Press Releases

MusicCord Power Cords Used To Record The Score For The Movie
"Judas And The Black Messiah"

Rochester, Michigan, USA, February, 2021 - Essential Sound Products' MusicCord power cords were used to record the musical score for the movie "Judas And The Black Messiah". The major Warner Brothers studio release is scheduled to appear in theaters and streaming on HBO Max starting February 12, 2021.

Essential Sound Products’ president Michael Griffin commented about the use of MusicCord power cords as an integral part of the movie’s musical score recording system, “this represents another example of the versatility of MusicCord to improve the performance of any audio component used in any setting where music is made or listened to.”

The soundtrack was recorded by the renowned engineering team of Jim Anderson and Ulrike Schwarz at the Hammerstein Ballroom (Studio 7) at the Manhattan Center, and at Reservoir Studios, both venues in New York City. The recordings were later premastered for the movie at Valhalla Studios in Auburn, NY, in 7.1 surround at 24bit/48k, standard for television and movie soundtracks.

This was the first orchestra session at Manhattan Center since the lockdown (in late September). A special orchestra was assembled for the sessions. The sessions were conducted under strict COVID production protocol, meaning that the string section had to be much more spread out than a normal orchestral arrangement. Additional spot microphones were used to compensate. Woodwind instruments were placed high stage with individual Plexiglas cages built for each. At Reservoir studios each oodwind and bass player were also placed in a separate isolation booths. The brass section was recorded in isolation as well.

A MusicCord-PRO ES Power Distributor and MusicCord-PRO ES power cords were used exclusively for the sessions. They were used to power the main microphones, a Decca Tree, at both the Manhattan Center and Reservoir Studios sessions. The cords also powered the AMB-Tube DI’s used for the acoustic basses.

Jim and Ulrike credit the combination of MusicCord-PRO ES power cords and Power Distributor with enabling the microphones to sound more open, achieve a better frequency response and make them quieter. Ulrike commented, “This power chain improves the overall performance. The microphones and DI's sound like they should have sounded in the first place. On key components like the main microphone system this is a big improvement, which was felt by all including the composers, the director and of course, Jim and me.

 About "Judas And The Black Messiah"

"Judas And The Black Messiah" is a biographical drama about Fred Hampton (Daniel Kaluuya), leader of the Illinois Black Panther Party during the late 1960’s. Based in Chicago, the film details how Hampton was betrayed by William O'Neal (Lakeith Stanfield), an FBI informant. Jesse Plemons, Dominique Fishback, Ashton Sanders, Darrell Britt-Gibson, Lil Rel Howery, Algee Smith, and Martin Sheen also star. The film is set to premiere in the USA on February 12, 2021, simultaneously in theaters and streaming on HBO Max.

 About MusicCord-PRO ES:

Originally created for high-end recording and mastering studios, MusicCord-PRO ES is right at home in the finest home audio systems. Our "ESpecial" series products afford any audio system with truly refined, audiophile level performance. It’s patented cable geometry, and additional processing including cryogenic treatment to -300-degrees F eliminates phase distortions and speeds current flow to the component's power supply. Performance is elevated to a level approaching our Reference series, but at significantly lower prices. The matching MusicCord-PRO ES Power Distributor extends the performance to every connected component and perfectly matches the performance of the power cord by the same name.

MusicCord-PRO ES Power Cord and Power Distributor Reviewed In Audiophile Style

Rochester, MI, February, 2021 – MusicCord-PRO ES Power Cord And Power Distributor Reviewed In Audiophile Style

Audiophile Style reviewer Joe Whip comments about MusicCord-PRO ES power cord and Power Distributor “I can’t really believe I am writing this, but these products are worth every penny…while not cheap, (MusicCord-PRO ES power cord and Power Distributor) are lower priced and perform, at least for me, at a much higher level than much more expensive audio bling cords that we are all familiar with.”

Joe was first introduced to MusicCord-PRO ES during a zoom meeting hosted by his local Philadelphia audio group with guest, multi-Grammy winning recording engineer Jim Anderson. When someone asked Jim about power cords, to the group’s surprise he told them about MusicCord-PRO ES explaining to the group that the latest Patricia Barber project “Higher” was recorded using these cords. Jim commented that MusicCord-PRO ES “energized” his studio and home audio systems.

