Audiolabyrinth,
Sure, no problem.
Jim
Does an isolation transformer improve a power cable?
In a post dated 12/14, I described how I built my DIY AC power cables. In evaluating these new cables over the first 100 hours, I am hearing parts in music I did not know where there--instruments are standing out in sharp relief with a more robust dynamic and improved clarity. All of this is coming through via Furutech's Ohno Continuous Cast copper, a brand I am not here to promote--rather, it is the one I chose to obtain a legitimate OCC material. These cables are feeding two ARC Reference 210's, modifed to 250's. But, what appears to make as important a contribution is what is feeding the AC cables their current--a large 240V/120V isolation transformer weighing 120 pounds and supplying 4000 watts of work to all of my devices via six outlets on the back. What I am understanding is that this thing provides a more ideal supply of current that is independent of the rest of the house and its appliances and devices. With all that is said about power cables and what they can and cannot do, depending on one's beliefs about alternating current, i.e., what is upstream, how could it matter, what about the rest of the grid, the last six feet is important, etc, I suspect that, in using a true induction transformer in this manner, the last six feet is the only six feet in my power supply, and this is why these OCC cables sound so stunningly good. Is this the purest AC energy pathway possible?
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I use the Equi=tech 10WQ wall panel system which includes a 10kva isolation transformer. when I installed this 400 pound panel 4 years ago I did have to re-think the power cords in my system. previously I had Jena Labs Fundamental One power cords with in-line power conditioners. however; once I cleaned up the noise in my power grid with the Equi=tech isolation transformer the Jena Labs actually added noise. so I switched to a more simple approach in a power cord, the Absolute Fidelity power cords for most of my gear. I have 9 of those. they are very simple and quiet. I do use 2 Evolution Acoustics TRPC (triple run power cords) on my 2 dart mono block amplifiers. some power cords do filter noise, and some do not. so no, an isolation transformer does not improve a power cord, but it does change the context it is used in. so you must investigate the performance equation for the specific power cord in the new context. I suppose it is possible that the isolation transformer might improve the total picture. but unless you try some alternatives you won't know if the power cord you have always used is holding you back. you gotta listen. |
Mike, the Equ=tech 10wq system looks like a superb product--I am sure it is giving you a very quiet power supply that allows all the inner details to come through. Jea, the unit I am using must be a grounded power system, as it has six grounded receptacles on the back. Looking at these transformers form RGPC and Torus/Bryston, they are very domesticated, made for the living room. There isn't anything easier--just plug it into the wall and plug your gear into it. What I am getting at is that, if this is a truly isolating transformer, then there is nothing upstream of it--forget about the house and all the big appliances, all the switching noise, the voltage sags, the buzzing dimmer switches, waiting until midnight for the best sound, etc. All the power is right there with your gear. Beyond that, there are only your own power cords--your own AC lines. Now, use the best copper available, and you have this nailed. I cannot think of a more pure atomic structure than OCC copper. You are down to an element here. It is free of other metal impurities and oxygen. It has no grain boundaries that cause distortions; the electromotive force alternates back and forth along shared electrons quietly. Your gear operates in an ideal power environment. The music signal is modulated onto this pure power source, so this is what you want from your power. I don't have any EE knowledge beyond what I can read and understand, but sometimes this allows a basic idea to come through as perhaps a profound revelation. I am trying to tell you that two AC power cords are acting like a front-end upgrade here--if I only had words.......In the spirit of reporting great things in this community, I just want to tell all of you, and if just one person also tries this combination, then something has been accomplished. Best wishes for health and a Happy New Year to all. |
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