Experience with Inakustik 3500P Power Conditioner??

@milpai Thanks for info and I'm going to go ahead and place an order for the 3500P this weekend with Bob. Hopefully I'll get the same improvements you have experienced. Btw did you upgrade your ac receptacles?
-Alex

@rareace,Why "unfortunate"? You made a decision - be happy and enjoy it. If you think your ears are not good enough to differentiate cables, that is fine. Life is not about what cables or components you purchase after reading reviews. Just invest in more music and enjoy that.
As for which of the 2 Inakustik products made a bigger improvement - that is super difficult to answer because both upgrades made a significant improvement in my system. I started with the power conditioner and that raised the bar so high, it was like someone took a rug that was covering the speakers. With the cables the sound stage went from big to humongous, clarity improved even more and both ends of the sound spectrum opened up like never before. Hope this helps.

Thanks so much for you feedback @milpai Unfortunately I just purchased some hand made custom cables from Maze Audio which I'm pretty happy about even though I'm a skeptic on cables. I'll be honest that I purchased them for the aesthetics as they come in a very nice white braided jacket. I'm in the camp that my ears are not good enough to hear different cables but who knows maybe that'll change as my system improves. Which was the bigger improvement for you? The power conditioner or speaker cables?
-Alex

@rareace,
I agree with @dvdboulet on the power conditioner. While I do not have much experience with power conditioners (Brickwall was the only other one before this), I can say with confidence that this product literally transformed my listening experience. Why it works the way it works - I do not know. But it does and it mesmerizes me. Based on that experience alone I went ahead and decided to get the LS-2404 bi-wire speaker cables (Bob was insisting LS-1204, which are cheaper). "I am satisfied with these new cables", would be an understatement. You can read my mini review of that on this forum where I have detailed my experience about these cables.
But I would say, even the speaker cables beat my existing cables and I think that difference would have been evident even without the power conditioner. My plan is to get the ICs to replace my existing ones. You can say, the Inakustik products (Referenz series) have gained my faith.

See if Bob offers a bundle deal with the Inakustik 1204 power cable.  That would be the best way to go.  For a while there I thought it was actually being included but not sure of pricing.

Thanks so much @dvdboulet for your detailed response! Sounds like the problems you had with the other conditioners are what I am experiencing. Can I also ask what power cable you are using with the 3500P?  Also do you connect to an aftermarket outlet receptacle such as a Furutech NCF or a standard AC outlet? I just want to make sure to provide the best possible power to maximize the performance of the 3500P.
-Alex

Hey Alex,

Apologies for not having yet dedicated the time to get my detailed review written and posted here... as it would/will directly address your questions. Rest assured this is one of those rare cases where they hyperbole is warranted... and perhaps more importantly... benefits (almost?) every system/component. It’s not a case of "sounds good with system A, but not system B" as it’s not "tuning" the sound the way some tweaks might (not taming highs, or accentuating mids etc.). Rather, it’s like someone took the focus on a projector and suddenly dialed it in correctly, and subtle details that weren’t apparent before (which you had been blaming on your screen or your blu-rays, or the fact that you only had a 1080p projector and not 4K) suddenly appear... rendering an image that’s more natural, more relaxed, more "real" looking than before. And that same benefit would apply to any projector that’s out-of-focus.

It’s sort of like that. I’m using a Hegel H30 amp, HD30 DAC, Ansuz cables, stillpoints under almost everything, and right now my "undeserving" AVS-Rocket RS760s (The Sopra 3s that I had weren’t working well... imaging was obscured and bass had no impact, which at the time I sold them, I assumed was all based on room acoustics and lack of system synergy). Now that I’ve got the Inakustic 3500P in the system, it sounds BETTER than it has with any other speakers previously *without* the Inakustik (I think this is why Bob says get this thing *first* as it then lays the foundation to actually allow your present system to sound as it should... then you can start making changes to other components and really know what you're hearing). Now, and with my Rockets that have always sounded dry and with no soundstage-depth before...  Imaging is shocking... the holographic soundstage is scary-good, and there’s so much ease and subtle nuance to the sound it’s a joy to listen and rediscover everything. And this is with mid-fi speakers that I never would have imagined could reveal these characteristics. Now I’m wondering what it would have been like had I kept the Sopra 3s... but I honestly had no idea that just power-conditioning could affect everything so profoundly.