Joe Whip was initially sent three MusicCord-PRO ES power cords. He decided to introduce the cords into his system one at a time, starting with the power amplifier. Joe commented that the amplifier “had a much more impactful sound, across the frequency spectrum. Bass was rock solid and much more impactful. My oh my that bass.” He continued commenting “I could also hear more of the room where the recording was made, especially live recordings... pianos had a rounder sound, more like the real thing… kick drum has more punch, cymbals and high hats more of a natural metallic sound, a greater sense of attack…these cords improved the sound of my amp in every way imaginable.”

Joe’s initial impression of the impact of MusicCord-PRO ES with other system components was less impressive. However, the cords were plugged into an isolation transformer and power conditioner. So, we sent Joe a MusicCord-PRO ES Power Distributor. When he first auditioned his system with the Power Distributor replacing the isolation transformer, Joe commented “I heard the same level of improvement with the power strip powering the front end of the system that I heard with the amp.”

Joe continued saying “What really shocked me was the sound of the piano. With the strip in place, piano recordings sounded even more like the real thing, especially the upper registers which had a purer smoother sound.”

In summary, Joe reflected “listening to a system fully powered by these Essential Sound Products, you are more fully able to hear what your individual components and system are capable of producing. You get a clearer, smoother yet more detailed and dynamic sound, much more like the real thing.”

You can read the full review by clicking on the following link:
MusicCord-PRO ES review In Audiophile Style

 About Audiophile Style:

Audiophile Style was launched as "Computer Audiophile" in 2007 by Chris Connaker. The site brings together Chris' extensive background in Information Technology and his passion for music. Audiophile Style particularly focuses on music servers, streamers and other computer-based playback systems, helping readers understand the technology and how to get the best performance from them. www.audiophilestyle.com

 About MusicCord-PRO ES:

Originally created for high-end recording and mastering studios, MusicCord-PRO ES is right at home in the finest home audio systems. Our "ESpecial" series products afford any audio system with truly refined, audiophile level performance. It’s patented cable geometry, and additional processing including cryogenic treatment to -300-degrees F eliminates phase distortions and speeds current flow to the component's power supply. Performance is elevated to a level approaching our Reference series, but at significantly lower prices. The matching MusicCord-PRO ES Power Distributor extends the performance to every connected component and perfectly matches the performance of the power cord by the same name.

Legendary Producer/Engineer Joe Chiccarelli Endorses MusicCord-PRO Power Cord

Los Angeles, CA, USA, October, 2020 – Legendary Producer and recording engineer Joe Chiccarelli endorses MusicCord-PRO power cord.

Mr. Chiccarelli had several conversations with our pro-audio specialist and veteran recording/mix engineer Richard Waller III before agreeing to evaluate the cord. After the evaluation, Joe would comment "I was quite skeptical at first...".

For his evaluation, Mr. Chiccarelli used samples of his own mixes that he was very familiar with. He chose an Analog Summing Mixer that he regularly uses as the first component to compare the performance of the stock power cord with MusicCord-PRO. The evaluation consisted of first listening with the stock power cord, then switching to MusicCord-PRO. To confirm what he was hearing, Joe used several mixes and swapped the cords multiple times.

Once he was satisfied, Mr. Chiccarelli called Richard telling him that he would be happy to endorse MusicCord-PRO. Joe commented "...after replacing my typical IEC cord with MusicCord-PRO, I was quite impressed. The difference is not subtle. It’s obvious. With MusicCord-PRO on my Analog Summing Mixer, instantly the top end seemed smoother with a sense of wider stereo image. Sounds seemed to be more present and ‘in the room sounding’. The lower midrange is full and most importantly my tracks felt more relaxed and easier to listen to." Mr. Chiccarelli continued saying "Making the comparison with MusicCord-PRO and any typical IEC cord was obvious. The sound was fuller, less gritty and noisy on the top end and just easier on the ears. I never would have thought that a power cord could make this much difference. It really does. I’m impressed."

