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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
sutts
700 posts
 
does the Equi=Tech meet Canadian code standards as well?
cvl
2 posts
 
Well, if bang-for- your-buck is where your headed, then you should consider,and contact Consolidated Power Co. in Troy, Mi. as they manufacture many of the lines that are advertized as audio grade products, and although Equitech is considered and oriented as an audiophile, studio product, their pricing is also reflective of this, and they seem short on specs to back up their product. Most of these companies have excellent product,but have different ways of achieving their end result. Never the less, a full blown dedicated power supply should always be ones STARTING point, to gain the most from ones system.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Mike lavigne`s solution although excellent is at the extreme in terms of scale and cost. Many music lovers will find this appraoch unaffordable,it may make smaller units "look" like toys but they`ll work well for many at a reasonable cost. I use a BPT model BP 3.5 Signature Plus with a 2KW rated balabced transformer with 10 outlets. My entire system is plugged in and the overall sonic performance is fanstastic in every way. This unit retails for about 3500.00 and is worth it. The use of balanced AC power is a wonderful way to go.
Post removed 
cpalcott OP
14 posts
 
Wow, more confused than ever. The Power Plant Premiere I was looking at is actually a newer unit that is 1500 watts and is reportedly much more efficient, quiet and cooler than the older units (300, 600, 1000, 1200). Is this still not enough for my system?

I'd be fine going the isolation transformer route. But does regeneration achieve anything that isolation does not?
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