Neutrik NAC3F-TRUE1-S

This is a review for all the powerCON TRUE1 connectors, as they're all of the same design and build quality and if you're using the plug, you need the socket as well ;)

These are great for distributing power. For me, it's building a range of male-female powerCON cables to sort power around stages for distribution boxes.

They make a very satisfying twist lock when connecting, and they just work.

Pros:
- They're locking - they won't shake loose, and are quick to plug in
- They're tamper proof - need a tool to open them and a regular screwdriver won't unhook the wires
- Easy to setup. All three cables are cut and stripped to the same length, no uneven lengths or squashing cables in the housing
- Weatherproof. Or at least a lot more weatherproof than a domestic plug and socket (depends on how used)
- Smaller than regular mains plugs / sockets (in the UK at least)

Cons (sort of - more just some things to bear in mind):
- Until you're used to the system, it's a little difficult to differentiate between "plug" and "socket", leading to dragging the wrong end over the stage (I still do this with XLR though to be fair). Labelling of cables solves this
- Specialist tools. You need a specialist spanner to take it apart and a Torx T8 driver to build / dismantle. This might not be considered a con, since it makes it tamper proof. Something to bear in mind though if it needs repairing in the field. If you have access to a 3D printer, you can make the spanner yourself
- The chassis/panel mount versions of these sockets are quite expensive. If you just need the leads (putting a plug on a 4-gang socket tail, making up some leads, and putting a socket on a mains plug), then it works out cheap. If you're putting together boxes with ins and outs on them, it adds up a bit
- Not fused. Again, not a con in the slightest, but you need to make sure you've got fuses in the system. If you're replacing regular mains plugs and sockets with these for stage gear, you might not have as much protection unless you plan accordingly (I'm building a stagebox with mains sockets and a powerCON input - I've put a fuse holder in the box). Just something to think about

In short, these provide a lot of opportunity to streamline your setup. A variety of cable lengths means you can make up custom extension cables to suit. Stageboxes can have power distribution built-in. Lighting rigs can be made tidy and secure.