Garth Powell on Why Audioquest does not make AC Regenerators


Interesting interview from a couple weeks ago with Garth Powell of Audioquest who seriously decries the use of AC regenerators with a detailed argument. I’m not qualified to affirm or rebut that argument, but since people debate "conditioners vs. regenerators" here, I’m passing it along for your inspection.

https://youtu.be/bXRehON7SlM

Notice that he doesn't mention ps audio and that ps audio defends its regenerators (as exempt from Garth's critique) in the comments. Not sure how many other regenerators out there beyond ps audio. 
128x128hilde45

Showing 1 response by nmmusicman

I’ve owned and currently own PS Audio’s P300(2) and P600 AC regenerator’s and prefer the older series that utilized balanced power on the output, sounding much better than their later series IMHO in a direct comparison. One has to remember not to exceed 70% of a AC regenerators output capacity or risk compression and a thinning of the sound. I prefer to use AC regenerators for source components and high current balanced power for amps and subs.

I also own the Audioquest Niagra 1200 conditioner in my GF’s system and use it in conjunction with a PS Audio P300 regenerator with very good results. Got the 1200 on a trial basis and didn’t return it as it is quite effective in that system

Yes, Garth of Audioquest knows what he is doing having been at Furman power for many years and then to AQ where he/they are producing great products. The Niagra 7000 uses balanced power for the source components if I’m not mistaken and their DBS biased transformer is quite innovative/impressive.

As to the OP's question of who makes AC regenerators, there is of course PS Audio then Kemp electronics and Walkers turntable motor controller is a low wattage AC Regenerator with custom waveform synthesis. Monarchy Audio also makes an AC Regenerator. I have one but it went wonky on me where it wouldn't hold the voltage stable. 

Here is the Kemp link:  http://www.kempelektroniks.nl/en/235/kemp-elektroniks/products/power-regenerator/power-station-75

Here is the Monarchy link: http://www.monarchy-audio.com/AC_Regen_frm_Main.htm