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Least Expensive Power Conditioner/Surge Protector That Won't Worsen Sound

I have an old Shunyata Hydra 6 that I'm sending off to Shunyata to repair. In the meantime, I'm curious - What's the least expensive power conditioner/surge protector that won't worsen the sound? 

 

I've already discovered that plugging my integrated directly into the wall sounds the best. But I have source components. I have liked the Shunyata, but just in case they're not able to get it back to like new shape, what are your thoughts? (I tried numerous PLCs at the time I bought it almost 20 years ago and I thought it, by far, sounded better than any other one I auditioned in my system, and that included the Hydra 8).

 

I see many users who have reported worsening sound when using the Audioquest PQ2 and PQ3.

 

Something like a Panamax PM 5300 or 5400?  Or the Furman Elite 15?

 

And what is the danger of under-voltage?

analogj
analogj OP
105 posts
 

I'm learning.

I realize that the Python Alpha power cord I've been using with the Hydra 6 has a c19 female connector. Other than Shunyata, what other brands of power conditioners use that style of connector so I can use the Shunyata cord, if needed be?

pcrhkr's avatar
pcrhkr
276 posts
 

I use a Furman power strip RF / voltage limiter with a Tripplight isolation transformer / voltage regulating power filter.  When compensating for low or high voltage gas never affected the sound. 

twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,318 posts
 

Puritan psm 156.  20amp socket.

markiew
36 posts
 

Another vote for the puritan 156 here.  Better than an Audioquest Niagara 3000 with Hurricane cable

analogj OP
105 posts
 

@markiew Well, at $2300 US it better do something right. 

 

Part of the issue is that I'm still officially auditioning an integrated amp. And the Panamax is making it sound considerably worse than what I heard through the Hydra 6 w/Python Alpha power cord. 

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