Joe Chiccarelli is a 10-time Grammy winning producer and recording engineer. Over the span of his career, Mr. Chiccarelli has produced and/or engineered albums by Frank Zappa, Stan Ridgway, Morrissey, Oingo Boingo, Spoon, The Shins, Sandra Bernhard, My Morning Jacket, Counting Crows, Augie March, Manchester Orchestra, Minus the Bear, Boy & Bear, Kurt Elling, Saints Of Valory, and Big Talk, Elton John, Rufus Wainright, U2, Alanis Morissette, Beck, Etta James, Jamie Cullum, Al Stewart, Tori Amos, The Strokes, The Killers, Cage The Elephant, Cafe Tacuba, Pink Martini, Christina Perri, Glenn Frey and Jason Mraz. He is responsible for album sales well over 30 million.

MusicCord-PRO power cord is based upon a patented, multiple-conductor shielded design that replaces a single line or neutral conductor with several smaller conductors. This design eliminates phase distortions and speeds current flow to the component's power supply. MusicCord's groundbreaking performance is matched by its rugged, high quality construction. MusicCord power cords also establish a new industry standard for quality and reliability. Their road-worthy build quality is validated to meet hospital grade standards for mechanical integrity. MusicCord and MusicCord-PRO power cords are backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Stereo Times Names The Essence Reference-II Power Cord
A "Most Wanted Component Of The Decade 2010-2020"

New Jersey, USA, February, 2020 The Essence Reference-II Power Cord has been named one of Stereo Times magazine's "Most Wanted Components Of The Decade 2010-2020".

Stereo Times Senior Editor Mike Wright comments that The Essence Reference-II is "to be considered as a true reference power cord. The Reference-II’s made everything they were connected to perform at a higher level. Each time I listened to my system with the Ref-II’s installed I felt my electronics were performing at their best and that I was enjoying music at a higher level than I had previously thought."

Mr. Wright continues, "Background noise was greatly reduced, the low-end performance spoke with greater authority, and transients seemed to be more realistic. Across the board, all of my gear seemed to have additional air and sparkle to them. Ref-II power cords back up all of the claims that audiophiles have been making and more."

The Essence Reference-II Power Cord is part of our “Reference” series, which also includes the Reference-II Power Distributor and Reference Duplex Outlet. The Essence power cord has set the performance standard for High End Audio since the original version was introduced in 1995. When reviewed by The Absolute Sound they commented:

“at last, a power cord
that can properly be termed a component.”

The fifth generation Reference-II advances practically every performance attribute, yet is true to what The Essence has always been known for:

• Lifelike Dynamics and Transient Speed
• Extended Frequency Range & More Natural Tone
• Enhanced Soundstage Precision & Spatial Qualities
• Greater Clarity & More Resolution

The Essence Reference-II power cord affords the most realistic, emotionally engaging performance possible from your High End Audio system. The Reference-II is backed by our 30-day satisfaction guarantee and lifetime warranty.

Everything Audio Network's "Product Of The Year":
The Essence Reference-II Power Distributor

Silver Spring, MD, USA, January, 2020– Everything Audio Network (EAN) announces that The Essence Reference-II Power Distributor was named "Product Of The Year" for 2019.

Everything Audio Network editor John Gatski comments that the Reference-II Power Distributor is, "My go-to power strip for every audio, A/V or music instrument/recording review at EAN. This passive, multi-outlet unit keeps out hash and power line noise, and does not generate any self-induced, acoustic, mechanical noise (unlike countless active AC distribution boxes I have tried), which can spoil the in-room listening experience when listening at lower levels. It is pricy, but cant be beaten for a well-engineered, durable power strip that gets out of the way when you plug in the power. The hard-wired Essence Reference-II power cord is part of the package."

When Everything Audio Network says our products are used with every review, that's not an exaggeration. Fact is, various models of Essential Sound Products power cords have been used to power all the audio/video components EAN has reviewed since 2010! This fact speaks volumes about the performance and versatility of our ac power cords and distributors.

The Essence Reference-II Power Distributor is part of our “reference” series, which also includes the Reference-II Power Cord and Reference Duplex Outlet. The Reference-II delivers uncompromised performance for the finest High-End Audio systems. The Power Distributor combines patented, state-of-the-art cable technology with an interdisciplinary engineering approach to design and execution of every aspect. It’s fluted cylindrical shape combined acoustical treatments effectively isolate interior current-carrying components from distortion causing vibrations. Hospital-grade, isolated ground Reference Duplex Outlets are “star” or home-run wired directly to the power cord for maximum performance and isolation. A hard-wired Reference-II power cord completes the assembly.

