2. misc-audio
  3. 177377-11588

Is an isolation transformer better than a power conditioner?

I was never thrilled with my Shunyata Triton/Typhon pc.

It improves the SQ but not dramatically. And it is two large chassis that take up a lot of real estate. And not particularly attractive. And we’re $18K new! One would expect transformative performance.

Just went to great lengths and expense to run a dedicated AC line. $4.5K of special Oyaide cable, duplexes and cover plates. And $1.2K electrician.

It was also highly recommended that I also go with an isolation transformer. Went from Torus to Bryston to Equitech. Focusing on the balanced power Equitech.

Getting one, I am curious to know if it will “blow away” my T/T as I have been told.

And with the dedicated AC, maybe not plugging my amps into the new duplexes but the Et would be better. Or plugging in the Et to the T/T and the T/T into the wall.

But I sure would like to get rid of the Shunyatas.

mglik
mahler123
3,412 posts
 

I’ve never used a Power Conditioner.  Would any perceived improvement be affected by where one lives?  I currently live in Chicago but am contemplating retirement and moving to a sparsely populated rural area.

ghdprentice
7,294 posts
 

@mahler123 

 

It is definitely dependent on where you live. That said, for the vast majority it provides a very meaningful improvement in sound quality. Even more likely to produce a really meaningful improvement are direct lines.

 

OP,

Congratulations on your progress on your power. I look forward to hearing your system sometime… if the pandemic calms or goes away.

mglik OP
913 posts
 

The change in SQ with the Shunyata Triton/Typhon PC is truly tremendous.

Every LP is  greatly improved but the changes are most notable on classical.

The instruments are separated with air around each. There is layering with 3D presentation. The emotion is more present than ever producing a gripping sound.

Taking the Shunyatas out the soundstage collapses and all of these factors go away. I am still wanting to get  PS Audio P12 but may wind up using it together with the T/T.

 

aberyclark
1,364 posts
 

I have Torus TOT Max in my system. I'm afraid to try plugging my integrated Luxman into the wall directly because it may sound better, thus there will be no surge protection. 

ghdprentice
7,294 posts
 

@aberyclark 

A very valid concern. I think the equation changes over one’s lifetime as you realize you only live once and for a finite time. What is the real probability of having your equipment fried? I lived in Tucson Arizona for 25 years… I was in charge of a data center that went down because of thunderstorms every summer… yet have never lost a single piece of audio equipment. 
 

Live.

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