IsoTek contacted Hifi Pig to let us know that the company has upgraded their Optimum power cable.

The Optimum is the third of IsoTek’s power cables to be upgraded to the new advanced EVO3 (Evolution 3) version, and is positioned at the top of the range.   

The new EVO3 Optimum is said to deliver radical advances over its predecessor, the earlier GII version with “cutting-edge thinking in terms of conductor geometries combined with excellent materials to develop a cable of superlative quality”.

At the Optimum’s core are three silver plated copper conductors made from Ohno Continuous Cast (OCC) copper. Each of the three 3.0sqmm conductors features a new square-shaped configuration of 40 strands, each strand also being of square cross-section.

A Teflon FEP dielectric (insulation) is extruded over each conductor and the three conductors are given a slight rotational twist to “aid RFI and EMI rejection”, and are then surrounded by a cotton filler which, as well is “adding internal strength and reducing microphony, also possesses superb dielectric properties – similar to FEP”.  The whole construction is then double shielded by first enclosing it in a Mylar wrap to provide an additional dielectric buffer, before applying an active OFC copper shield for “maximum rejection of high frequency interference”. A durable, heat-resistant PVC outer jacket gives a high degree of flexibility and mechanical strength.

Finally, the EVO3 Optimum is terminated by hand using IsoTek’s bespoke audiophile grade 24-carat gold plated connectors. Connectors at the component end are available in C7, C15 and C19 IEC varieties.

“Our new EVO3 Optimum has been significantly enhanced on almost every level” says Keith Martin, IsoTek’s founder and managing director. “Compared to its predecessor, it features a larger conductor size, superior conductor material, a new innovative design, and improved dielectric and mechanical properties.”

Adds Martin, “The product has evolved, but our aim has remained the same: to deliver class-leading performance at outstanding value for money.”

The EVO3 Optimum is available from April 2014 and is priced at £595.00 (including VAT) for a 2m terminated cable.