2. digital
  3. 125150-2280

Will an Isolation Transformer Help My Digital?

I am experiencing noise from my digital components into my system. It presents as high frequency interference thru the speakers once the components are warmed up. This interference is being sent back to the mains and can be heard when music is being played or idle.

I’m using an ARC CD3 mk II CDP, Chord DAC, and a NAD CD player. I have a 20 amp dedicated line with Blue Circle power conditioning at the wall.
A Furman power strip for the low-current analogue components is plugged into the PC. Also feeding from the PC is a Tripp-Lite Isobar with isolated filter banks for the digital. The toroidal chokes in this Tripp-Lite power strip are not able to filter the digital noise.
My amp plugs into the wall duplex outlet.

I posted a thread earlier where it was mentioned than an isolation transformer used exclusively for the digital components might resolve the noise/interference problem.
I read in the archives about the use of a Tripp Lite IS250HG Isolation Transformer to isolate the CDP/DAC.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000ET7Q6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_img?_encoding=UTF8&colid=29XG41GAZ363K...

So, I’m asking if this would be a solution, since I don’t plan on running another dedicated line. (too many reasons to list).
128x128lowrider57
whart's avatar
whart
3,064 posts
 
Lak: a question. Is there some kind of transformer in the box of those Core cables? Is the "output" side delivering true balanced power 60/0/60?
I am also a big believer in isolation transformers and have several, from a smallish medical grade one that I use for my tonearm air compressor to the Equi=Tech 10kVa (which is sitting in storage, awaiting a new property to install it). 
bugredmachine's avatar
bugredmachine
456 posts
 

Which Chord?

I had a similar issue when I had the Qute EX in the system. Bought a Bricasti and with the Chord out of the system the noise disappeared. Tried every trick in the book from isolation transformers, to balanced power transformers, to active and passive ac conditioners. Nothing worked until the Bricasti showed up and now it interfaces with my Audio Magic cond very well. YMMV

lak's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
lak
4,684 posts
 
Whart, you ask a great question which I'm not qualified to answer.
I'd love to own the Equi=Tech 10 KVA :-)!
I still own an Equi=Tech Q2.
Check out http://www.corepowertechnologies.com
You could always send an email to Mark at that site or ask that question on the CPT discussion forum here on Audiogon, or phone him. When he sees your question he will answer. It's my understanding that somehow it's balanced power, but that's the limit of my knowledge. LOL!
terry9
2,354 posts
 
Lak, I have a similar setup, and don't understand why it isn't among the first upgrades on the audiophile radar. My isolation transformers are Plitron.

Lowrider, before you spend big bucks, you might want to consider a nice used power supply for the cost of a mid-market power cord. I have bought many a good used piece from Sphere Research in Canada, and never a dud. I would call them and explain the issue, and go with their recommendation. HP power supplies from their glory days, for (Canadian!) pennies on the dollar.
terry9
2,354 posts
 
Another thought, Lowrider - the obvious place for a manufacturer to skimp is on the power supply. But high fidelity begins with pure power, because every bit of garbage, grunge, or harmonic which is generated by a power supply is going to end up amplified in your speakers.

You might find that with a lab grade power supply, your equipment sounds better than much pricier stuff with manufacturer's compromises built in. The old lab grade stuff cost many thousands when new, and was used to put men on the moon.

I start with heroically (i.e. insanely) overbuilt power supplies for all my home-brew electronics, and it pays off.
More to discover