Equi=Core 1000


I just bought an Equi=Core 1000 which will be here this Friday. I am currently using an Audioquest Niagara 1200 which I like but don’t truly love. So, I started looking for a new conditioner and found the Equi=Core on the Audiogon website. I read many articles about the 1000 and the 1800 and everyone of them stated how great both conditioners are especially with the new transformer. Many compared the 1000 and 1800 to conditioners costing $3k-$4k. Also, I chatted with Walter a few times before purchasing and he took the time to answer all my many questions. So my question is (even though it’s too late), does anyone use the Equi=Core, and if so, how do you like it?

 

thanks

128x128stevebohnii

@lowrider57 thanks so much for the detailed post. You have me excited to get the 1000 on Friday. I already regret not getting the 1800, but Walter said he takes trade ins so I’m sure we will be able to work something out. I’ve also done a little research on the Deep=Core but I need to do a little more. I’m guessing you have to match the models so they align. Thanks again for your post. 

I own the AQ Niagra 1200, too. I have no issues with it.

I also owned the Equi+Core 1800- a very early version.

It worked well with my equipment. To be honest, I did not detect a significant difference- but, I try not to get too anal about these things. When they make a difference, I hear it, but if it trends to the subtle, I just call a spade a spade.

The Deep Core is a YMMV piece of equipment. If your current is of less than decent, then it could make a difference. -And, yes I owned a pair-both sold.

One reason I moved to AQ is that the Core Power equipment seemed more like a bunch of 'better quality' outlets put in a box with more conventional parts/wires.

The new AQ stuff is really quite amazing (to me, at least). Garth is putting out some very nice cables. The Niagra 1200 is part of that-perhaps it doesn't have all the upgrades that come with going up the line (3000-7000), but it does do the job nicely. 

Bob

I’ve also done a little research on the Deep=Core but I need to do a little more. I’m guessing you have to match the models so they align.

@stevebohnii 

You're welcome. Depending on the size of your system, the 1000 might be all you need.. If you have a high-current amp it may be best to plug directly into the wall

 

1000W is a large transformer and a power cord for high-current components should be used to the receptacle. If you can get Walter's Gold power cord for $99, that would be perfect. I have one and it's excellent quality, it powers my DeepCore.

As far as matching the DeepCore 1800 with your 1000, talk to Walter. Deep=Core is designed to work with different brands and sizes of power conditioners.

@lowrider57 so I’m going to hook up an Atoll IN300 which is 150 watts per channel (total 300), Pontus II (DAC), Hermes (DDC), and a ifi Zen Stream. Walter said I should have enough wattage to connect all of them into the 1000. I have a Maestro duplex in the wall, so I might just plug the Atoll into the wall. I did order the Golden power cord and the upgraded duplexes. I find it very interesting how all audiophiles buy the same equipment and hear differently. For example, @gdnrbob had an older version of the Core and Deep and really couldn’t hear a difference. I hope that’s not the case with the current versions of both.

@gdnrbob thanks for your opinion. I do like the 1200 but feel like I’m losing a lot of detail and punch. I will do an a/b comparison and if I think the 1200 sounds better, I’ll have to decide what to do with the 1000.  

@stevebohnii 

I think you're fine running those components through the 1000. But what looks good on paper doesn't always sound best. So, use your ears and try the amp in and out of the Equi=Core. If you were running a mega amp with a massive toroidal transformer you would hear a negative effect using a power conditioner.

Looking forward to your impressions of the 1000. And allow time for breakin.