2. amps-preamps
  3. 191779-149900

Is it possible to have too much/too many filters/tweaks?

Hi All,

So, we all know there are endless tweaks available to enhance our systems and get us that much closer to our audio nirvana. I have personally come across a few that are actual difference makers. But it got me thinking, is it possible that too many tweaks are actually counterproductive to what we are aiming for? For example, my main system (double duty for listening/HT) I have everything (except my 5-channel power amp) plugged into a Furman Elite 20PFi conditioner. In addition, I have a Puron AC plugged into my Furman (this one actually blew me away at how drastically it reduced background noise-legit), I also have a whole house surge protector. I have also installed an iFi Lan iSilencer between my TP-Link Powerline Ethernet Adapter and streamer. In addition, I have an ADD Powr Symphony between my streamer and DAC (another legit difference maker).

Now I just came across the iFi iPurifier 2 and was thinking of pulling the trigger. Then it occurs to me, is it possible to have too many filters/tweaks that it actually taints/diminishes the sound? How far/how much is too much, is there such a thing? Thoughts?

kingbr

Showing 1 response by ghdprentice

ghdprentice
7,792 posts
 

Good question.

 

My experience is that, in general, getting better quality components (including conditioning) is preferable to more. But it is highly dependent on your situation. If it were me… using a power conditioner… I would not use two, I would upgrade the one. It is more a part of my design Philosophy than anything. Stringing things together the number of permutations goes through the roof quickly (add sequence dependent). Also, more connections… and difficulty in assessing the difference between a 2x more costly power conditioner (for instance) and stringing three things… just because stringing improves the sound doesn’t mean that the 2x component would not have been even better.

For instance, I have a great streamer and a Ethernet regenerator did not sound better… but added connections and powered equipment in a small space. So I got rid of it.

So, probably a generalization would be difficult. I try and keep things simple.

More to discover