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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.  
128x128falconquest
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falconquest OP
1,108 posts
 
Coli - I find your comments interesting. You say Equi=tech is not "audiophile" not sure what you meant by that comment and would appreciate a clarification. The Furman weighs 90 lbs. and the Equi=tech 2RQ weighs 72 lbs. The Furman is priced at $2400.00 while the 2RQ is at $4300.00. This is why I'm leaning toward the Furman. I don't see what more I am getting for $1900 dollars in the Equi=tech.
lp2cd
101 posts
 
A quick note. I personally doubt that, under ordinary conditions, one would be able to perceive any significant difference between the Furhman P-2400 IT and the comparable Equi=Tech Model 2RQ. Undoubtedly the Furhman is both less expensive and more available. Equi=Tech is almost exclusively pro gear, and Martin claims to be the guy that introduced the concept of using balanced AC in critical applications years ago, but at this point that might not make enough difference to be concerned with.

A couple of other notes: When searching for dealers on the Furman site, one might be better off using the "Home Theater" option. The dealers one finds might be a little more friendly and the gear will be the same. Also, do note that the plug on both of them (I believe) is a NEMA 5-20 and they are designed for 20 amp circuits. Make sure your receptacle can accept it.

Lastly, Equi=Tech claims the current ratings of their transformers is very conservative. I believe it. If your system will run well on one 15 amp circuit, and most will, a 15 amp rated Equi-Tech transformer will not throttle the current flow AFAICT. Likewise for their 20 amp equipment.
coli
291 posts
 
If you are going for value, used Equitech 2RQ goes for less than $1000. Transformers last forever. Checkout gearslutz classified section.

But really, the best value is to go without and go with 240V equiptments. Even cheap stuff sounds like a million buck once you go 240V for everything.

(Equitech is used in recording studios/production facilities, they basically are nothing more than a very highly specced transformer.)
ptss
1,964 posts
 
Coli. Where can you find a 2RQ for under $1000? I want one. Thanks
falconquest's avatar
falconquest OP
1,108 posts
 
I agree ptss, I want one too!
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