I used an isolation transformer with a balanced output for a couple of years. I really cuts down on the common mode noise (Neutral to ground) noise by 146db. Also reduced (not eliminate) a hum I had in my system. But I stopped using it because it got quite warm whether or not any equipment was on/off or in standby. It also had a 3V gain compared to the input voltage. My input voltage jumped to 125V after some work in the neighborhood. With a tube amp and an output voltage of 128V I stopped using it and picked up a re generator for fear of a voltage surge. But while I had it it did lower the noise floor. I have since traded in the re generator and plug my new SS class D amp directly into the wall (Aavik U300) with an Ansuz MainzD8 power distribution and have the best sound I ever had in my home. With the MainzD8 my noise floor dropped even more and the sound is so much more natural and 3D.
Thoughts on balanced power
I have decided that my next system upgrade will be focused on AC power. I currently use a Furman Elite 15 PFi for all components except my amp which is plugged direct to the wall. I am considering balanced power and therefore have been researching Equi-Tech, BPT (which unfortunately I believe is now out of business) and Furman. I have pretty much settled on the Furman P-2400 it, due to the reputation of Furman in the industry and price. I would like to get feedback from anyone who has one of these units. I would also like to hear from anyone using balanced power and your impressions. In addition, I am wondering about plugging an amp into this unit as opposed to direct to the wall. I am running a Plinius SA-103 which is solid state in class A/B for casual listening and class A for serious listening. I bring this topic up because my search turned up a lot of older posts but not much recent. Thank you.
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- 25 posts total
- 25 posts total