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
jchiappinelli's avatar
jchiappinelli
122 posts
 
I have a pair of Furmann SS-6B surge protectors that cost me about $60. I don't want or need conditioning, but I do want to protect my equipment from surges, spikes, and voltage dropouts. The SS-6B offers a slight degree of RFI and EMI filtering but, according to Furmann,  not enough to be considered a "conditioner". This is fine for me since I only am looking for protection and dont want to add components that alter the sound. They do make a fine line of conditioners that are much more expensive if that's what you want.

J.Chip
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
@dwmaggie  I own a Brickwall 8 outlet, audio version. Probably 15A.
Most likely your 20A makes a difference.

erik_squires
16,900 posts
 
I would be really curious to know what you hear.

Personally, in apartment living, I always prefer and notice when the Furman isn't in the chain.
au_lait
372 posts
 
I have a fancy 8-input line filter plugged into a 20amp dedicated circuit but it doesn't have surge/spike protection. I'm about to add the whole house surge protector this weekend... wondering if I need any further protection at the outlet?
More to discover