As Duke Ellington wrote “It Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing”. In terms of performance, The Essence Reference-II Power Distributor delivers the goods in abundance! Your connected components will be endowed

with greater macro and micro dynamics, frequency extension including extended, superbly controlled bass, precise imaging and more natural tonal quality. The Power Distributor’s extruded aluminum chassis and shielded custom internal cabling protect against RFI and EMI distortions for a quite background.

 About Everything Audio Network:

Founded by long-time audio equipment reviewer, John Gatski, the Everything Audio Network evaluates high-quality audio equipment, accessories and software for audiophile, home cinema, personal audio and home recording niches.

Mr. Gatski has been evaluating audio equipment since 1988. In 1995, he created Pro Audio Review, and he has written for Sound-On-Sound, Audio Magazine, Laserviews, Enjoy The Music, The Audiophile Voice, High Performance Review, Radio World and TV Technology. He is founder of The DC Hi-Fi Group, a metropolitan Washington, DC audiophile association.

Country Music’s Hottest Song Of Summer 2019, "The Git Up" Mastered With MusicCord!

New York City, NY, USA, October, 2019 – Billboard announces that for the week ending October 5, 2019, “The Git Up” by Blanco Brown is the hottest Country Music song for the 12th consecutive week! The song first reached #1 only 5 weeks after first appearing on the charts, and continues to occupy the top spot in its 17th week.

“The Git Up” was mastered by Kenny “Mixx” Daniels, Chief Mastering Engineer at Patchwerk Recording Studios. Although not recorded at Patchwerk, the song was brought there expressly to have Mr. Daniels perform the mastering. Kenny “Mixx” Daniels is arguably the most prolific mastering engineer in the urban music industry. The breadth of his work includes projects by Prince, Rick Ross, T.I., Dr. Dre, Yo Gotti, Monica, Kanye West, Snoop Dogg, Nelly, Pitbul, R. Kelly, Chris Brown, Faith Evans and Patti LaBelle. His mastering projects have earned a reputation for infusing audiophile quality and “bigger sound” into the mixes.

Since the Patchwerk mastering facility was initially established in 2010, MusicCord brand power components have powered every component in the system. Specifically, MusicCord-PRO and MusicCord-PRO ES power cords and Power Distributor strips were chosen for their superior transient current flow, maximum-coverage shielding and the ability to eliminate phase distortions.

Connected components are afforded enhanced clarity, greater dynamics and cleaner transients, smoother midrange with natural warmth, more precise spatial qualities and lower noise. When Mr. Daniels was asked why he chose MusicCord, he commented, “When it comes to hearing every minor detail in a song, you have to have the best gear. That includes the best power cords and MusicCord is the best”.

MusicCord Professional Series power cords are based upon a patented multiple-conductor cable design that replaces a single line or neutral conductor with several smaller conductors. This design eliminates phase distortions and speeds current flow to the component's power supply. MusicCord's groundbreaking performance is matched only by its rugged, high quality construction. MusicCord power cords also establish a new industry standard for quality and reliability. Their road-worthy build quality is validated by meeting hospital grade standards for mechanical integrity. To achieve this designation, MusicCord power cords had to pass additional mechanical abuse testing. MusicCord and MusicCord-PRO power cords are backed by our limited lifetime warranty.

MusicCord Power Cords Used Throughout The Recording Process For Patricia Barber's "Higher" Album

New York City, NY, USA, August, 2019 - Patricia Barber's latest album "Higher" is Stereophile magazine's recording of the month for their September, 2019 issue. Various models of MusicCord power cords were used extensively throughout the recording, mixing and mastering processes.

The project was recorded by multi-Grammy winning engineer Jim Anderson and wife Ulrike Schwarz, January 2019, at Chicago Recording Company (CRC). Jim has recorded Patricia Barber's projects for the past 23-years. For this project, Mr. Anderson called Essential Sound Products president Michael Griffin saying that he wanted to "go all out" in terms of using the best technology tools available.

