Sub $1k Power Conditioners? Any Assistance Appreciated...


Hey guys,

I’m not new to the hobby but am getting back in after a decade or so hiatus. Two channel guy looking for a sub $1k power conditioner for my system. Have used multiple PS products in the past and loved them but their offerings today are too rich for my blood at the moment.

I’m seeing a lot of positive reviews on the AQ Niagara line and the 1200 falls into my fiduciary wheelhouse. It seems to me there’s much more movement these days towards plugging the amp directly into the wall vs any sort of power conditioner except the top of the line units, presumably to avoid limiting current. I’m using, at the moment, a Krell S-300i integrated and would prefer the peace of mind of surge protection.

I’ve always liked the component style aesthetic but, of course, performance and value first. Any recommendations aside from the Niagara or is that where I should be looking? I’m not at all adverse to buying used.

Thanks!
cjlundberg
Maybe I'm using the wrong term.  I'm looking for something that offers surge protection and, presumably, cleans up the signal.  I'd heard good things about the AQ Niagara 1200.  
When you make your decision, use the system with the conditioner for a while, then listen again without it and decide if its better or different.
You could consider the APC H15. It has some transformer-based isolation, voltage regulation, and surge protection. And is relatively inexpensive. There is also a battery-backup version at a slightly higher price point in case that would be useful.
@erik_squires 

Looking at your Frugal dual zone approach, I see 2 power strips plugged into 1 duplex power outlet. You say that makes a  clean zone and a dirty zone. I thought the 2 zones meant 2 different circuits. But you have both of them on one circuit. Is this really 2 zones? Are 2 different circuits better? Can you explain in layman's terms? Thanks