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Least Expensive Power Conditioner/Surge Protector That Won't Worsen Sound

I have an old Shunyata Hydra 6 that I'm sending off to Shunyata to repair. In the meantime, I'm curious - What's the least expensive power conditioner/surge protector that won't worsen the sound? 

 

I've already discovered that plugging my integrated directly into the wall sounds the best. But I have source components. I have liked the Shunyata, but just in case they're not able to get it back to like new shape, what are your thoughts? (I tried numerous PLCs at the time I bought it almost 20 years ago and I thought it, by far, sounded better than any other one I auditioned in my system, and that included the Hydra 8).

 

I see many users who have reported worsening sound when using the Audioquest PQ2 and PQ3.

 

Something like a Panamax PM 5300 or 5400?  Or the Furman Elite 15?

 

And what is the danger of under-voltage?

analogj
dgluke
100 posts
 

If they are doing it right, parts are marked up 5 times in manufacturing. The other costs you mentioned should be marked up 3 times, including labor. Then, that price is doubled twice before the point of purchase. The margins in audio are what makes it all go round. 

bobby1945
79 posts
 

I avoid using the AQ Niagra high current outputs and now plug my amps directly into the wall socket- Proves to be sonically inferior through the AQ Niagra

To me this unit was a total waste of money .

rockaway07866's avatar
rockaway07866
5 posts
 

Furman Elite 15PFIs - good units, and you can find these used at good prices at Audiogon, US Audiomart, and HiFi Shark.

lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 

+1 Brick Wall (same design as ZeroSurge). I own the 8 outlet unit for use with source components, noise-floor is greatly lowered. Circuit breaker, RFI/EMI filtering, series-mode, no MOVs 

However, this conditioner/surge protection will limit current to amps. 

ronboco
839 posts
 

I use a Nordost QB8 with surge protection in a dedicated sub panel. 

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