Isolation Transformers

I've gone back and forth on the power regenration thing for a while now. I am familiar with ExactPower and think highly of the products they offer. My problem is my RSA Haley works quite well and I'm not inclined to mess with that. I have considered balanced power for the front end and the SP-15a would be a consideration.

As for tonal differences in isolation transformers, I'm not even at that crossroad let alone down the road. I'd have a lot more research and some auditioning to do. I can see the logic in the theory though. I would think that iron trannies versus toroids could conceivably offer sonic differences. I'm also told Q-type transformers are much better as well. So again, lots to consider. I guess I still have my work cut out for me.

Nsgarch,

Thanks for the advice. As always you are very helpful. I do use the 20a circuit for my gear, just not dedicated. There are a total of 7 duplex outlets on that circuit, but to my knowledge, no light switches to my knowledge. I just have audio gear plugged into one of those duplexes via the RSA. The others are not in use.

If I can get a trial on the EP I may give it a whirl. I'll have to look around and see.

Nsgarch - no can do since I rent and the system is not using the first outlet after the breaker. In essence I'm probably back to looking at balanced power and power regeneration options. I was hoping to save a few bucks but it doesn't appear I can.

Sabai, I did try a Topaz unit and also tried the Exact Power unit recommended by Nagarch. I actually preferred the Exact Power. The isolation transformer actually was prone to mechanical noise. At the time I was living in a triplex in CA and the power fluctuated quite a bit from 110V to 118V. When my neighbor used her hair drier or turned on her AC unit the effects the transformer made lots of noise. Probably something getting injected back into the power line causing it.

These days I use products from Alan Maher Designs. I have been quite happy with them.

Sabai, I was pretty surprised as well. The Topaz units come highly regarded and yes mine was heavy as well. I think they are fine units and my business partner and I have discussed building our own since he winds transformers. So I might give it another go.

For about 6 years now I have been using the Alan Maher PE's and CBF's. The PE's are plugged into various wall outlets and the CBF's are installed in my circuit breaker box. I also have one of his power strips with PE technology. The PE's provide power factor correction and line conditioning.

Sabai, I have a set of speaker cables that incorporate Bybee technology. If you are a fan of Bybee's the Alan Maher PE's would be of interest to you or perhaps some of Alan's newer quantum designs.

The Topaz was indeed a mystery but resurrecting this thread has convinced me to revisit an isolation transformer. Thanks for that.

That is a good question. He used to have a Facebook page but it appears now a website is up again:

http://www.amquantumdesigns.com/

I have to say after looking at Alan's website and noticing his Facebook page seems to have all content removed I am wondering if he is still offering any new products. My last dealings with him were 5 years ago and I have been really happy with the original set of PEs and CBFs that I have not had a need to address or purchase anything else from him. So unfortunately I am not sure I can be of much further help. Maybe someone else can chime in.

Here are some pictures I found Googling them. You just plug them into outlets around your home. My method was to use onion every independent circuit in the home. In some cases I used two in parallel or series on the same circuit. You had various son tuning the circuit doing this. Over time the original PE design evolved but I still use the originals.

I know Alan used to work for a few different rock bands and last I knew he was living in Germany where his wife is stationed. Not sure what is up with him these days.

https://www.google.com/search?q=alan+maher+power+enhancer&oe=UTF-8&hl=en&client=safari&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=isch&source=og&sa=N&tab=wi&ei=PQeDUO6VDYKi2AWTlYHoAw&biw=1024&bih=672&sei=RgeDUKy1D8PO2wWMkIHgCQ

Sabai, the PEs have been working great for me. They provide more than adequate noise reduction and they allow for flexible tuning. Depending on if I use them in parallel or series configuration I can dial in the sound as desired. Sort of like adjustable bias or tube rolling in some respects.

I have the Quantum power strip which offers a smaller dose of what your Quantum Symphony provides. I was very surprised at how well this product worked with video. I believe the developer of these products sold the IP to Nordost which in turn has raised the price of entry for audiophiles to acquire this technology.

Sabai, found an old review I posted on Audio Asylum:

http://www.audioasylum.com/reviews/Power-Conditioner-Surge-Protector/Alan-Maher-Designs/Reference-II/tweaks/16/163287.html

There is on on Audio Circle as well that I will look for. Hope this helps.