MS HD Power

Plugs and sockets for people who build their own

MS HD Power is the audio brand of Winbo Industries, a Hong Kong manufacturer with more than forty-five years in power accessories. The range covers 13A plugs, IEC connectors, wall sockets and distribution blocks, in unplated copper and in silver, 24K gold and rhodium.

Two things separate these from most connectors sold as audiophile upgrades. They are certified: BS-1363 for the plugs, BS-1362 for the fuses, BS-EN-60320 for the IEC connectors, independently laboratory tested. And the cable is held in heavy clamps rather than by a grub screw biting into it, which is what causes creep and eventual failure. Bodies take cable up to 16mm with 4mm conductors.

Plating is a decision rather than a default. Silver has the lowest resistance of the options and its oxide stays conductive, unlike oxidised copper. Gold resists tarnish. Rhodium over silver is the hardest wearing. Contacts throughout are high spring rate phosphor bronze.

Mains wiring work should be done by a competent person. If you are unsure, have an electrician fit it.