Refreshing to read your post. No one can refute what one hears in ones own system. Just a factual account of what you heard. Sometimes we get buried in theoretical opinions as to why something can or can’t sound good. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Furman Elite 15 PFi - just purchased 3-2023
So I've spent well over a year reading and listening to info on power conditioners, both pro and con. Looked at all brands from $1K to around $3K. As my entire system is around $25-30K, I figured that was a reasonable range for one. I don't have a dedicated AC line, I checked into it, but it would have been expensive for my home.
I was using an old (circa 2000) Monster Cable power solution for all my components except for my Luxman 590AXII which was plugged into the wall. I had upgraded all my AC power cables to the $150-200 range, but I can't say upgrading the cables did much for me.
The Furman Elite 15 PFi however has made a positive difference in sound. I now have everything plugged into the Furman (it has an outlet for power amps). So what do I hear? Well, it's more like what I don't hear.
I can't exactly describe what it did, but music just seems a bit clearer, there's a little more defined space around the instruments. Maybe like a layer of grunge has been removed? Less electrical noise? And yes, I've read/heard that doesn't make sense. However, what I hear, or don't hear, is similar to the difference I heard going from a low end DAC ($1K) to a mid-tier one ($6K range). So I know there is something real happening.
I wanted to share what I found. You guys can debate it. I'm not trying to talk anyone into anything, or dissuade those that say conditioners don't do anything. I am just reporting on my experience and journey.
Hope it helps others.