2. misc-audio
  3. 177377-11588

Is an isolation transformer better than a power conditioner?

I was never thrilled with my Shunyata Triton/Typhon pc.

It improves the SQ but not dramatically. And it is two large chassis that take up a lot of real estate. And not particularly attractive. And we’re $18K new! One would expect transformative performance.

Just went to great lengths and expense to run a dedicated AC line. $4.5K of special Oyaide cable, duplexes and cover plates. And $1.2K electrician.

It was also highly recommended that I also go with an isolation transformer. Went from Torus to Bryston to Equitech. Focusing on the balanced power Equitech.

Getting one, I am curious to know if it will “blow away” my T/T as I have been told.

And with the dedicated AC, maybe not plugging my amps into the new duplexes but the Et would be better. Or plugging in the Et to the T/T and the T/T into the wall.

But I sure would like to get rid of the Shunyatas.

mglik
sns
4,025 posts
 

For years I had hum, incoming voltage running between 123-126v in those years. Since repairs, 119-120v 24/7, no perceptible hum ever. Over voltages and dc offset  usual causes of transformer hum. Mounting them properly very important as well.

lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,796 posts
 

“Is an isolation transformer better than a power conditioner?”

In my experience, Yes! I had some highly rated power conditioners through my system (Audience, Nordost and Shunyata) and they all added some sort of coloration. AQ Niagara 7000 was the worst offender, dump it after 30 days trial (strangely dealer was in hurry to take it back).

I am currently using a isolation transformer and it’s dead quiet, no hum whatsoever!

ozzy's avatar
ozzy
7,648 posts
 

Wow lalitk,

Your the first person I have ever heard that did not find the Niagara 7000 impressive. Coloration? Huh? Definitely not my view...But, everyone has different components and its how it all interacts I guess.

ozzy

4krowme's avatar
4krowme
542 posts
 

 I have been in the BPT camp for a long time with no regrets. It is fine for the front end of my system. I use a Richard gray 400S for the power amp, knowing that is in parallel not series with the power amp.

 When living in Tucson, I was very lucky to have AC power that was quiet, reliable, and apparently clean to begin with. In almost every home since then, I have fought the AC demons. Some sort of leg up is needed where I live now.

audition__audio
1,683 posts
 

I agree with latik. With all conditioners I have tried it was always a 2 steps forward and 2 steps back scenario. The harmonic content of the music always seemed to suffer but the blackness of the background seemed to improve. Only with the isolation transformer did I get only a blacker background with no downside. 

More to discover