Guidance for choosing step down transformer for audio gear
If you are using an isolation/Step down transformer, if the transformer is loaded past about 50% of its capacity it will begin to make significant distortion on its output. Its the 5th harmonic of the line frequency that becomes problematic- this harmonic causes power transformers to rattle, motors to have poor torque, diodes to radiate more noise. To avoid that you apply the 2x rule- it should not be tasked beyond 50% of its rated capacity. |
I found this on the Golden Ear site. I find it a bit weird that they say you can snip easily, but to return requires a technician and high end soldering equipment. That does not make a lot of sense, but they may be just trying to scare people away. They also suggest 1500VA as suitable for 2 units, so my 3000VA for everything you have, and maybe even 2000VA is reasonable. That is strange and I saw that on the GE forum so I contacted them directly and was told the two options would be to replace the 120v amps in the towers with 240v amps that they sell directly but am not comfortable doing that kind of internal amp swap myself. I have been considering getting something like this but have a significant concern that the unit has a simple button switch to go from 120 to 240 output. As for the NAD I am certainly going to reach out to determine if this is an internal auto switch or if something else needs to be done, looking all around the unit and through the manual I do not see anything. I'm starting to wonder if the best course would be to buy the 240v internal amps for the GoldenEars and have someone local professionally install them before I leave would be the best course. The transformer being continuously on and drawing power was not something that I had considered before and I know there are plenty of protectors/conditioners out there that are rated for 240v. |
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