In response, Mr. Griffin assembled a box full of MusicCord, MusicCord-PRO power cords and Power Distributor strip, and MusicCord-PRO ES power cords. He then drove to CRC to hand deliver them to the studio.

These additional MusicCords allowed Jim and Ulrike to integrate the cords throughout the studio on pratically every desirable component from tube microphone power supplies to direct inputs, John Hardy mic pre-amps that were brought in for the session, A/D Interfaces and powered studio monitors.

The recording was done simultaneously on the in-house AVID HD Interfaces and a custom-built laptop capable of 64-channels at 32-bit/352.8kb sampling rate.

Mixing was performed at Skywalker Sound in California. MusicCord power cords were installed on select components at Skywalker during the mixing process.

The Patricia Barber "Higher" project was mastered at Gateway Mastering Studios by legendary mastering engineer Bob Ludwig. MusicCord-PRO ES power cords were used on Bob's Horus D/A Interface.

Essential Sound Products Receives Positive Feedback’s “Audio Oasis” Award For AXPONA 2019 Exhibit

Chicago, IL, USA, April, 2019 – “Positive Feedback”, a premier High-End Audio magazine, announced the recipients of their “Audio Oasis” award for special recognition “of truly superior show room sonics & musical experience” at AXPONA 2019. This is the second year in a row that Essential Sound Products has received this award at AXPONA, shared this year with Convergent Audio Technology.

The “Audio Oasis” award is based upon consensus feedback from the entire Positive Feedback editorial staff attending the show and is signed by Editor-in-Chief David Robinson. “We are honored that our exhibit is among those to receive this distinction. I want to extend my congratulations to the other companies whose products comprised the wonderful sounding demonstration system we all contributed to at AXPONA 2019” commented Essential Sound Products’ president Michael Griffin. “The outstanding performance achieved was a testament to the synergy of design as well as excellence in execution. We are proud that The Essence Reference-II Power System was included to provide a foundation of abundant clean ac power and allow the other components to perform at their best.”

The Essence power cord has been renowned for its groundbreaking performance since the original version was introduced in 1995. The 5th generation Reference-II is based upon patented, shielded cable technology at once affords the highest fidelity, rich natural tonal palette, lifelike dynamic contrast and transient speed, and the quietest backgrounds. The Essence Reference-II combines state-of-the-art design and the best materials with our proprietary termination process.

AXPONA (Audio Expo North America) 2019, held this year April 12-14 at Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center in Schaumburg (a suburb of Chicago), is the largest High-End audio show in North America.

Legendary Jazz Bassist Ron Carter Endorses Essential Sound Products Power Cords

New York City, NY, USA, January, 2019 - Legendary jazz bassist, "The Maestro" Ron Carter endorses Essential Sound Products power cords. After auditioning several models, Ron chose The Essence Reference-II power cord to use with his live sound rig.

Essential Sound Products president Michael Griffin first met Mr. Carter in October, 2018. He was beginning a 3-week engagement at New York's famous Birdland Jazz Club. "I brought with me a Gerald Veasley Signature MusicCord-PRO because it was red; the same color as the Epifani bass speaker cabinet Ron uses for live performances, and gave it to Sergio Larios, Ron's longtime bass technician. Sergio immediately replaced the stock cord with the MusicCord-PRO and Ron used it that evening."

Ron Carter has a unique bass rig setup with the speaker cabinet mounted on a pole to elevate it to Ron's ear height. Sergio explained "Ron wants to hear exactly what the audience is hearing".

Mr. Carter, an avid audiophile, visited Essential Sound Products' website where he saw that there were several other model power cords. Ron asked if he could audition the other models. Of course Michael Griffin said "Yes sir".

Ron received the additional power cords while still performing his 3-week Birdland engagement. After an initial audition of a Reference-II cord, Ron asked if he could take the cord with him on his upcomming European and Asian tours. Again, Michael said "Yes sir".

When Mr. Carter returned from the Asian tour, he call Michael to tell him that he preferred The Essence Reference-II power cord. Ron explained, "I use a very percussive, chordal, hammer-on and harmonic bass technique. All the different nuances are more pronounced and audible with the Reference-II cord. This cable’s consistently clean sound aids the amp to produce a truer bass sound."

