I got a 10 amp powervar used on ebay for under 50 bucks. Has minimal transformer hum, essentially inaudible at > 3 feet away. (Did NOT purchase from Tvad!). I assume it will protect the front end pieces if lightning strikes, and that was my main reason for buying. (Also, I was able to buy a kind of cool-looking gadget-like thing that was pretty heavy, which adds to any placebo effect....so yeah, I'm happy, I think).
OK, seriously--I was unable to hear any definite sonic difference in my system, but do have a vague sense that it is probably better than just a surge protector if there's a storm, etc. Hum is inaudible at listening distance (and my hearing has been relatively recently tested and is still quite good).
OK, seriously--I was unable to hear any definite sonic difference in my system, but do have a vague sense that it is probably better than just a surge protector if there's a storm, etc. Hum is inaudible at listening distance (and my hearing has been relatively recently tested and is still quite good).