2. misc-audio
  3. 170057-13272

Yet Another Post About Power Conditioners!

OK, OK, so I know there are eleventy billion posts about what power conditioners are better than others. I've read them all...yes, all eleventy billion! But, I am still wondering which one I should chose.

Here's the backdrop: I have four dedicated, 20-amp outlets. There's a bunch of noise on them. So bad I can hear a local hip hop station clearly playing through my Greenwave Dirty Noise Filter w/speaker. I use an assortment of very high-end, and expensive power cables,. I use very expensive, high-end outlets. My system consists of a Mobile Fidelity Ultradeck, a PS Audio GCHP phone stage, an AudioLab 6000CDT transport, a Burson Audio 3x Reference headphone amp, and Focal Clear headphones. Everything is connected with really good interconnects, most of which are balanced. Having downsized from a much larger, much more power system, these nuggets suit my current needs just fine.

Still that AC noise. Given the size of my system, it's silly to spend mega-bucks on a regenerator, or the expensive balanced isolation transformer PCs. Based on my research, I've narrowed my choices to these in the $1500 and under price range:

Furman Elite 15 or 20 PFi (used)
AudioQuest Niagara 1200
PS Audio Dectect
Core Power Equi=Core 1000 or 1800 (no return policy, ugh)
Shunyata Hydra 8 (used)
Decware ZLC (10-12 month wait, ugh)
NuPrime Pure AC-4
Toroid BTE500E or 1000E Balanced Transformer
Tripplite ISO500 or 500HG Isolation Transformer
Torus TOT Mini Balanced Transformer

Yes, that's an extensive list, but my search reveals these are the top choices by many folks, as well as a few, little-known contenders.

If you have actual experience with any of these--and have compared them to other PCs, your opinion or recommendations would be appreciated greatly. You're welcome to suggest others, too, if you've done hands-on comparisons.


output555
bemused
122 posts
 
@output555 :
It is not anything mystical, black magic, etc. Nor is it irrational.
Simple, albeit theoretical, valid ideas presenting a new approach to audio systems.
Take a few minutes to read and absorb the material.
Look at the simple animation video and then think about audio.
Then think about the terms Fourier, harmonic series, resonance.
I acknowledge that ADD-Powr might not be what you are looking for.
It is not a power conditioner per se - it does not address AC noise or e-m interference. It is not a filter nor an isolation transformer.

ADD-Powr only addresses the lack of harmonic content in the AC generation and delivery from the power breaker to your audio system.
From what I read at the web site, it is pretty powerful and works very, very well. It has been used by mastering studios and even in live concert venues to great success.

What makes them special is that it completely raises the level of sonic performance in my audio system and thereby raises my enjoyment by 100%.
I have compared them to the PS Audio P-3. It does lower the AC noise floor for quieter listening, But lacks any of the positives of my Sorcer and Wizard.
Together, installed in parallel from the 110 vac, is quite a good thing!

output555 OP
128 posts
 
To j-wall: Yeah, Shunyata seems to get universal love. I've decided the Hydra is older tech, going back 20 years, so I'm looking for something newer used.

I like PS Audio and Paul, a lot. There seem to fans of their regenerators and detractors. The Power Plant Premier seems abundant on the used market.
output555 OP
128 posts
 
To bemused: I did look at their products and did some research on the tech. The science may be good, and the results enjoyable, but if it doesn't address EMI and RFI, I'm not going to be satisfied.
bemused
122 posts
 
Sure, I get it. 
notubesforyou
8 posts
 
Hi Output555

This response is been prompted as a result of Outputt555 comments on  Shunyata and “Snake Oil!”

I am not going to presume to tell you what product(s) are best or best value as there are numerous solutions each with their own sales pitch’s and engineering prowess!
However, of all of the major power conditioner providers and ancillary products available, Shunyata is the one company that always leads with science, clear thoughtful engineering and numerous patents. Shunyata is led by Caelin Gabriel and he has revolutionized the power conditioning, cabling etc.world with his products such that they have become the go to standard for many surgical applications as well as recording industry usage, playback  etc. 

I spent many months following Shunyata and the other leading providers, including communications with Shunyatas leaders, before going with a system wide purchase of multiple Shunyata products including their then current power conditioner. 5 years later I couldn’t be happier with my decision and the $$ and musically value I have attained.

Cheers

Jerry B 

PS……Give Grant or Richard call at Shunyata. They are both very will informed and will not give you any sales BS.
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