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Dedicated outlets vs Power Conditioner

Would like to know opinions of people who have compared plugging components into a dedicated outlet vs a power conditioner. I currently have 2 dedicated lines, one line is shared by my monoblocks, the other I have an MIT Z center conditioner. The transport, Dac, turntable, and preamp are all plugged into the MIT. I have the option to add another dedicated line, if so I am considering plugging all directly into dedicated lines and remove the MIT. Has anyone done this before? I could do the evaluation myself except my power cords are currently too short for my preamp and dac to reach my dedicated outlet. Also has anyone ever had equipment damaged from a power surge? Thoughts on this would be appreciated.
128x128dmailer
gthrush1
241 posts
 
I think a combination of both techniques yields the best results. I have a dedicated line that I plug my Chang into, which in turn feeds power to my whole system.

I do not, however, believe in expensive power cords. I don't think they make a difference at all...
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
With respect to part of your question, I have had equipment fried by power surges twice. Both times were over 15 years ago; lost a Pioneer receiver and a CM Labs amp. I know at least once, the surge was associated with a nearby (not at the house) lightening strike.
cornfedboy
1,645 posts
 
dmailer: there's another thread going simultaneously with yours that has much useful information. title:

AC Conditioners: Must Have Tweak or More Voodo

-cfb
bob_bundus
1,834 posts
 
My best-results experience:
whole house lightning arrestor
decicated line
line conditioner w/ intergal surge protection
upgrade AC cords
glen's avatar
glen
714 posts
 
Bob gives some good advise. Get it all and use it all. I especially like the "whole house surge protection" as your first line of defense. If you plug your amps in direct this could be a lifesaver.

I had the Power Company over to the house the other night when my outlets were reading 132volts. Wouldn't you know they were back to around 122volts as soon as the guy pulled up. Think I'll leave the power conditioner in the system :~)
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