I run separate 2 ch and HT systems and both are connected to PC's. Haven't had any adverse results from surges and out west in Colorado, we get plenty of them. For Drr and Tbromgard - what are the benefits of plugging your power amps directly into the wall??
Power conditioning / surge protection
I have some decent Rega stuff. It's currently plugged into one of those surge protectors you get for 20 bucks at Staples. The odds are against it (and I'm insured), but I want to be sure a surge doesn't wipe out my gear. Also, if I can get a better sound by "conditioning" the power, then great. Although I have no way of knowing if there's anything funky about the power I'm getting from the wall. One hears a lot of claims, and I could easily spend $400+ if I wanted to (which actually I don't). So I'm asking for general advice along these lines - thanks in advance.
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"For Drr and Tbromgard - what are the benefits of plugging your power amps directly into the wall??" I plug my amps into the wall, as well. I'm not an expert on line conditioners, but the biggest reason for most people is to not limit the power output of the amp in any way. Sometimes conditioners can make an amp sound a bit slower or not as dynamic. Another reason, is that amps are less likely to be damaged by AC than other types of components. In fact, amps are very similar to power regenerators. Heres some examples of what I'm talking about. The PS audio 1000 regenerator is pretty much the same as the PS audio Classic 250. Same thing with the PS 500 and the HCA. When Monster came out with their regenerators, they came out with a line of amps based on them. I'm sure that some of the other posters will have a lot more to share on this topic as well. |
+1 re Truman's comment on the BrickWall surge protectors/line filters. I use this model, into which I connect my entire system, including the amplifier. I have not sensed it causing any adverse impact on dynamics or anything else. I should add, though, that my amp is Class A, and therefore its current draw is essentially constant and independent of the dynamics of the music. That would not be true of Class AB or Class D amps. Regards, -- Al |
I agree with Stringreen that I have never heard a power conditioner that didn't do damage to the sound, especially analog. Perhaps I am lucky with the power in my area, though, as in my brother's area, a power conditioner results in a distinct improvement. However, a surge protector is a must if you live in an area with frequent storms, as I do. I like the Monster ones, that basically don't do anything at all to the sound, yet protect the equipment. Basically, they fry themselves in the storm, protecting your equipment. This has happened twice to me, and both times it worked exactly as it was supposed to. You can get them very cheaply on Amazon. |
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