I should add that yes, I had tried other power conditioning devices prior and each had pros/cons (mostly Ansuz... like their Sparkz and power bar). Plugging different devices in, or in a different order in the outlet strip, or moving the sparkz from the wall outlet to the power strip or from outlet to outlet all would affect the sound differently, and in some ways it was objectively "better" when I had the sopra 3s (as it tamed their brightness and aided in overall imaging). But depending on what was plugged in and where (for instance, I found running the amp to the wall with no Sparkz/power-strip always sounded the most "alive") there was a trade-off in top-end and "life". With the Inakustic... it’s 100% improvement in every category with no downside at all... and that includes running the amp off it too.

If you have any questions I’d be happy to chat with you off-line as I know how nerve-racking it can be when shelling out cash based on 3rd-party reviews from folks with different gear (and rightly so). But in this case I think you (and anyone else) are "safe" to give the Inakustik a try. And let Bob know I said so :)

-Dave

Hi,
I’m interested in getting this but want to find out if any of you guys had a negative experience with power conditioners prior to the 3500P? I’ve demo’d the Audioquest Niagara 1000 and it actually took away some dynamics such as bass so I’m hesitant to try another conditioner. 

@dvdboulet,Looking forward to your detailed review, since you actually own the product and experienced it.

Hi all,

I wanted to say that even with the sale period over, I decided to get the Inakustik 3500P based on all the reviews and because I suspected that much of what was "holding my system back" was source-power related.

I’ve had it installed since Sunday, and while I want to wait a week or two to let it break in even more before I post an in-depth review, I can say thus far that, other than speakers, this single purchase has made the most profound difference in the overall sound of my system versus any other component or change I’ve made before (going back to 1993)... and that "difference" is 100% improvement... absolutely no downside or compromise in any category I can detect (everything is plugged into the Inakustik... music server, dac, and amp). I am astounded. I quite honestly did not think this level of improvement could be had with a single upgrade and I had no idea that my current assemblage of gear could sound as good as it does now. Expect a detailed review soon...

-Dave

Hi,
We did have a Black Friday sale but it did not include the upgraded 2502F Inakustik power cord with the fI-32 and fI-28 Furutech connectors.

Cheers,

@dvdboulet,
Why don't you reach out to Robert and check if something like this is going on now? Not sure if that was for BlackFriday or Christmas special price.

Looks like the complete review is out from Sound Advocate
https://www.thesoundadvocate.com/2020/02/report-inakustik-ac-3500p-power-station-and-ls-4004-air-speaker-cables/

"Anyone considering the 3500P unit: they are having a $2400 free shipping special right now."

Hi!

Where did you order? I've found this link below by googling, but I don't see an option to select the US model (and the photo shows the EU socket style). And the price isn't $2100 :)

https://worldwidewholesales.com/product/reference-power-station-ac-3500p/

Forgot I had multiple systems here. I actually need to update the info as I moved to Kentucky and have a new system in a nice upstairs room. I put down mass loaded vinyl on the floor before the new laminate. It worked pretty well.

Still have the Sashas, Bricasti M1, Pass XP12, Jena labs, DCCA and Verastarr power cables, and now a Luxman M800A amp. I was plugging the amp into the 20 amp circuit and the dac and pre into a BPT balanced unit.

About 3 weeks ago I received the Shunyata Sigma USB cable. It was transformational: black background, delicacy and refinement of the soundstage, and a very nice tone to everything. Very nice.

So when the USB cable kicked everything up significantly I saw the power as the weak spot. When I looked for Isotek reviews I came across comparisons to the Inakustik unit and became intrigued. Pretty much everything you folks have mentioned is true. I hooked up everything to the Inakustik to go all in. 


Bass is cleaner. The clarity is amazing. Like adding another Sigma cable. I really like the real-ness of the instruments and voices. Almost scary. I think we all hope our systems can sound this good and we probably forget our speakers are capable of much more than we typically provide them. People knock Wilson speakers, and I've looked for alternatives recently, but the sound now is just phenomenal. Now I'm swinging back to what could be a weak link and that is the IC's.

Thanks again fellas!

@bugredmachine ,Welcome to the club. I see that you have 2 systems. Which one was the power conditioner for? Would definitely like to know what you think about the change in sound after introducing the unit in your system.

Anyone considering the 3500P unit: they are having a $2400 free shipping special right now.

