using a transformer to separate your gear power

Artistic audio: Can you be more specific about the dangers of balance power supplies? I used one for several years and was very happy with the sonic improvements. The transformer was rated at 6.5 kAV, so it was up to the task. Is the problem with the balanced poles going into the equipment--is the equipment not designed to handle power like this. As I said, my sonic results were fantastic, and I didn't have any of the current restrictions that I found (particularly for my amplifiers) with all other power conditioners I tried. I have not tried Ensemble. Perhaps you have more information on their unit--are you a dealer for them by chance?

In responce to Rives Audio about ballanced power devices, you may want to contact Equi-Tech directly to find out why ballanced power conditioners are at risk to the consumer. I have heard that they will be banned soon due to electrical shock hazzards. personally I have compared the Equi-Tech units to the Ensemble & Richard Gray and found much better results with the latter. to answer your question, Yes I import the Ensemble line from Switzerland. you can find out more information at: http://aaudio.com/ensemble.html

I'm glad to see interest in this topic. Have any of you sourced balanced transformers? I like good sound but don't like the high $ to get it. I have heard the Richard Grey unit and that sound is what I am after.

Truthrider: They are expensive. The one I used was an engineering unit for a medical device that was no longer needed, so I got it for free. Finding 6.5 kAV units are not easy and they are expensive--as are the Equitech units. I did also contact (by e-mail) Equitech and let them know that it has been reported here that their devices may be a serious safety hazard and are likley to be banned in the US. I am hoping they will respond, as I have spoken to the engineers there before and they have boasted about their UL listing. It makes these claims of safety hazard and likely banned in the US hard to believe, but we will see what they have to say about it.

We have used a isolation transformer for years. We use a standard line no current limiting conditioner for amps, pre. Isolation transformers for all digital. My HDTV for that matter. The differences with and without isolation transformers is staggering. We actually plug our isolation devices into our line conditioner for even greater improvement. The tonal qualities, soundstage, blacker blacks etc. is all improved using these devices. We do not use the balanced type so I'm not sure as to the safety issues mentioned above.