2. misc-audio
  3. 1301225436

Isolation Transformer or Power Regenerator

How are they different? Is one better than the other?

Let’s first just I assume that I have bad power. I have a Topaz 1.8 (.9 balanced) that I put my McCormack DNA-1 Deluxe (SMcAudio silver upgrade) on recently and the difference in sound was night and day. Was expecting subtle changes but not dramatic changes. The amp right out of the wall did not sound very good at all, which just did not make sense…it’s a good amp. Putting the iso in line explained why. So, my feeling is I need to get fresh power to my entire system. The Topaz in balanced form may have just enough headroom to squeek by (according to Steve McCormack) with just the amp on it. More would be better.

So, should I get a higher power iso (Topaz, Oneac) for the amp and using the existing one iso on the other gear? If so, does it matter if it is a IE-core or Torroid? Some say EIs let less noise through, some say a good Torriod will equal EI in terms of noise reduction and create less noise (EMI) than an IE. Any final verdicts on this?

Or would it make more sense to get a (Exact Power, PS Audio Power Plant Premier) power regenerator and put the whole system on it. Would any of these have enough headroom to cover my whole system?

I already have a dedicated 20A line to this system. Looking for bang-for-buck solution.

My System:

TADAC Tube Pre/DAC = 25W According to Paul at TAD)
Apple TV = 20W (according to Apple)
DIP (Original) = 10W (according to back panel)
Tivo HD = 40W (according to tivocommunity)
Video Switcher = (don't know but could it be much?)
TV = 240W (according to manual)
McCormack DNA-1 Deluxe = 400 (according to SmCAudio)
Paradigm PS1000 powered (250W/750W peak) Subwoofer = I can’t find this, any ideas? Let’s say 375

TOTAL = 1110W
cpalcott
mrderrick
292 posts
 
I use a PS Audio P300 (re generator) on a dedicated branch circuit for my sources and pre.
My Amps (600 watts total constant) are connected to a Cinepro 20 Balanced (transformer) supply on a dedicated branch circuit. (2.5 Kw rated)
My Sub225's are connected to a dedicated branch circuit with parallel RFI/EMI filters connected to it. (straight power)
Regeneration for source and pre.
Balanced transformer for main amps.
Straight power for high load subs.
Dedicated branch circuits off of the same line for each.
You do not want to introduce any type of "conditioning" that might restrict current delivery to the amp loads that can constrict dynamics.
Post removed 
mikelavigne
2,199 posts
 
stop fooling around with 'stand-alone' power iso or re-gen systems. instead; do both at a much more effective level (both in performance and cost) with a 'whole system' isolation transformer.

get an Equi=tech Wall Panel System and enjoy the lowest possible noise floor and the ultimate in dynamics. get that 'late night' performance all the time. be done with the power conditioner merry-go-round.

i have the 10KVa (10WQ) version. it weighs 380 pounds and is mounted on (in) a wall in the hallway outside my dedicated room. it replaced the dedicated electrical panel for my system. i run 13 circuits off the Equi-tech.

it makes all other power conditioners/isolation transformers look like toys.

depending on the model, including installation by a commercial electrician it will run you $10k to $15k. but start adding up all those stand alone boxes and then upgrading to the latest and greatest 'power conditioners' every few years and the Equi-tech likely will save you money. that's not even considering that every piece of gear you have will get an upgrade with better power.

i have friends who actually saved money installing an Equi-tech by selling their 'collection' of expensive power conditioners.

the Equi-tech also takes protection to a whole new level.
More to discover