Linear power supplies produce 2nd order harmonic distortion as a byproduct...basically tube distortion.
so yeah they are going to sound better...especially if you're not chasing a sharp analytical studio monitor type of sound.
Just received my LHY Linear Power Supply
I just received an LHY Power Supply from Vinshine Audio. As always, Alvin and his team were wonderful to work with. The addition of the LHY to my Innous Pulse Mini does make an audible difference. The attack of bass has increased, as well as enhanced detail. I wouldn't say it's a night and day difference, but one that is incremental. I think anyone with a streamer that uses a switching power supply would experience a nice uptick in performance with the addition of a linear power supply.
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@rubicon15 I got a huge improvement using a Teddy Pardo LPS with my Lumin U2 mini (using Audio Sensibility adapter). |
My experience tracks with other posters on this thread. I moded my Bluesound Node 2i with a TeddyPardo LPS. The improvement was significant!! Because I like the BluOS operating software, and it's the only OS that supports the two streaming services I listen to (Amazon HD and Idagio) I'm doing all I can to improve the SQ of the Node2i. I also placed a Denafrips Hermes 12th between the Node and my DAC; it too made a difference, but not as much as the LPS. |
I just posted a question regarding the LHY linier PS a few days ago. I’m considering adding one to a Lumin U2 Mini. LHY has an internal filter and the external LPS bundle. I’ve done a fair amount of research but don’t know if the sonic improvements are worth the $389 price tag. The Mini has the same internal components as the U2, minus the LPS, dedicated USB, and optical connection. Theoretically, replacing the SPS on the Mini may improve its performance close to the $5K U2. Any thoughts? |
My experience concurs with others in that I’ve found that sensitive digital devices like DACs and streamers tend to respond favorably to linear power supplies that offer better filtering and regulation than cheap wall warts. These need not be expensive (e.g. <$100 USD) to be effective and deliver positive results. Just recently, Gabster posted a video in which he takes measurements from ten popular aftermarket options: Ten Power Supplies Tested |
Incremental steps can certainly add up. I’m not familiar with LHY, but I’ve added DIY linear regulated power supplies to my Hagerman Bugle phono stage, and to my Topping E30 DAC, and both have made a really nice improvement, mostly just a bit of refinement, but notable and worth it. Thinking about adding one to my active crossover next.
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This is something from INNUOS when I was inquiring about a PSU
The warranty could still be voided if a fault develops that is determined to be the result of the power supply source, so this is a general risk of any and all third-party power supplies. This email was one of the main factors of me getting the ZEN mini PSU. Still, I think it would be fun for someone to a/B the two. And see if there is a difference. |