2. misc-audio
  3. 155475-132651

Surge protector vs wall debate for amps

Hi, I feel like I've sifted through endless threads from over the years and the advice still seems divided... I have a Pass Labs x250.8 and an Anthem STR Preamp. I currently have both plugged into the same Furman conditioner and have noticed a difference in sound compared to plugging it into a regenerator or directly into the wall -- which makes sense.
That said I really don't feel comfortable plugging thousands of dollars directly into the wall in the rare event of a lightning strike or any other EMI. I rent my apartment so I can't make modifications to the wiring of the unit.
So that said I want to get a surge protector exclusively for my amp that won't throttle power, sound stage, or anything. Given my amp, are there any recommendations for something like this that won't break the bank and is still quality?
Thank you!
jwh2
mike_in_nc
1,161 posts
 
I have a Bryston 4B3, about the same power demand as your Pass Labs amplifier. The one I found that works for me, with no deleterious effects other than cost and weight, is the Torus RM-20.
masi61
97 posts
 
@mike_in_nc …. you beat me to it. I have a Bryston 4Bsst2 with the Bryston BIT-15 and the combination seems to work well. As far as I know Torus manufactures power conditioners for Bryston. Bryton just individualizes the product by using their own face plate. 

@jwh2 - I'm not sure what your definition of affordable is, but the BIT-15 set me back about $2100. Definitely an investment but for me it is worth it since I also have quite a few power outages in the summer thunderstorm season. 
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
If you can find a power conditioner that doesn't restrict current flow, then go for it. I've found the purest sound from a power amp is running it thru the wall receptacle, provided you have a dedicated line. That's why I suggested a power strip without filtering.

The conditioners that do not limit current or colour the sound are often very pricey.

mike_in_nc
1,161 posts
 
Torus claims that their units not only don't limit current, they provide a short-term reserve due to energy storage in the large toroidal transformer. The RM-20 weighs considerably more than the Bryston 4B3 it's feeding. But as @masi61 said, they are not cheap. Sometimes Torus has a demo unit available.
dwmaggie
222 posts
 
Brick Wall, I use their 20amp 2 outlet for large current amps and the 15amp 8 outlet for electronics.  Simple and not that expensive, 289 for the 8 outlet.
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