dedicated lines will help any audio equipment not just tube amps. i have a dedicated line for my front end and one for my amps. it will stop you from having all of those other electrical devices you have in your house on the same line making all of that noise. it will make a tremendous difference. by far one of the best things i have done for my system's sound |
You don't *need* to install a dedicated line. The amp will run fine as long as you don't have a bunch of other equipment or appliances plugged into the same circuit.
On the other hand, a dedicated line typically will *improve* your sound, and many folks consider having several dedicated circuits providing power to our audio systems to be a starting point for achieving the best sound possible in a given system.
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your correct the amps will run just fine without them, but you would not belive what happens to the noise floor when you enstall them. it is quite amazing |
As stated above, dedicated lines - I have one for front end componentes and one for amps - will do more to improve your system than any "add on" electrical isolation components and are far cheaper than most of that stuff.
Best to talk to an electrician electrical contractor.
My advice - talk to more than one and get some prices to compare. |
You should look into installing a dedicated ground as well. |
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"You should look into installing a dedicated ground as well."
When you say "dedicated ground" do you mean a separate line back to ground (which most dedicated circuits would have anyway) or a separate ground rod? |
Both . It is called an 'isolated ground'.
Quite often found on sensitive equipment in hospitals and computer rooms .
WARNING , not every electrician knows how to install an isolated ground correctly !
While dedicated lines and isolated grounds will give you maximum performance , they are only needed if you are having problems that will be alleviated by their use . Can you hear noise on your system when appliances cycle on and off such as your HVAC , refridgerator , microwave , small kitchen appliances or flourecent lights ?
Can you unplug items that are on the same circuit as your audio equipment during listening sessions ?
If you do need to run dedicated lines , do at least two 20 amp circuits , one for your analog equipment and one for digital .
Good luck . |
Hi, An isolated ground would require a separate grounding rod(s). What you need to do is disconnect the ground currently going to your receptacle, and simply run a 8 GA or 6 GA from your newly installed grounding rod(s) to the ground on the receptacle. |
Would you ever be concerned about the distance between grounding rods? That you might possibly create a "battery effect", or difference in potential between grounds? |
Dedicated lines are the way to go. Also, put the breakers on the opposite phase of the fridge, install at the top of the rail if possible and clean the new breakers before they are put in. This is well worth the trouble and expense. |
I read that grounding rods are supposed to be at least 6ft. apart . |
So, if you cannot install a dedicated line, is the next best thing a power conditioner?
It is supposed to filter out all of the noise from appliances - isn't it?
I know power re-generation is probably the ultimate alternative, but it's BIG$$$
What are the drawbacks of conditioners?
Thanks |
Our electric code requires ground rods at a minimum of 6' apart. |
When I read up on power conditioners , I found that they impart their signature or had a sound . Just the same as anything else in the system chain .
I am assuming that you do have some interference problems , or noise , coming from your speakers . Can you identify the culprit ? Is it possible to eliminate the problem during listening sessions by unplugging or turning off the power ? Just a thought .
Good luck . |
If 6' is the minimum (between rods) what's max? When does it become a different "ground" and a potential (pun) hazard? My power is fine, just interested. |
Dedicated lines may be better and may also be cheaper than power conditioners. I've only heard a few times that conditioners made the sound better, but dedicated lines almost always improve the sound, although the change may be subtle.
Congrats on your Joules- nice amps.
RFG |
From Rf_gumby: I've only heard a few times that conditioners made the sound better When I added my power conditioner to my AV setup I noticed an amazing difference to the picture quality and the bass tightend up considerably When I added one to my hi-fi I noticed much better all around sound - but - I'm still not sure if it is the effect of the conditioning - or the fact that the outlets on the conditioner make a much tighter contact with the plug than than what I had previously been using I did compare: 1. the amp plugged into the conditioner as opposed to 2. the amp plugged into the wall outlet and could not detect any audible difference - in both cases Furutech power cable was used The biggest difference I have found is replacing the wall outlet with hospital/Lab Grade outlets |
KJO;
Let me know if you find the need for dedicated lines as I just bought the fourier panthare amps; they to will be similiar to your joule electra's ac draw.
Enjoy a very excellant amp!!!!
Regards and Happy Listening;
RLeff |
RLeff, I have been listening to the Joules for about 3 months without a dedicated line. They sound terrific - paired with the Joule preamp, I could not be happier. I am still considering installing a dedicated line, though, because they seem to get only just enough power. The Joules use a variac. I have to dial up the variac almost to its maximum point (and sometimes to its max) to get the amplifiers enough current (the amps have a readout that lets you know when you are at the proper point). I have not made the time yet to contact an electrician to see if the installation of one or two dedicated lines (20 amp as suggested here) would do the trick. What has been your experience with the panthare's? Regards, Kevin |
