2. misc-audio
  3. 176218-20609

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
adasdad's avatar
adasdad
136 posts
 

@analogj, no I wasn’t suggesting that only the power cord is critical in helping any systems SQ. The power cable in conjunction with a good power conditioner should work together to help keep the electricity running through your mains clean. A lot of what will work best in any system can depend on system synergy, the compatibility of different components to work together for the most optimal sound.

     For example @markiew commented that for him the Puritan 156 did more than an AudioQuest Niagara 3000 and an AQ Hurricane power cable in his setup. 

 

kellyp's avatar
kellyp
104 posts
 
analogj wrote

Okay, I can potentially understand the benefits of greater noise reduction, but are there other factors which contribute to how well a PLC will affect the sound?

 

INDUCTANCE.

analogj OP
105 posts
 

@kellyp Could you explain? 

normb's avatar
normb
166 posts
 

I’ve had one CNN of these over two years now for my system. Works fine. Have similar smaller units for computers in two rooms, a larger one for TV/audio in another room. Output is clean, to keep rfi/emi off input I use simple clamp-on ferrite chokes - works for my ham radio equipment.

you did specify inexpensive.

APC UPS 1500VA Sine Wave UPS Battery Backup, BR1500MS2 Backup Battery Power Supply with AVR, (2) USB Charger Ports https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GRY1W93/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_DT698HR0MVRKADDH5ASB?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

 

normb's avatar
normb
166 posts
 

Remind me to turn off spellcheck. Some stray character turned into cnn - I wouldn’t touch that propaganda with someone else’s eyes. Mobile page doesn’t allow editing ✍🏻 

More to discover