Is an isolation transformer better than a power conditioner?

'Improved but not dramatically'

I posit that such a perceived change not further described is highly likely to be the result of expectation bias and not an objective sound improvement.  The description is low-key and unexciting, expressing disappointment and not satisfaction.  Non-specific and not recognising any particular change in the sound.  A sop to the supplier who took the dollars and a false justification to assuage the dollars spent.

As an electronic engineer, I feel that power conditioners should not be necessary. The power supplies inside quality audio kit should be able to reject any noise on the powerline, it's flawed if it can't! Where there may be a benefit is with main AC driven turntables, where noise may be transmitted to the motor.

Personally I like dedicated lines into the sound room and furutech receptacles and power cords all these I find far better than any power conditioner I bought or tried. Regards

@mglik 

Given my long term experiences I'd encourage you to go the route of the balanced AC transformer via Equitech. I have not heard theirs specifically  but the principle/concept is good and the brand is well regarded. I've used the BPT 3.5 Signature plus (Balanced AC PC/isolation transformer) for over 13 years and it is excellent in my opinion. Every component is plugged in to it including my SET amplifiers. They all sound noticeably better than when  plugged into my 20 amp dedicated line wall circuit. I am a very firm proponent for  balanced AC electrical power for audio components.

Charles

gdnrbob,

Funny that he compared the top of the line PS Audio P-20 unit to the second from the top AudioQuest. While the top of the line AudioQuest Niagara 7000 is similar in price to the PS P-20.

Also, why was it necessary to use a 3 meter Hurricane power cord?

I have owned many conditioners. In fact I owned several PS products. While I thought it was a good product, connecting power amps never seemed like a good thing. On the other hand, the Audioquest 700 shines with power amps.

ozzy

Here is a link to an article I think you might be interested in looking at:

Bob

I auditioned a number of PC some years ago, PS Audio regen, Shunyata Hydra, Audience Adept Response, can't recall others. Prefer my BPT 3.5 Signature with mods for all front end equipment, no PC for amps. I recall hearing the balanced transformer pc as more natural, others more hifi, processed sounding.

My opinion is that the benefit of the power conditioner/transformer/regenerator is often exaggerated.  Your characterization that "SQ is improved but not dramatically" is about the best you can hope for. 

This coming from a guy that has a power regenerator in transit to me. But my expectations are low.  Hopefully I will be impressed.

Jerry

The result of power conditioners is highly dependent on your home and the incoming power. Typically direct lines (one for components and one for the power amp) is always a good improvement.

Generally the power conditioner is used only for components… with your improvements you will have to see if there is still a good improvement with the power conditioner. In my circumstances there is… 30 seconds of listening without my power conditioner is plenty to realize it is doing important work.

If you can, try a Audioquest Niagara 7000, you will be impressed.

ozzy