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Does a good sounding surge protector exist?

My and my friends are searching for an elusive product, a surge protector that doesn't limit the dynamics of the music. Between us, we've tried quite a few, Chang, PS Audio (Quintet, UPC, PPP), Equitech, SurgeX, Richard Gray, APS Purepower etc. However, if its a good surge protector without MOVs, eg, SurgeX it severly limits the sound - dynamics and soundstage are compressed, highs cut off...

If it doesn't limit the dynamics significantly, its surge protection is questionable at best eg., Richard Gray, Chang, PSA Quintet. Is there something out there that will protect our gear without making it sound like mid-fi crap? I open the floor...
mikeyc38
nrostov
199 posts
 
Shunyata Hydra 8
gregadd
574 posts
 
Try the Isotel. I can't imagine how it would effect the sound since it does not even do anything unless the votlage excedds a certain level.
mikeyc38 OP
5 posts
 
Yes, we have dedicated lines. Acutally I find with a dedicated line and the lower noise floor, the restricted dynamics are even more apparent.

My friend emailed Richard Gray and they admitted that they have minimal, if any surge protection in their devices. I believe the Hydra is the same.
johnjbarlow's avatar
johnjbarlow
175 posts
 
I own a APC S20 with battery back up. I don't notice any limiting of dynamics. I actually love the unit. I think it smokes the Hydra 8 that did indeed limit dynamics in my system.
cytocycle
1,043 posts
 
Gregm: "Cytocycle -- what does a dedicated line/ amplification/ isolation, etc, have to do with surge protection?"

They are complaining/investigating about a lack of dynamics using even passive surge protection... so I'm saying if even passive outlets are limiting dynamics, then they need to look at other variables.. and if you haven't run at least 2 dedicated 20amp circuits to your audio system I think you are missing out on the cheapest biggest upgrade you can do for an audio system.

Oh yeah the Richard Grey stuff sounds boring ...sorry very disappointing compared to other balanced conditioners (BPT or Platinum Power)
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