2. amps-preamps
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Good Inexpensive Multi Plug

Seeking some power advice...

Ive recently been adding some power options to my set up. Moved from a cheapo 12 outlet multi plug with filtering/surge protection to a Tripp Lite Isobar 6, and found some definite sonic improvement. Experimented by removing everything other than amp, dac and source...marginally better still. Then moved to plugging my amp directly into the wall. No contest. Taking away the current clamp really opened everything up. Sonic improvement was so good that trusting the amp’s own power supply filtration far exceeds the current compromise. But I don’t trust leaving it plugged straight in..lightning, surges, spikes etc.

Question is, what multi’s our there with a power switch do not (Significantly) clamp current? Or do I just keep doing squats until I save enough shekels for a power supply (or house panel protection) that costs more than my amp?

Thanks ahead of time 🙏🏼

System:

Creek Evolution 50A
AlloDigione Player/Transport
Airist Audio R2R dac
Harmon Kardon CD player/transport
Totem Arro speakers
Wirewolrd power cable (amp)


riccitone
erik_squires
16,273 posts
 
OP:

The best for sound quality and surge protection are the ZeroSurge/Brickwall units.  They also lack in features.

I've never had a Furman degrade sound quality, but I have noticed sound was harsher without it.

Best,

Erik
thecarpathian's avatar
thecarpathian
4,717 posts
 
You can purchase a whole house surge protector for around $100.
turnbowm
353 posts
 
Some who own big power-hungry amps have complained about reduced dynamics and bass impact when the amp is powered through surge protectors/filters but that should not be a problem with the Creek Evolution 50A Integrated Amp which is rated at 55wpc @  8ohms & 85wpc @ 4ohms.


I also have a small Integrated Amp (Bryston B60R) and it as well as all source components and a Rel T/5i sub are plugged into a Zero Surge 8R15W Series-Mode Suppressor. If anything, the sound quality of the system is better. Having a common system ground is always a good thing.

The only piece of equipment that ever failed on me is one that was unprotected. The Zero Surge unit provides protection and peace of mind..
riccitone OP
229 posts
 
@turnbowm I’ve looked at the Zero Surge products, and you’ve been the second person here to recommend them. Surge suppression is not really my concern, just the effect that cheaper filters can have on a system. Again, straight in the wall, better than any other option I’ve tried as of late. But am really considering Zero Surge, or Brickwall. Still wondering what a quality block like the Furman could still do...either way, equipment failure is a legit concern, as you’ve verified! I think it best to have something well made in place. Thank you 🙏🏼

turnbowm
353 posts
 
riccitone,

I have used Furman products and have found them to be good quality. Their PST-8 uses Series Multi-stage Protection (SMP) and Linear Filter Technology (Lift). However, they make NO mention of being able to withstand repeated 6,000V/3,000A "hits" without degradation/damage, as specified by Zero Surge and Brickwall.

If you are in a spendy mood, the Audioquest Niagra 1200 ($995) offers good Series-Mode protection in an audiophile-grade package.
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