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Dedicated AC Lines??

I'm new to all of this AC stuff, but grateful to all who post here. I've noticed modest improvements after upgrading the AC cord to my amp (jolida 302B). I added a Shunyata Cobra and a Guardian 4 conditioner. I have what I call one-step-upgrade cables on my Jolida CD player and Jolida Phono Stage (I like to keep it all in the family!). I'm just listening in here and trying to figure out if maybe improving my AC lines would be a better approach. My system is on a circuit with 3 computers and other computer stuff like drive bays and printers. I guess I'm wondering if adding a dedicated line would really do anything. All of this 'noise' surely travels back through the breaker and onto the main bus bar in the panel right? Then right back out to all other circuits in the house, including any dedicated line I would add right? I'm no electrical engineer (just civil/structural).

So if one were to install dedicated lines where do you start? Main panel, service entrance?

What about multiple lines? I've heard one line is better for grounding and hum.
arch7
arch7 OP
35 posts
 
Zargon:
Thanks for your input. Can you tell me more about these Topaz Iso's? Which models, are they hard wired, approx cost? I'm trying to evaluate the cost for all of these potential AC upgrades. Dedicated lines may be tough in my house since the audio gear is located in a room without a basement underneath. It would involve running lines outside the house which would be a mess.
Thanks!
arch7 OP
35 posts
 
Also Zargon, are you using power conditioners too or does the transformer fix that issue? In other words can i skip for the ISO if i have a decent conditioner? When i move to another house I'll take the AC into account.
zargon's avatar
zargon
453 posts
 
Topaz is no longer in business, however, their products are excellent and can be found used in electronic surplus houses of larger cities. I located 2 4kva isos for $300 and have seen them on the internet at $500 plus shipping (both far far less than retail in the 80s). You will need to connect the iso to 1 phase of the main panel and then connect it to a new panel for the dedicated circuits. Unless you are experienced with this type of thing and understand the electrical codes, I suggest an electrician.

I my opinion, the iso precludes the need for further power conditioners and any that I have tried I have since removed with no degredation.

If you get serious about this, I would be willing to share a picture and diagram via email.
lak's avatar
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lak
4,619 posts
 
Zargon,
Good advice given.
Guy's if you haven't read this, please do so, it's interesting:
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?fcabl&1111377651&openfrom&1&4#1
arch7 OP
35 posts
 
Thanks to all who reponded to this thread! Very helpful info!
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