AudioQuest NRG-X3 Power Cable (C5 > 3-Prong Wall Plug)
Upgrade the power feed to your compact hi-fi and desktop gear with the AudioQuest NRG-X3 C5 power cable. It uses direction-controlled, Semi-Solid Concentric Long-Grain Copper (LGC) conductors designed to reduce RF noise and minimize distortion-causing strand interaction, helping your system sound cleaner and more focused. Built with a durable nylon-braided jacket and cold-welded terminations, NRG-X3 is a high-value step up from standard “in-the-box” cords for components where low noise and stable power delivery matter. The IEC-C5 (cloverleaf) connector makes it ideal for many streamers, DACs, powered speakers, and other low-to-moderate current devices that use a C5 inlet.
What It’s Good At:
- Lowering noise for cleaner backgrounds and improved detail in audio and A/V systems
- Upgrading power for C5-equipped devices (common on compact components and many power supplies)
- Delivering more consistent performance versus generic molded power cords
- Reducing RF noise through direction-controlled conductors
- Holding up to daily use with a tough nylon-braided outer jacket
- Being an easy, high-impact first upgrade for entry-to-mid level systems
AudioQuest NRG-X3 Power Cable (C5 > 3-Prong Wall Plug) — Full Specifications:
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Product: AudioQuest NRG-X3 Power Cable
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Connector / Plug: IEC C5 (equipment end) > 3-Prong Wall Plug
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Conductor Metal: Semi-Solid Concentric Long-Grain Copper (LGC)
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Conductor Topology: Semi-Solid Concentric
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Directionality: Direction-Controlled Conductors (arrows marked on connectors where applicable)
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Wire Gauge: 16 AWG
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Terminations: Cold-Welded
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Maximum RMS Current: 15 Amp @ 120VAC 60 Hz
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Market Availability: United States
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Sold As: Each
AudioQuest NRG-X3 Power Cable (C5 > 3-Prong Wall Plug) Q&A:
- What does “C5” mean on this power cable?
- C5 refers to the IEC “cloverleaf” equipment connector used on many compact components and power supplies. This NRG-X3 version connects a C5 device inlet to a standard 3-prong wall outlet.
- What types of gear typically use an IEC C5 connector?
- Many streamers, DACs, powered desktop speakers, and various compact A/V components or external power supplies use IEC C5. Always confirm your device inlet is C5 (cloverleaf) before ordering.
- Will this cable make an audible difference versus a standard cord?
- NRG-X3 is built to reduce RF noise and minimize distortion sources related to conductor design, which can help reveal cleaner backgrounds and better low-level detail—especially in resolving systems.
- What is “Long-Grain Copper (LGC)” and why does it matter?
- LGC is a high-purity copper with fewer grain boundaries than typical copper, intended to reduce distortion associated with those boundaries and improve power integrity.
- What does “Semi-Solid Concentric” do?
- Semi-Solid Concentric conductors keep strands in a more stable relationship, reducing strand interaction—one contributor to distortion in cable designs.
- What does “direction-controlled” mean, and do I need to orient the cable a certain way?
- AudioQuest controls conductor direction to help drain induced RF noise away from sensitive circuits. If your cable has arrows on the connectors, install it so the arrows point from the wall outlet toward the component.
- Can I use this with a power conditioner or power strip?
- Yes—plug the wall end into your conditioner/strip and the C5 end into your device, as long as the device uses a C5 inlet and the setup matches your power requirements.
- Is this cable intended for high-current amplifiers?
- This is the C5 (cloverleaf) version, which is most commonly used for lower-to-moderate current devices that accept a C5 inlet. For large amplifiers or components with C13/C19 inlets, choose the matching connector type instead.