Ron Carter is a multi-Grammy winning recording artist, composer, arranger, educator & author. Mr. Carter holds the distinction of being the most recorded jazz bassist in history. Early in his career during the mid 1960's, Ron was part of what most consider the 2nd great Miles Davis Quintet along with Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock and Tony Williams.

Essential Sound Products Host Power Cable Seminar At IAR In New York

New York City, NY, USA, October, 2017 - Essential Sound Products presented technical details and answered questions relating to how ac power cords affect the performance of audio components at the prestigious Institute Of Audio Research (IAR). The presentsation was given on the eve of the 143rd Audio Engineeing Socitey convention. Presenters included mastering engineer Maor Appelbaum, recording/mix engineer Richard Waller III and Michael Griffin, inventor and Essential Sound Products president.

The 2-hour presentation and Q&A session focused on technical details about audio equipment power supplies, the primary component parts and their functions, with special emphasis on energy storage devices. Included was an overview of the design evolution of power supplies from the 1970’s to the present, and its performance implication. Modern power supplies are capable of responding much faster to changes in audio signal amplitude and frequency spectrum.

Power supply performance was discussed from a system perspective, examining what happens as a musical signal is processed. Oscilloscope screen shots revealed how current amplitude is modulated by the musical signal to recharge energy storage devices during a small fraction of the voltage carrier frequency cycle.

Power cable design characteristics were discussed in relation to its functional objective as part of the overall power supply system. Measurement data was shared showing performance differences among several power cable designs and in-application performance effects of specific features such as shielding and how it reduces audio equipment noise. In-application data also included 3rd party measurements showing how switching from a stock power cord to in this case a MusicCord-PRO significantly lowered Total Harmonic (THD) and Intermodulation (IMD) distortions.

“Judging by how attentive the audience participants seemed and the lively Q&A session, I think most attendees got a lot out of the seminar” commented the main presenter Michael Griffin. Griffin added “I hope we dispelled some of the myths about power cords. They do fundamentally affect audio equipment power supply performance, and there are opportunities for improving power cable designs to optimize performance.”

A highlight of the presentation was the review of null tests results. Maor Appelbaum, the engineer who performed the null tests, lead the discussion. A null test is a definitive way to confirm whether a difference exists between two copies of the same audio sample. Two sample-locked files are played with one phase inverted. If the files are identical they will cancel each other. If not, what will remain is the difference between the two. The null tests results, comparing files made with stock 18- and 14-gauge, and MusicCord-PRO power cords, revealed significant performance differences in the range of 10-20 dB.

The presentation was followed by a visual demonstration showing that just by swapping the power cable connected to an LED light bulb from an 18-gauge to MusicCord-PRO, the brightness was noticably increased. A lively question and answer session wrapped up the event.

Maor Appelbaum is a mastering engineer and owner of Maor Appelbaum Mastering located in suburban Los Angeles, CA. He has broad experience with the international music industry, mastering various styles of music and sounds from all over the world. Credits include mastering projects by Faith No More and Lupe Fiasco. Mr. Appelbaum also specializes in mastering for all major Internet and social media platforms.

Richard Waller III is a Grammy winning, multi-platinum recording and mixing engineer, and owner of Smackhouse Recording Studios located in Philadelphia, PA. He has more than 25 years’ experience in the music industry as a record producer, engineer, musician and educator. Credits include recording and mix engineer on projects by Gerald Veasley and John Legend. Additionally, Mr. Waller is a BMI songwriter and publisher, and a NARAS (The Grammys) member.

Michael Griffin is president and founder of Essential Sound Products headquartered in Rochester, MI. He has over 35 years’ experience in product design, engineering and project management. Mr. Griffin holds five (5) US patents for product inventions including the cable geometries employed in the company’s line of high performance audio power cords.

Essential Sound Products Receives Positive Feedback’s “Audio Oasis” Award For AXPONA 2018 Exhibit

Chicago, IL, USA, April, 2018 – “Positive Feedback”, a premier High-End Audio magazine, announced the recipients of their “Audio Oasis” award for special recognition “of truly superior show room sonics & musical experience” at AXPONA 2018. Among those receiving the award was the exhibit that included products from Essential Sound Products, Convergent Audio Technology, van den Hul, Finest Fidelity, Accustic Arts and Vermeer.

