Anyone used 240V-120V step down transformers?

I will likely never go back to wall outlets. ALL my amps run through a step-down. I did not want to install dedicated lines for each of my five amps, but had two 240 volt outlets going unused. The simple solution: two step-downs.

Amp one has 1000 beefy watts -- blew all the 8 amp fuses on it the other day, the step-down gave it so much juice (it would max at 20 amps total for the step-down theoretically). Amp two has 2500 watts -- needs loads of current, was always shutting down from the wall (one of its protective functions for lack of current), now the amp will clip before ever shutting down. Amps 3 and 4 -- monoblocks 1600 watts apiece -- sail through anything. Amp 4 for dual 18" subs, never breaks a sweat. can't recommend this route enough. Email if you have more questions.

Wow - thanks for your input. What brand of stepdown did you use (do you have a web link?) and is it toroidal - can you hear any interference in the amp by the transformer? Also, how close to the amps are the transformers - I was thinking of positioning it at the switchbox to the house and then running a dedicated 20A 120V line to the audio room. appreicate some more feedback on this issue. Thanks.

At that size, I would advise using a stacked iron type. A toroid of that size will have substantial inrush current.

Toroids also have the dubious distinction of having too much bandwidth. A stacked iron type will filter out some of the crud on the AC line, which is always good.

This comes from someone whos uses toroids in all of his designs.............

(Just make sure that you put it far away from all of your gear.)

http://www.geocities.com/jonrisch/catch2.htm