Shunyata Research power distributors. Due to the extensive levels of filtering in Shunyata Research-designed power distributors, NR filters are not needed at the wall connection. For use with other manufacturers power conditioners, the NR models will likely provide a performance benefit.
- Conductors: VTX-Ag
- Gauge: 06
- Construction: 1″ tube
- Dielectric: Fluorocarbon
- Noise Reduction: QR Model > 6 dB @ 1 MHz, NR Model > 6 dB @ 1 MHz, XC Model None
- Tech: QR Model QRBB, NIC, TAPc Polarizer 2x, NR Model TAPc Polarizer 2x, XC Model TAPc Polarizer 2x
- AC Connector: CopperCONNâ„¢ Carbon-Fiber
- IEC Connector: CopperCONNâ„¢ Carbon-Fiber
- KPIP v2 Processing: 4-days
- Color: Black flex
- Standard Length: 1.75 meters
- Safety Assurance: Continuity and polarity tests – by two technicians, HiPOT tests insulation breakdown @ 4,500 VAC