The “Audio Oasis” award is based upon consensus feedback from the entire Positive Feedback editorial staff attending the show and is signed by Editor-in-Chief David Robinson. “We are honored that our exhibit is among those to receive this distinction. I want to extend my congratulations to the other companies whose products comprised the wonderful sounding demonstration system we all contributed to at AXPONA 2018” commented Essential Sound Products’ president Michael Griffin. “The outstanding performance achieved was a testament to the synergy of design as well as excellence in execution. We are proud that The Essence Reference-II Power System was included to provide a foundation of abundant clean ac power and allow the other components to perform at their best.”

The Essence power cord has been renowned for its groundbreaking performance since the original version was introduced in 1995. The 5th generation Reference-II is based upon patented, shielded cable technology at once affords the highest fidelity, rich natural tonal palette, lifelike dynamic contrast and transient speed, and the quietest backgrounds. The Essence Reference-II combines state-of-the-art design and the best materials with our proprietary termination process.

AXPONA (Audio Expo North America) 2018, held this year April 13-15 at Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center in Schaumburg (a suburb of Chicago), is the largest high-end audio show in North America. According to AXPONA Vice President of Sales Mark Freed, this year’s show set records for listening rooms (165) and attendees (8,134).

Independent, Objective Tests Confirm MusicCord-PRO Improves Component Performance

Rochester, Michigan, USA, September 2015 - Essential Sound Products releases guitar amplifier performance measurements supplied by Henriksen Amplifiers, comparing frequency response and distortion, using the "stock" 18-gauge power cord and MusicCord-PRO. These data show significant improvements in the amplifier's frequency response and total harmonic distortion, and even more dramatic reduction in intermodulation distortion.

Why should you care? While audio enthusiasts and recording industry professionals are being trained to think that higher bit rates and sampling frequencies are the holy grail of digital recording and playback perfection, they might be overlooking a far more damaging source of distortion artifacts that have come to be negatively associated with "digital sound". By significantly reducing intermodulation distortion, MusicCord power cords make "digital" sound more "analog", and analog even clearer with more natural warmth.

While most audio components are judged based upon subjective listening evaluation, many skeptics are quick to impose a different standard when it comes to audio cables, especially ac power cords. Having already bought into the paradigm that audio cables are "snake oil", they immediately will say "show me some objective test results".

Well, the good folks at Henriksen Amplifiers have provided just what the skeptics and naysayers have asked for, independent, objective test data. They purchased a MusicCord-PRO power cord after it was recommended by jazz guitarist Jacque Lesure. A group of Henriksen employees listened to "The Bud" guitar amplifier with the stock 18-gauge power cord and then MusicCord-PRO. They did blind testing and found the (MusicCord-PRO) cable "had an effect on high and low end clarity." Still skeptical, Henriksen engineer Nathan Mender decided to do some comparative performance testing.

First, a frequency response comparison was performed. The graph to the right shows the results. Notice that with stock power cord, the response curve is comparatively jagged with an approximate 2 dB notch deviation at 2kHz. The amplifier frequency response curve using MusicCord-PRO is smooth with no abrupt deviations. The engineer commented "…the frequency response curve is smoother with the (MusicCord-PRO) cable, which results in a more natural and accurate reproduction of sound."

Next, the amplifier's levels of Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) and Intermodulation Distortion (IMD) were measured using the stock power cord and then MusicCord-PRO. Total Harmonic Distortion was reduced from an average 0.20% to 0.18%, about a 10% reduction. Intermodulation Distortion was reduced from an average 0.79% to 0.39%, a greater than 50% reduction!

Intermodulation Distortion is caused by amplitude modulation of signals containing two or more frequencies, which are not "harmonic" or some multiple of either frequency. Because it is not masked by the harmonics of the signal, Iintermodulation Distortion is much more perceptible to human hearing and is exhibited as distortion such as midrange harshness on dynamic peaks, loss of definition in bass frequencies, and a loss of resolution and soundstage spatial cues such as depth and left-to-right separation of image objects.

