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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).
lowrider57
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57 OP
5,418 posts
 
@bugredmachine.
It's a Chord QuteHD (same design as your DAC). And I got it for an amazing price, so I'm willing to pair a good Linear PSU with it.
Yes, the noise coming from the stock switching wall-wart is loud.

But my issue is two-fold; it's not only the Chord DAC, my ARC CDP sends interference/noise down into the mains.
Maybe it's noticeable because the CDP's output and my amp have very high gain.
lak's avatar
lak
4,753 posts
 
Lowrider57,
No, all your equipment doesn't need to have a CPT power cord.
I have not done a good job of updating my two systems on Audiogon, sorry about that, I'll have to soon. Anyway, in my second system I have a CT GE high current power cord on my integrated amp and a CPT 300 power cord feeding a power strip that my transport, Dac, and tuner is plugged into. Was a very good improvement.
ptss
1,964 posts
 
Have not reviewed all posts however my experience with Tripplite Isobar Ultra 8 is that it is not suitable for hi-end use due to power constriction and noise. Dampens dynamics. I use three to isolate other digital, non hi-fi items, from the mains power and provide surge protection. 
I have been extremely pleased my Equitech 2Q and Sound Application units. 
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57 OP
5,418 posts
 
@ptss,
since there's no budget to change my power conditioning or convert to balanced power, have you ever used an isolation xfmr on upstream components?

@lak,
Thanks for setting me straight. So you are benefiting by using a CPT PC into a power strip. In my situation, if only the digital was in the CPT/power strip chain, IYO, would that isolate these devices? IOW, no noise bleeding back into the mains?
 My preamp would need to be on a separate line.

(And the Tripp-lite Isobar was a major disappointment. Not at all as advertised).
ptss
1,964 posts
 
Re the isolation transformer; yes I have used 3 of them. on a preamp, separate cd player and separate turntable. This was before I got my Equitech and Sound Application units. Very effective. I highly recommend provided you use top quality and substantially overspec'd
regarding current draw.
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