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  3. 128460-63615

Do I need a power conditioner?

I’m in the process of dropping a dedicated 20 amp circuit or 2 into the music room.
So if I have a dedicated circuit for the amp, and a dedicated circuit for everything else,
is a conditioner useful?
I have several fairly decent systems going that I tweek and retweek.
Just got around to upgrading cables. Avoided conditioners because, in general, they dampen the presentation.
Was using a PS Audio PPP for low power components. But fell for the Shunyata spiel.
Plugged in a Hydra 4 with a Python Helix and was very happy with how it cleaned up the Zu Druids.
Seems high sensitivity speakers maybe reveal the grunge also.
Moved it to my system with the Martin Logans and the presentation seemed a bit lean and just a bit lifeless, using just copperhead cable to Hydra. (using all Pangea to get from the Hydra to other components.)
Then I put a Black Mamba from Classe amp straight to the wall and Wow! Single most significant tweek ever for me.
So I’m thinking, maybe I don’t need the Denali I ordered if I just use a couple dedicated circuits and some Shunyata power cords everywhere.
Opinions?
Thanks. :)
leotis

Showing 3 responses by falconquest

falconquest's avatar
falconquest
1,108 posts
 
I have always been a fan of balanced power. The term "power conditioner" is a generic term in my opinion. Just what does that mean? It sounds like something you apply to your hair after shampoo. I highly recommend the following presentation, not so much for the aforementioned Niagara product but because this engineer comes from Furman, the owner of the market in commercial sound reinforcement systems worldwide. To me, balanced power is essential even with a dedicated line. Research balanced power and please ignore the crazy claims that it is dangerous. I have a balanced power unit and my system is black as can be.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITkuBgFtTjs
falconquest's avatar
falconquest
1,108 posts
 
Congratulations on the 2RQ, that's a very nice unit. It is clear from all of the comments here that there are a lot of misconceptions about the power that drives our systems. No one is at fault, it just takes a lot of research to understand it. Please let us know your impressions of the Equi=Tech.
falconquest's avatar
falconquest
1,108 posts
 
I'm not about to say I know more than you but wanted to add the comment that if you read the stereophile forum comments posted by randy-11 you will notice that the poster raging against balanced power is saying that it is against NEC to have a balanced "circuit" which I'm sure is true. A balanced power "conditioner" (device) is different than a home "circuit". I use a BPT 2.5 Signature and the instructions say to use it with three pronged plugs. It is certainly not intended to be used on a lamp or other two pronged device. Does anyone really believe there would be so many balanced power devices available on the market if they weren't UL approved? I get a kick out of electricians and their absolute disdain for audio enthusiasts (I'll avoid that term that carries so much baggage). 
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