New MusicCord Power Cord Positive Retention System

Rochester, Michigan, USA, June, 2013 - Essential Sound Products adds adhesive backed "hook and loop" squares with MusicCord & MusicCord-PRO power cords to form a positive retention system when used with the included cord wrap.

MusicCord and MusicCord-PRO power cords are used by a number of touring musicians. In working with them we learned that some with "tall stack" amplifiers can have the IEC power cord jack elevated so as to suspend most of the power cable length in the air. The IEC connection is not designed for positive retention. Therefore, the suspended cable weight can cause disengagement.

MusicCord and MusicCord-PRO already come with a "hook and loop" cord wrap for securing the coiled cable in transport. We saw an opportunity to use the cord wrap to provide positive retention for the IEC connection. Now included free with every 2-meter (or longer) length MusicCord and MusicCord-PRO power cord is an adhesive-backed "hook" square. Once affixed above the IEC jack on your amplifier, the cord wrap can be engaged, forming a reliable retention system that supports the weight and relieves stress on the chassis jack.

MusicCord Professional Series power cords are based upon a patented multiple-conductor cable design that replaces a single line or neutral conductor with several smaller conductors. This design eliminates phase distortions and speeds current flow to the component's power supply. MusicCord's groundbreaking performance is matched only by its rugged, high quality construction. MusicCord power cords also establish a new industry standard for quality and reliability. Their road-worthy build quality is validated by meeting hospital grade standards for mechanical integrity. MusicCord and MusicCord-PRO power cords are backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

MusicCord-PRO Earns Highest Ratings For Build & Sound Quality by UK's "Bass Guitar Magazine"

December, 2012 - One of Europe's most influential bass publications "Bass Guitar Magazine" evaluated MusicCord-PRO power cord and rated it in three categories. The results confirmed the PRO's outstanding combination of performance and build quality. MusicCord-PRO scored a 9/10 for performance and 10/10 for build quality!

"Bass Guitar Magazine" is the first publication outside of North America to formally evaluate MusicCord power cords. This is significant as many international customers who have 220-240 Volts ac mains service wonder how MusicCord-PRO would perform in their home country. The results are in - MusicCord-PRO excels in the UK, Eurpoe & worldwide!

MusicCord-PRO is avaialble in standard (black), Victor Wooten (purple) and Gerald Veasley (red) "Signature" versions. For additional information, please cick on links below.

MusicCord-PRO Power Cord And The Movie "John Carter"

Rochester, Michigan, USA, March, 2012 - Essential Sound Products' MusicCord-PRO power cords were used with microphone pre-amps and other components to record the strings for the musical score to the movie "John Carter".

String instruments including violins and cellos were recorded at the Sony - Barbara Streisand Recording Stage in November and December 2011. A total of nine (9) MusicCord-PRO power cords were used with microphone pre-amplifiers and other critical components in the recording chain. The impact of using MusicCord-PRO in the recording process was reported to be more natural warmth and sweetness overall, and better image focus, especially noticable on the cello solos. "John Carter" debuts at theaters in the United States and Canada on Friday, March 9, 2012.

MusicCord Professional Series power cords are based upon a patented multiple-conductor cable design that replaces a single line or neutral conductor with several smaller conductors. This design eliminates phase distortions and speeds current flow to the component's power supply. MusicCord's groundbreaking performance is matched only by its rugged, high quality construction. MusicCord power cords also establish a new industry standard for quality and reliability. Their road-worthy build quality is validated by meeting hospital grade standards for mechanical integrity. To achieve this designation, MusicCord power cords had to pass additional mechanical abuse testing. MusicCord and MusicCord-PRO power cords are backed by our limited lifetime warranty.

About Essential Sound Products

Essential Sound Products, Inc. is a custom designer and manufacturer of high-performance ac power components and cable accessories for all audio and video applications including instrument amplifiers and studio recording gear, home audio and home theater systems, PA and residential/commercial custom installations. The company has been a pioneer in ac power cordage innovation since introduction of 'The Essence' brand of ac power products to high end audio enthusiast in 1995. Essential Sound Products is headquartered in Rochester, Michigan. All products are designed and assembled the USA.