2. amps-preamps
  3. 186364-105315

Not sure for power conditioner my amp or not.

Hi, I have an VTA ST-120 I built using KT88C’s for my 2 channel. I have all my equipment running through a Torus Power TOT MAX Toroidal Isolation. I have heard 2 different versions on what to do. As far as what to plug my amp into. The wall or the TOT’s? I know this isn’t a "power conditioner" such as PS Audio sells. Should I keep everything plugged into the TOT, so all my grounds are the same and it has the optional surge protection? Or straight into the wall? I tried the wall once, but didn’t hear a difference really. But I didn’t test for long and not sure I ever got to the point of drawing too much power from the amp. Which is the best way to leave it? Thanks! Scott

VTA ST-120

128x128smoorenc
bolong
613 posts
 

My Primaluna EVO 400 pre and power amps are plugged directly into the Hubbel wall outlets dedicated line. Since I don't leave these tube amps on 24/7 it is easy to just leave them unplugged when not in use and when I am not around to monitor lightning storms.

The CD transport and DAC are left on all the time and plugged into a Shunyata Hydra 4. These two front end components are also fitted with DIY ground boxes via RCA component connection (ie "signal grounds.")

This has been a very satisfactory arrangement.

smoorenc's avatar
smoorenc OP
48 posts
 

Nice! I should just unplug the Zero Surge when I am out of the house. It would be easy enough to do.

bolong
613 posts
 

The Primaluna's are tube amps which explains why I don't or can't just leave them on all the time. Were these solid state amps I would want them on 24/7 to keep them warmed up. The CD transport and DAC are best left on all the time which is why I keep them on surge protection.

smoorenc's avatar
smoorenc OP
48 posts
 

I have a tube DAC and tube phono pre-amp, so I turn them all off.

erik_squires
16,104 posts
 

If I lived in a location with lightening I would probably install someting like this on the power to my equipment.

 

The problem around here is you don't always know when lightning will happen in advance, and certainly don't' know a transformer just got hit by a car.  I mean, sure, when  a big storm rolls around I turn my conditioners off and sometimes even the breaker, but lots of times lightning has come out of nowhere at 3 AM around here. 

One of the stupid surge damages I used to suffer from was WIND storms taking out my DirecTV.  Apparently the excess wind would deposit excess electrons on the antenna surface and ZAP!  Out goes my satellite receiver.  Good to have high quality coax protection as well.

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