This is my experience. I live in a city, and it really made a positive difference when I got a PS Audio Power Director 3.5, my first power conditioner/surge protector. The most immediate effect was that I now had smoother highs as compared to the grainy treble I had before I got the power conditioner. And my system sounded more dynamic. Yes, I do believe that when one is living in an area with noisy/dirty power or when there is no exclusive outlet for the audio and/or video gear, one will benefit from a power conditioner. However, even if I did not need a power conditioner, I would still use a surge protector for peace of mind.
i just want everyone to know..........
i had gone back and forth and heard the pro’s and con’s of a power conditioner. even talking to many manufacturers and some one high up at shunyata that sells them, and he told me if you just get a dedicated outlet that’s all you really need.. and that is what I had. lighting hit my box the other day and since I leave my amp on 24/7 I was advised to get a good power strip. it made sense, so I purchased the furman pst 8 for $94, for immediate protection. right out of the box did it change my system characteristics, better detail, better dynamics, better sound stage/image, better everything. I immediately ordered another one for my wifes system. it has a coax for the cable, don’t see much difference there. its big, solid and seems well built, please look into this at this price point, just trying to inform the masses......