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Do I need a power conditioner?

I’m in the process of dropping a dedicated 20 amp circuit or 2 into the music room.
So if I have a dedicated circuit for the amp, and a dedicated circuit for everything else,
is a conditioner useful?
I have several fairly decent systems going that I tweek and retweek.
Just got around to upgrading cables. Avoided conditioners because, in general, they dampen the presentation.
Was using a PS Audio PPP for low power components. But fell for the Shunyata spiel.
Plugged in a Hydra 4 with a Python Helix and was very happy with how it cleaned up the Zu Druids.
Seems high sensitivity speakers maybe reveal the grunge also.
Moved it to my system with the Martin Logans and the presentation seemed a bit lean and just a bit lifeless, using just copperhead cable to Hydra. (using all Pangea to get from the Hydra to other components.)
Then I put a Black Mamba from Classe amp straight to the wall and Wow! Single most significant tweek ever for me.
So I’m thinking, maybe I don’t need the Denali I ordered if I just use a couple dedicated circuits and some Shunyata power cords everywhere.
Opinions?
Thanks. :)
leotis
eniac26
97 posts
 
I use 2 power conditioners with great results. One being a Shunyata Denali 6000T for my front end gear (Preamp & DAC) and a Torus Power RM20 for my monoblock Pass Labs XA60.8's.

In terms of the Shunyata, it was an eye opening experience once it was introduced into the chain. I have a single 20a circuit feeding it with an Alpha HC power cord.

In terms of the Torus, it has plenty  of reserve power to feed the Amps without restrictions  and they sound  better with it in the chain. Its fed by another 20a circuit.

If your power requirements are low its better to feed the whole system from a single 20a circuit using a single power conditioner of adequate headroom.

leotis OP
183 posts
 
I'm waiting on a Denali 6000S (looks exactly the same as the 6000T internally) and an Alpha HC. Was running everything (ModWright Oppo 105/ Classe SSP800/ Classe CA5200/ JL Audio Fathom F110 X 2/ Martin Logan Montis + Stage and TV) off one 15 amp circuit. Seemed to work fine. Just added two 20 amp circuits so tripled the supply. Plan is components off  one 20 amp circuit. Speakers off 15 amp circuit and amp off other 20 amp circuit. Question is if I can run the amp through the Denali's high output section plus components on remaining sections. I believe Shunyata says yes. Seems that is what you are recommending. Amp is rated 12 amps but I doubt I use more than a fraction of that. Any experience running an amp off a Denali?
eniac26
97 posts
 
@leotis

I haven't yet tried to run my Amps off of the Denali but the only reason for this is due to the location of my gear. Front End gear is on the other side of the room from where the Amps & Speakers are.

I wouldn't hesitate to run off the Denali if I could but doing so would involve a Front End equipment change/consolidation effort for me. I'm not sure if I will ever find the motivation to do that :)

Given what the Denali did for my system when I installed it I would be very surprised if it turned out to be a step backwards in SQ given the new 20A circuit you would be feeding it with and based on what you mention about your power needs.
leotis OP
183 posts
 
Thanks for all the interesting responses. Just what I was hoping for.
Several interesting suggestions for further research (was unfamiliar with "balanced power"), and several first hand anecdotes. Guess we'll see when the unit arrives. Doubt I will need to use MD's liberal return policy. :)
kolledog
17 posts
 
No, don't waste yr money on a conditioner if you have dedicated circuits. Buy more music! Save up for better speakers!

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