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I need help choosing a power conditioner.

I am interested in adding an inexpensive power line conditioner to a second system that I have in a spare bedroom. Stereo only, no video. Budget is $150.00 used and some recommended contenders are, API Power Pack 2, Adcom Ace 515, one of the various Monsters, 2500 maybe. Degree of system improvement is the only criteria and I would appreciate input from respondants with experience with at lease two units so that I can get a contrast. Please feel free to add other models into the mix. Your knowledge and guidance are greatly appreciated.
128x128viridian
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
Out of the ones listed definitely the Audio Power Pack II. It does the best job in my opinion and has a detachable power cord, so you can tweek that system further with a better cord. They do give you a good fat one with the unit new.

The Monster is OK and will do a decent job. It is well like by many for the cost.

I would avoid the Adcom. A few I heard actually added noise to the system.

Another nice unit in that price range is the Vansevers Super Companion.

twl
3,251 posts
 
Viridian, Check the Dave Magnan home-brew recipes for power conditioning. He gives simple solutions for little money if you are a little handy with a soldering iron.
weiserb's avatar
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weiserb
476 posts
 
You can't beat the Monster Power 3500 for the money
stehno
1,453 posts
 
At that price break, I would forego any power conditioner as it may offer little or no benefit and may actually worsen the sonics. If you bought a $300 lc for $150, then that could be better.

And by all means try to borrow a high quality line conditioner for a/b comparisons with the inexpensive lc. That way, you can be assured exactly what you're getting or not getting with the inexpensive lc.
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
I would also consider getting a couple Blue Circle Noisehounds $100 each (one is OK). Nothing else at that price will clean power as well.
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