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Which is the best high end passive power filter?

Hi members, I am currently seriously researching the best passive power 8 point filters & would like to know firstly if there is a passive filter which unquestionably improves the sound of high end audio systems without strangling dynamics, or imparting a sonic "signature" of it's own? And secondly, as I live in Australia; is either available in Aust-spec, or is sold by a company which is likely to offer the board in that spec?

An obvious front runner at the moment is Shunyata's new Hydra 8v2 which offer the Hydra in Australa. I have heard the new model 8v2 is slightly better than the previous Vray which is a big wrap.

I should say I am sceptical about power filters. An audiophile friend of mine who happens to have owned a hifi store in Australia for more than 25 years said he never heard a power filter (in Australia) which didn't have a negative impact on the sound, including some very high gear including (from memory) a Burmester active filter, so I would need to be convinced to take the plunge.

So is the new Hydra 8v2 the best option, or maybe even a stretch to save for the new Vray v2?

(Thanks in advance for your ideas)
melbguy1
fafafion
190 posts
 
Melbguy1,

The Sound applications provide that little bit extra quietness,and that little extra holographic imaging,at least in my system....there is a caveat though,you have to pay a lot more to get that little extra;law of diminishing return in full glory here....

Like I mentioned earlier,write to Alon Krafton,he really is very knowledgeable.The main advantage of Powerwing is that it is customize to what you want,not unlike a bespoke suit;so it may 'fit' your system better....anyway if you haven't tried his Cable cooker[Audiodharma},i suggest you get that first.Everybody should have access to one IMO

hotbird
61 posts
 
Forget the Sound Application (which seems to be based on dated technology and still looks the same year after year). According to Norm (his moniker is Tbg in audiogon), the new king of plc's is the Tesla PowerCell. Norm has used Sound Application, Walker Velocitor, Acoustic Revive, Isoclean...et all, so his opinions are based on experience rather than hearsay. So save your bucks and try the much less expensive Powercell.

the Synergistic Research Tesla PowerCell

And if you want to rid of more noise, try the Troy Tripoint as reviewed below

Experiences with Tripoint Audio Apollo

Tripoint Troy: Can one live without a kidney?

I just hope the kidney can have a cheaper edition ;-)
fafafion
190 posts
 
I think the argument that a new technology is definitely better Is not true ;certainly not for hi-fi ,if not all of us will have digital amps and computer based players....how old is tube amp technology and Vinyl playback system anyway?

I can't form an opinion on the Tesla Power cell ,haven't had the chance to audition it yet,but even some people prefers the shunyata 's to Sound applications.....and I do not blame them.Like I say before some system certainly could sound better with a bit of flavouring.....

As for ME,I want my PLCs not to impart ANY flavor at all,so that the rest of the system could really shine true...in this regards,having tried MANY ,I have yet found something that could better the SA .Do I care if the technology is old?No,not at all....
hotbird
61 posts
 
For start, I think I can agree with you is that Shunyata is highly colored, and it's heyday as a leader in power conditioning products are quite over in some countries. As for Sound Application, check out what Tbg(Norm) has to say about it.

Sound Application line conditioner experience?

Reminds me of the never-ending upgrades of Power Enhancers by another brand. The next version is always better... ;-)
At least that brand doesn't really bite your wallet
melbguy1 OP
1,438 posts
 
Fafafion, I agree with your view that newest is not always best, and I must say Alan's products look impressive and he seems like a very knowledgable & decent guy. Thanks to everyone for your responses!
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