240 Volt configuration and balanced power: A free lunch?
Balanced power is definitely an attractive option for a number of reasons, and I use it when I can. However, it is not the panacea that some may like you to believe. 240 volts allows one to operate in balanced mode without an (additional) stepdown transformer in the line. It also allows the circuit to deliver the same power at 1/2 the current, or double the power at the same current which can be beneficial if the component or components are in a configuration that may limit current in the 120 volt configuration. 240 volt configuration also eliminates any common mode noise that may be present in the system.
On the other hand, not all of the noise on one's A/C is present as common mode, and 240 volts does nothing to eliminate differential mode noise. Even when running 240v/balanced mode, a system will benefits from a differential mode line conditioner like the Foundation Research LC1s and LC2s, which will run in either 240 or 120 without any changes required in the units. The nice thing about using these units at 240 is that, because they are restricted by current and not voltage, they are capable of delivering twice the power at 240 volts as they can at 120 as is the case with with the rest of the circuit.
There are other variables such as component power supply design that can have an impact on the performance at 120 versus 240 volts, also there is the safety aspect of wiring outlets in 240 versus 120. Make sure you stay in compliance with your local electrical code no matter what you decide to do.
Kerry Legeard B. A. Sc. P. Eng
Music First Distribution