Mine arrived today and it shipped yesterday from Canada to me in Kentucky via DHL.

Thanks to you folks for sharing and I can't wait to hook it up. Kinda busy with work and the kitchen remodel!

Almost bought some Isotek devices but am glad I stumbled across this thread while googling for reviews. Thanks guys! I am sure it will everything you say it is.

The Inakustik AC-3500 power station is not your ordinary run of the mill product. And their matching LS-4004 Air Technology Speaker Cables are to my amazement, something quite extraordinary! 
See preview:
https://www.thesoundadvocate.com/2019/10/preview-inakustik-power-station-ac-3500p-and-ls-4004-air-sp...

@rja

Yes, milpai is correct (one manual for all versions/countries). I Have the Schuko version and have the same manual (which in my case, makes sense).

So this was intended for Schuko units?

@rja ,
I had a similar concern when I got this power conditioner and began using it. I had reached out to the dealer and he mentioned that the manual inside is a European manual and that statement does not apply to the US model.
Yeah, I wish they had printed a manual specifically for the US model.

Just noticed this in fine print on inside back cover of user manual.

"This product is NOT intended for the United Sates of America or territories
that belong to the USA, and may not be used in these countries."

Huh? WTF does that mean? Kind of weird don’t yah think? I'm more than curious.
Mine has US outlets and was purchased from the Canadian importer and is currently in use.
If anyone has clarification please let me know.

@fiza,
What conditioner do you currently own? Get both and return the one that did not work for you.

Did anybody compare this with the revolutionary DR Accoustics Antigone?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qi9IlOaZGHE

• Patent Pending Noise reduction technology
•  MQCI Noise reduction technology (Micro Quartz Chamber Isolation System)
•  ASSITS Vibrations Control Subsystem
•  Individual phase filtration system
•  Integrated anti resonance footer
• Receptacles with Nano Crystal Formula (NCF)
• Rhodium-plated Alpha pure copper receptacles
• Multistage Point to point Wiring (No PCB)
• Cryogenic internal Cabling
• 4 AWG Ultra-pure Copper internal Wire
• No current limiting fuse or breaker.

https://6moons.com/audioreviews2/dracoustics2/1.html

Has anyone purchased the inakustik 3500 off eBay? There is a seller from Germany who claims to be a licensed seller confering 2 year warrantee, and he messaged me saying he has US models as well (this listed on eBay have euro style plugs). Price is attractive... thoughts?

The Inakustik AC-3500P Power Station is a top notch unit that will subtly, yet incontrovertibly increase your musical enjoyment in any top- notch audiophile system. It’s design is quite unparalleled to other power stations.

When joined with Inakustik’s top of the line ‘reference’ LS-4004 loudspeaker cables, it brings forth a combined increase of musical enjoyment that is quite hard to forget!
Read our preview here:
https://www.thesoundadvocate.com/2019/10/preview-inakustik-power-station-ac-3500p-and-ls-4004-air-sp...

@stringreen,
You posted immediately after my post. There was no way for me to know that you were NOT commenting on my post. I sincerely apologize if your post was not directed to me.
I agree that people should listen carefully. And in my system, this product did really "jaw dropping" changes. I was assuming that dedicated lines is an "end all be all" for audio system. This thing simply transformed my system for good. And when I put Herbies Tall Tender Footers under it, the imaging simply locked and focus became pretty tight. When I come across such a product, I am thrilled and would like to share that with fellow members here. I was super skeptical before purchasing this product. You can read my first response in this thread and you will know what I am saying.
Regarding Herbies products - I have multiple sets of tender footers under different components. The last component I used the Herbies under, was the preamp. And that tightened the way the loudspeakers imaged the soundstage. I am glad that things worked for me. But understand that I do have a dedicated listening space, by God’s grace, and it makes a difference.

My next upgrade would be the spikes under the loudspeakers, with the Isoacoustic Gaia IIs. @jperry has similar loudspeakers and replacing the spikes with Nordost footers made a major difference in his system. I have demoed the Gaias at AXPONA and heard what they can do. If they don’t work, I can always return them in the trial period. Unfortunately this will not happen so soon.

