2. amps-preamps
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Power conditioner some say yes and some say no.

Depending on who I ask a power transformer conditioner can have a good effect on the sound while others claim they inhibit the dynamics of an amp. I don’t have serious power problems as far as I know but I enjoy my sound most of the time. I currently use a Hydra 6 for my entire system except for my amp where I use a Hydra 2. Would it make sense to invest thousands on a power transformer conditioner or would my Hydras be enough by isolating the components from each other. I was waiting for a Keces IQRP 3600 to try but the dealer I was to get it from died from Covid-19 before arranging my Keces to be shipped. I am out $4000 and am not so fast to drop another $4000 on the Keces. Perhaps in the future if it makes sense. I find that not many use transformer conditioners due to the dynamics limitations of the amp. Any help would be appreciated.
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ja_kub_sz's avatar
ja_kub_sz
273 posts
 
Well it didn't help my speaker hum from my power amp.

So to that I say power conditioner did nothing, but if you have $500 to toss around... Why not?

I'll do a thorough sit down, but I'm looking at it more for my power amp then my intergrated amp.
three_easy_payments's avatar
three_easy_payments
2,097 posts
 
@ja_kub_sz

Well it didn't help my speaker hum from my power amp.

Did you try a balanced isolation transformer?  My personal experience is that these work much better than straight linear conditioning.  Worked very well with my Line Magnetic SET amp.
aj523
373 posts
 
Look it’s easy. Buy one from a place where you can return it. The Cable Company, Music Direct, etc Move on. 
eastendhifi
19 posts
 
 @three_easy_payments
Thanks for the support. I hear most of the users here complaining rightfully so about degradation in dynamics when plugged into a power conditioner. That absolutely does not happen with isolation transformers.
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,859 posts
 
That absolutely does not happen with isolation transformers.
As long as you don't run them past about 50% of their rated capacity.
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