Equi=Core 1000

@larsman thanks for the reply. I have to say, your response did not give me the warm-fuzzies inside. Do you have the version with the new transformer, copper duplexes, and power cord? Also, have you used any other power conditioner to compare it to? Once again, thanks for your honesty, I was just hoping for a more positive response. 

@lowrider57 thanks so much for the detailed post. You have me excited to get the 1000 on Friday. I already regret not getting the 1800, but Walter said he takes trade ins so I’m sure we will be able to work something out. I’ve also done a little research on the Deep=Core but I need to do a little more. I’m guessing you have to match the models so they align. Thanks again for your post. 

@lowrider57 so I’m going to hook up an Atoll IN300 which is 150 watts per channel (total 300), Pontus II (DAC), Hermes (DDC), and a ifi Zen Stream. Walter said I should have enough wattage to connect all of them into the 1000. I have a Maestro duplex in the wall, so I might just plug the Atoll into the wall. I did order the Golden power cord and the upgraded duplexes. I find it very interesting how all audiophiles buy the same equipment and hear differently. For example, @gdnrbob had an older version of the Core and Deep and really couldn’t hear a difference. I hope that’s not the case with the current versions of both.

@gdnrbob thanks for your opinion. I do like the 1200 but feel like I’m losing a lot of detail and punch. I will do an a/b comparison and if I think the 1200 sounds better, I’ll have to decide what to do with the 1000.  

@lowrider57 so I got it last night. The shipping facility sent me the MKIII 1800 and not the 1000. I talked to Walter and we are going to work something out regarding price since it costs so much to ship it back. My first impressions are favorable but when I placed it in my cabinet I could feel something move around inside. That is a little concerning so I’ve let Walter know and asked him if that is normal. I’m concerned since it is over 50 lbs someone might have dropped it. Also, there is a light hum coming from it but I don’t know if that is normal since the transformer is so large. I’ll chat with Walter later today about both issues. UPDATE - talked to Walter and he is going to have me send it back and will send me another 1800 and honor the reduced price. I have to say, he’s been great to work with. 
 

Sound wise, I hear more detail and the noise floor is lower than the 1200. I think this is due to the filters in the 1200. I can tell the bass is tighter and the soundstage has expanded. My system sounds more sonic and airy. I asked Walter how long it will need to break in and he said not long but I think it will need a few days. The power cord will need at least two to three days if not more. I did think it was a little bright sounding but today it has begun to mellow. I’m going to listen more tonight and will update tomorrow. 

@marco1 sorry if my post was a little confusing. I’ve had the Niagara 1200 for about a year. I ordered the Equi=Core 1000 but was sent the 1800. The 1800 that was sent to me was dropped and one of the bolts holding the transformer was busted so Walter sent me another 1800. I should get it tomorrow and will post over the weekend if it sounds any different than the first one. The one with the broken bolt has a light hum and Walter said the transformer shouldn’t make a sound. I’m wondering if the hum is causing a little noise and if the new one will lower the noise floor. I’ll post more over the weekend. 

@marco1 i was able to listen to the new 1800 Friday and Saturday and if I had to describe the sound in one word, I’d use ‘revealing’. I think the 1200 has more filteration resulting in a smooth sound but with less detail. The 1800 reveals the true sound quality of your system and the recording you’re listening to. The additional detail does make me think my system is a little brighter but not in a way that is ear fatiguing. Just with two listening sessions, I think my ears are adjusting to the difference in sound. I need to spend more time with the 1800, but for now, I’m impressed with how it has lowered the noise floor and improved detail. Also, the bass is tighter than when using the 1200. Which one you should buy is dependent upon what type of sound you’re looking for. I do like the 1200 but think the 1800 is the better purchase and will have a bigger impact when upgrading other components. @lowrider57 - I’d like to hear more about the deep core and how it has lowered the noise floor and the difference with and without it. Also, I want to know if you have used any Underwood HiFi cables and if so, how do you like them. 

@marco1 - yes, you might want to go with the 1000 if you only need six outlets. Just remember the wattage and take it into consideration when buying. If you are leaning towards the Niagara 1200, I can give you a good price on the one I have. 

@marco1 - I sent you a pm