Furutech FP-SWS-D (G)
Furutech FP-SWS-D(G), double Schuko wall outlet
The final metre of a system’s power supply is often the least carefully considered: a few-euro recessed outlet, thin brass contacts, clamping that loosens over the years. Furutech applies the same care to this connection point as it does to its power cable connectors, with gold-plated pure copper and a redesigned clamping mechanism. The FP-SWS-D(G) brings this approach to a dual Schuko-standard format.
Two Schuko outlets on a single frame
The dual format distinguishes this model from the single version in the same series. Two 2-pole + earth outlets are fitted on a single 152 mm long by 81 mm wide plate, connected to one supply feed. An integrated amplifier and its source, or a power amplifier and a powered subwoofer, can be plugged in side by side without an intermediate power strip or extension lead behind the furniture. It is rated at 16 A at 250 V.
Cold-treated then demagnetised copper
The conductors are 0.5 mm thick pure alpha copper, gold-plated and non-magnetic. The alpha designation refers to the two-stage treatment Furutech applies to its metal parts. First, cryogenic treatment with nitrogen or liquid helium, between -196 and -250 °C, relieves internal stresses in the metal. This is followed by ring demagnetisation, under Sekiguchi Machine Sale licence, which neutralises residual magnetisation rather than shifting it from one area to another as a fixed magnet would.
From a measurable standpoint, the benefit of a gold-plated contact lies primarily in its long-term stability: gold does not oxidise, and contact resistance does not drift with repeated plugging and unplugging. The reasoning relating to molecular structure and magnetisation involves effects that are considerably more difficult to isolate through listening.
The patented pressure plate
The clamping mechanism is where this outlet differs most from an ordinary socket. A specifically designed, patented pressure plate presses the cable conductor against the alpha conductor over an enlarged surface area, whereas a conventional screw terminal crushes the wire against an edge. A larger contact surface means lower transition resistance and less heating at the same current. It also provides clamping that holds up better over time, as copper slowly flows under overly concentrated pressure.
Glass-fibre-reinforced nylon and steel support
The body is moulded from glass-fibre-reinforced nylon, the cover from polycarbonate, and the front plate from ABS. The mounting support is a 1.0 mm thick zinc-coated steel plate that takes up the tightening forces on the recessed mounting box. Everything surrounding the conductors is therefore insulating, with no stray metal parts in the immediate vicinity of the current path. It is a straightforward construction, without a carbon fascia or NCF body as found on the higher-end Schuko models in the brand’s catalogue.
Screw terminals accepting 10 AWG
Connection is made by screw terminals, with conductors up to 2.8 mm in diameter or 5.5 mm², equivalent to 10 AWG. The allowance is generous for a domestic installation: a standard outlet circuit is wired with 2.5 mm² cable in France, and a dedicated 4 mm² line for a power amplifier fits without difficulty. However, 6 mm² exceeds the stated limit. This conductor capacity has a physical trade-off: the thicker the cable, the stiffer it is, and the box must allow room to bend three conductors behind a 48 mm-deep unit.
Installation to be entrusted to an electrician
Three dimensions determine installation feasibility: 152 mm long, 81 mm wide and 48 mm deep. The length corresponds to a dual recessed mounting box with the standard 71 mm centre-to-centre spacing. The depth requires a 50 mm box, rather than the shallow models still found in older partition walls. Installation should be carried out by a professional: power isolation at the electrical panel, earth continuity testing, and compliance with the applicable installation standard.
There is one European characteristic to be aware of. The Schuko standard uses two lateral earth contacts, with no protruding pin, whereas French type E outlets have a central pin. A CEE 7/7 hybrid plug, as used on almost all hi-fi power cables sold in France, plugs into either type. A pure Schuko plug, without a pin socket, cannot be inserted into a French outlet: switching to the FP-SWS-D(G) removes this limitation. The plug can then be inserted either way round, and phase orientation depends on the direction chosen when plugging in, to be identified with a tester if this matters to you.
Technical Specifications
Type and Electrical Performance
- Double SCHUKO wall outlet
- Type: 2 poles + earth
- Rating: 16 A / 250 V AC
Conductors
- Pure copper α (Alpha) gold-plated conductor
- Thickness: 0.5 mm
- Specially designed patented pressure plate, increasing the contact surface of the Alpha conductors, reflecting Furutech’s attention to detail and manufacturing quality
Materials and Construction
- Body: nylon / fiberglass
- Cover: polycarbonate
- Mounting bracket: 1.0 mm thick steel / zinc plate
- Front plate: ABS
Wiring
- Admissible cable diameter: 2.8 mm or 5.5 mm² / 10 AWG maximum (clamping screws)
Dimensions
- Length: 152.0 mm
- Width: 81.0 mm
- Height: 48.0 mm
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference from the basic FP-SWS(G) model?
The number of mounting boxes and the overall size. The single version measures 95 mm by 95 mm with the same depth of 48 mm and mounts on a single-gang box. The conductors, plating, pressure plate, and materials are identical. The choice depends on the number of devices to be powered in the same location and on the box already installed in the wall.
Gold or rhodium, what difference does it make in the Furutech range?
The brand’s Schuko wall outlet catalog includes two families. The FP series, to which this model belongs, uses alpha pure copper gold plating. The FT NCF series switches to rhodium and adds Nano Crystal² Formula, an antistatic and damping material integrated into the outlet body. Gold conducts better but remains soft. Rhodium is more resistant to wear from repeated insertions and withstands a greater number of connection cycles.
Does a French plug fit into it without any problem?
Yes, for cables with CEE 7/7 plugs, the hybrid plug that has both side grounding clips and a pin socket. This is the case for almost all mains cables sold in France, hi-fi or otherwise. A flat plug with only a pin socket, without side grounding clips, would not establish the earth connection. This is mainly found on older equipment.
Does the outlet filter or regulate the mains power?
No. It is a passive connection base, with no filtering components, no surge protection, and no voltage regulation. The work focuses solely on contact quality and contact resistance. A power conditioner or surge protector remains a separate device, to be placed downstream.
Do both stands use the same gauge?
Yes. They are supplied by the same feed, and the total available current is determined by the circuit breaker protecting the line. Connecting a power amplifier and a powered subwoofer to the two outlets does not double the current capacity. However, it shortens the path between the two devices and gives them a common ground point.
Can it be surface-mounted rather than recessed?
The unit is designed for flush mounting, with its zinc-coated steel mounting plate and front plate. Surface mounting requires a back box compatible with the 152 mm by 81 mm dimensions, to be confirmed with the electrician before ordering.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
