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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
jabar102
26 posts
 
Just got the new Audioquest Niagara 1200 with a couple of high current outlets for amps. Not enough time with it to be 100% sure, but I would say it was an improvement SQ wise, and a piece of mind with the protection.  
p05129
526 posts
 
I have a whole house surge protection unit at the meter which is rented from the local utility for $6 a month. It protects everything inside the house and comes with a protection plan that will fix or replace anything damaged from any surge. I have friends that have gone thru a few oven electronics and refrigerators due to surges. My amp sounds best plugged directly into a dedicated 20amp circuit compared to a decent external surge suppressor 
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
+1 @p05129. That's an ideal setup.

I must add my 2 cents regarding the Brickwall. I own one and although it claims to be non-current limiting, it reduces the dynamics and soundstaging on my amps. It's great for source components.

turnbowm
353 posts
 
I recently had an Integrated Amp fail and it was the only equipment not running through a surge suppressor. Didn't feel comfortable leaving it unprotected so I purchased a Zero Surge 8R15W protector/filter and everything, including a small sub, is now plugged into it.

I was also concerned about sound degradation caused by running the Int. Amp through the surge protector but the SQ has actually improved. This improvement may be the result of having a central ground and common power feed point for all the equipment in my 2-channel system. Those with large power-hungry amps, however,  may have different results.   
dtximages
365 posts
 
Definitely check out PS Audio's P5 or a used P10.  Many people claim these are the best tweak they've made to their system.  I can't think of a better system than to totally regenerate high quality power.  Many claim that conditioners "bleach" the sound.  Might be "cleaner" but also more meh.. 

I've never heard, but from what I gather from many others opinions (dangerous i know), it SHOULD be a big improvement over my Furman Elite 15 power conditioner.

I'm thinking about picking one up myself when things calm down.  


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