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Least Expensive Power Conditioner/Surge Protector That Won't Worsen Sound

I have an old Shunyata Hydra 6 that I'm sending off to Shunyata to repair. In the meantime, I'm curious - What's the least expensive power conditioner/surge protector that won't worsen the sound? 

 

I've already discovered that plugging my integrated directly into the wall sounds the best. But I have source components. I have liked the Shunyata, but just in case they're not able to get it back to like new shape, what are your thoughts? (I tried numerous PLCs at the time I bought it almost 20 years ago and I thought it, by far, sounded better than any other one I auditioned in my system, and that included the Hydra 8).

 

I see many users who have reported worsening sound when using the Audioquest PQ2 and PQ3.

 

Something like a Panamax PM 5300 or 5400?  Or the Furman Elite 15?

 

And what is the danger of under-voltage?

analogj
rockaway07866's avatar
rockaway07866
5 posts
 

Furman Elite 15PFIs - good units, and you can find these used at good prices at Audiogon, US Audiomart, and HiFi Shark.

lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 

+1 Brick Wall (same design as ZeroSurge). I own the 8 outlet unit for use with source components, noise-floor is greatly lowered. Circuit breaker, RFI/EMI filtering, series-mode, no MOVs 

However, this conditioner/surge protection will limit current to amps. 

ronboco
847 posts
 

I use a Nordost QB8 with surge protection in a dedicated sub panel. 

daledeee1's avatar
daledeee1
570 posts
 

Mr Carpathian,  I beg to differ.  Here in Iowa we have 140mph Derechos.  Took out 70,000 or more trees in Cedar Rapids alone.  South is getting lots of storms this spring.  Good luck and enjoy the music.

There were some good comments from atmosphere(Ralph) about what power conditioners need to do and not do recently.

thecarpathian's avatar
thecarpathian
4,469 posts
 

Ah, a Derecho.

That, is in a whole other league. 

Stay safe.

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