Furutech FI-11-N1 (G)

The Furutech FI-11-N1(G) is a female IEC connector designed for audio systems. It features 24-karat gold plating and an anti-resonance design. Engineered according to Furutech’s Pure Transmission philosophy, this model combines selected materials and precise engineering to ensure stable AC power delivery to audio equipment.

Construction and materials engineering

The FI-11-N1(G)’s conductive core uses non-magnetic α phosphor bronze. This specific bronze choice offers excellent conductivity while eliminating magnetic interference that can affect current transmission. The α composition ensures a crystal structure favorable to electron flow, reducing resistance and energy loss.

The 24-karat gold plating fully covers the contact surfaces. Unlike commonly used gold alloys, pure 24-karat gold contains no other metals that could oxidize. This purity ensures minimal, time-stable contact resistance regardless of ambient humidity or repeated use. Pure gold also offers a distinct sonic signature: Furutech describes it as producing warm mids and smooth highs, as opposed to rhodium-plated copper which tends toward a more analytical presentation.

The connector’s integrated Floating Field Damper system deserves particular attention. This patented device uses damping materials strategically placed around the conductors to absorb mechanical vibrations and neutralize parasitic magnetic fields. Micro-vibrations, even imperceptible ones, can modulate the electrical signal; the Floating Field Damper system aims to isolate the contacts from these external disturbances.

The front body combines nylon and fiberglass to provide structural rigidity and electrical insulation. The black polycarbonate shell ensures mechanical protection while keeping mass low. The cable clamp, made from non-magnetic stainless steel, uses M4 x 20 mm screws to ensure a firm grip on the cable without excessive compression that could degrade the internal conductors.

Compatibility and integration in audio systems

The FI-11-N1(G) accepts cables with diameters between 6.6 mm and 16.0 mm. With optional extended screws, this range extends up to 20 mm, allowing the integration of large-gauge mains power cables. This flexibility facilitates the assembly of custom power cords suited to the most current-hungry components: Class A power amplifiers, linear-powered DACs, tube preamps.

Its compact dimensions (77.0 mm overall length, 39.0 mm diameter) allow installation even in tight spaces behind equipment. The body measures 44.0 mm, leaving ample room for handling without excessive strain on the cable.

Electrical specifications cover a rated voltage of 250 VAC (European standard) and 125 VAC (American standard), with rated current of 10 A and 15 A. These values are suitable for most home audio equipment, except perhaps very high-power amplifiers that may require dedicated 20 A connectors.

The connector is a natural fit for custom power cord projects. Users can pair the FI-11-N1(G) with appropriately sized cables (generally 2.5 mm² to 4 mm²) and an equally high-quality male plug. Furutech offers compatible male plugs in its range, such as the FI-28(G) in the gold version as well.

Sonic signature and tonal character

Furutech attributes a direct influence on sound quality to the 24-karat gold plating. The manufacturer describes a warm, harmonious presentation with powerful, detailed bass and smooth highs. This characterization suggests a musical presentation that prioritizes tonal coherence and fluidity rather than extreme transient resolution.

The α phosphor bronze also contributes to this signature. Less bright than pure OFC copper, it is said by some users to produce denser mids and a slightly more compact yet better-focused soundstage. These observations are naturally subjective and highly dependent on the system into which the connector is integrated.

By reducing micro-vibrations and magnetic interference, the Floating Field Damper system aims to improve bass clarity and the stability of the stereo image. Parasitic vibrations can blur fast transients; their suppression should theoretically preserve fine details and the dynamics of complex passages.

Systems seeking musicality and tonal coherence will find an appropriate partner in the FI-11-N1(G). Conversely, setups favoring an ultra-analytical presentation and ultra-resolved mids might prefer rhodium-plated or pure silver connectors, which generally offer a more incisive signature.

Technical specifications

Electrical specifications

• Type: 2 poles + earth
• Rated voltage: 250 V AC, 125 V AC
• Rated current: 10 A, 15 A

Construction and materials

• Conductor: Non-magnetic α (Alpha) phosphor bronze
• Plating: 24K gold
• Anti-magnetic system: Floating Field Damper System
• Front body: Nylon / fiberglass
• Shell: Black polycarbonate
• Clamp: Non-magnetic stainless steel with M4 x 20 mm screw

Dimensions and compatibility

• Compatible cable diameter: 6.6 mm to 16.0 mm
  • Up to 20 mm with extended screw
• Body length: 44.0 mm
• Diameter: 39.0 mm
• Total length: 77.0 mm

Sound characteristics

• Smooth, warm, and expressive sound, ideal for natural listening
• Powerful, detailed bass
• Harmonious, silky highs
• Warm and harmonious sound reproduction thanks to 24K gold plating
• Suitable for systems seeking musicality, coherence, and expressiveness

Key features

• Stable, musical transmission based on Pure Transmission principles
• Durable, oxidation-resistant 24K gold finish
• Anti-resonance, non-magnetic design
• Anti-magnetic field stabilization system
• Compatible with a wide range of audiophile cables
• Each element optimized to ensure detail and dynamics in power transmission

General information

The Furutech FI-11-N1(G) is a high-performance IEC connector that combines Japanese build quality with refined musicality. Designed according to Pure Transmission principles, this 24K gold version delivers exceptional sound reproduction with powerful bass and smooth highs, ensuring detail and dynamics in power transmission.