Cables & Accessories

It always seems to be the case that no matter how many plug sockets you have, it’s not quite enough for all your equipment. Enter Chord Company’s PowerHAUS P6 entry-level six-way mains power block. Designed to reduce noise and improve the performance of your system, it follows the flagship PowerHAUS M6 and S6 distribution devices and employs the company’s proprietary ARAY noise-reduction technology to minimise interaction between the internal live, neutral and earth cables. It uses heavy-gauge internal cables and high-quality UK mains sockets (a version with Schuko sockets is also available) and has a 16A IEC mains input connection. It is supplied with a 16A IEC power cable that is fitted with a straight connector, but can be upgraded to be supplied with, for example, a Chord Clearway Power cable with a right-angle connector. The input socket is situated next to an earth binding post in the top centre of the block, so a right-angle connector is useful if height is a consideration. Chord avoids the use of serial filters, switches and neon power indicators as they can generate noise and compromise performance.

Sound quality
The 13A mains plugs in my system are held very tightly by the PowerHAUS P6 and are noticeably more secure than the sprung metal strip connections provided by the sockets of a standard mains block. My only quibble is that having the 16A IEC mains input socket on the top makes it a bit cumbersome when you plug in the mains lead, but that may not be a problem in all setups. In comparison with a standard mains block, I am conscious of a lower noise floor when using the PowerHAUS P6. With a lovely recording of Jupiter from Holtz’s The Planets Suite performed by the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the quiet transition into the music of the stately section seems clearer and I can sense more of the detail in the flutes. In summary, the reasonably priced PowerHAUS P6 is beautifully made and is a very high-quality mains power block. NR    

DETAILS
Product: Chord Company PowerHAUS P6
Type: Mains distribution block