I forgot to add that I would bet several of the expensive ionizers, if stripped of the cosmetics, would turn out to have a heart consisting of one of those $30 devices you can find on eBay or Amazon.
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Industry uses ionizers extensively for electrostatic discharge (EDS) control - here is a very basic description - Technical Guide - STATIC REMOVERS (IONIZERS) (panasonic.biz). There are many compact bench top ionizers available such as AC powered TB-3043.pdf (descoindustries.com) and DC powered 2020-1j-p16p (staticclean.com). The fans in low speed are generally about 40-45dB, there may be quieter ones. These blower units tend to have a pretty good reach as shown in the literature, but the neutralization time with distance as shown in the literature. Ionizers can produce highly toxic ozone, the reputable one will specify an ozone limit such as <0.05ppm. There are lower cost Chinese knock-offs, user beware. |
lewn you are exactly correct. I’ve been in and out of the audio business during my career and have worked for a few big name audio companies. I’ve seen companies do exactly what you are saying. Even to the point of buying a cheap ready made product, changing it slightly, putting it in a fancy case and calling it an “Audio” product and charging 10 times what it originally cost. That’s why after looking at a few things I thought geez, I can make one of these or just buy something ready made cheap. And yes I did see the devices you mentioned. |
Antinn, I haven’t taken the time to look at your references but there are two types of these devices, so far as I can tell. One type works via electrostatic discharge. That’s the type that produces ozone. Humans should not be in the room when they’re operating . The other type is an ion generator which doesn’t create ozone, at least not to an appreciable degree. I believe the devices we’ve been discussing fall into the latter category, save possibly for that plasma lighter. But it would be benign most likely due to its low power, very local effect, and brief period of activation. |
@lewm I saw the Acaia release this last week and it seems awesome. I have a big problem with chaff clinging in my Baratza grinder and will be picking up the Ion Beam. I will definitely be trying it with my turntable to see if there's any benefit. Acaia make great products and I own a few of them and highly recommend them. |
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