Milpal.......I wasn’t talking to you. Why are you taking such an attitude. Im only talking about my system.... and encouraging all to listen carefully at what any addition/correction sounds like. All too readily, through the years of playing around with this and that black box, I’ve had to put them in the garage never to use them again. I have an all Ayre system. Ayre themselves makes a power conditioner, so I suppose there is some value in them. In my system, I haven’t found one that doesn’t have a wart or two of which I would rather do without.
Re: Herbie....I put them under my Vandersteen's and they absolutely ruined the sound...turned the speakers to mud.  Under other speakers, they may be wonderful, but clearly Vandersteens in my house with my components should be spiked.

I wish people would not respond on stuff they have not used before. And they continue to use the same rant year after year, on power conditioner threads.

@stringreen Your system is your problem not mine. No one can help if your system behaves differently than what they have. On my system, when I added Herbies Footers under 2 components, I was able to make out the difference in presentation. I know my system enough and don't need your validation. I was letting the forum members know about a  review on the product. Read it if you like or move on.

Most members here pat themselves on their back for their fine purchases.  I've tried many conditioners and in my system there are always warts....sometimes weeks of listening is required to hear them. 

@thoms,
Reach out to user @worldwidewholesales, who is the NA dealer and ask him that question. He would have answers for you.

Looks like we have one more positive experience with the Inakustik

https://www.thesoundadvocate.com/2019/10/preview-inakustik-power-station-ac-3500p-and-ls-4004-air-speaker-cable/  

I have to agree with ozzy. A power distributor could probably be used with a power conditioner in the same duplex to similar effect for far less money.

Hi,
I’m joining the club, I just bought a 3500p. can you confirm this unit inverts the phase? (I saw the post above about the small triangle on the left side of each outlet).  Why would the do that. My wall outlet is not a schuko so I can’t turn the plug upside down. 
Do you think adding a schuko adapter to the wall socket might be ok soundwise?

So this week, I ordered a couple of products from Herbies audiolab for my preamp. I ordered the Ultrasonic SS tube dampers and Tall Tender feet. The tube dampers were exactly as I ordered and I I am happy with them. But the tall feet were too tall for the preamp.So I decided to try them under the power conditioner. I had not realized that, with the power conditioner on a shelf (taken from the Salamander rack) sitting on the floor, it was experiencing vibrations from the loudspeakers. Teh tall Tender foot were the necessary remedy to take off those vibrations resulting in a tight bass and imaging.

Was using a Bybee Stealth.
Recently purchased a used Akiko Corelli as well.
As always, we shall see.

@rja ,
Do let us know what your experience was. Do you have a power conditioner currently?

Ordered Monday night received today (Wednesday).
Haven’t tried it yet.

@ozzy
In order for them to fit the outlets they needed it to be that size. Take a look at a back image. If anything it looks compact to me. Buy one, test it out and report back?

https://www.hifi-voice.com/images/testy/2019/20190830/inakustik-3500p/2019-08-31-TST-InAkustik-3500P-9.JPG

milipari,

It would be interesting to compare it to the Niagara 7000.

twoleftears,

I agree, but it just seems like overkill to put it in such a large heavy chassis.

ozzy

Try inside shots of the older inexpensive Ayre power conditioner, or even the Isotek Aquarius.  Many cases seem oversized wrt the internals.

@rja ,
I have the black color. Check out the pics on my system page.

@ozzy ,
Yes, the internals doesn't look like much. Same thing cane be said when you compare a 1960 computer to a desktop today. But it is the results that matter. Honestly, this power conditioner is something special. If you go back and read my older posts, I was really doubting the claims that @bacardi and @tenchi made. But once I got this unit in my system, it was easy to understand why. I know you have the AQ Niagara 7000 that you tweaked. I am not sure, if you get this unit, you would have anything to tweak. Why not try one in your system?

Aniwolf. Thanks for the help.
Still looks empty inside compared to the size of the chassis.

Ozzy

@ozzy

Don’t be lazy Ozzy...just type in Google "Inakustik AC-3500P"

Wow! the picture of the insides doesn’t look like much. How much does it cost?

ozzy

Did you guys order the silver or black face plate?

This is probably what's in the bottom half:

https://www.google.com/search?q=inakustik+3500p+images&tbm=isch&source=hp&sa=X&ved=2...:

Wig

@wig,
Good to know. Looks like there is another review for this unit. This is the first time I saw the internal picture of the unit.

https://www.in-akustik.de/fileadmin//user_upload/Downloads/stereoplay_2019-07_AC-3500P.pdf