2. amps-preamps
  3. 186364-105315

Not sure for power conditioner my amp or not.

Hi, I have an VTA ST-120 I built using KT88C’s for my 2 channel. I have all my equipment running through a Torus Power TOT MAX Toroidal Isolation. I have heard 2 different versions on what to do. As far as what to plug my amp into. The wall or the TOT’s? I know this isn’t a "power conditioner" such as PS Audio sells. Should I keep everything plugged into the TOT, so all my grounds are the same and it has the optional surge protection? Or straight into the wall? I tried the wall once, but didn’t hear a difference really. But I didn’t test for long and not sure I ever got to the point of drawing too much power from the amp. Which is the best way to leave it? Thanks! Scott

VTA ST-120

128x128smoorenc
facten
2,746 posts
 

@bikeboy52  I have a whole home surge protector and my electrician told me that it is advisable to still have surge protection units at critical equipment. Good advice as I have had lightening take out whole home protectors twice which you don't know has happened unless you take off the panel cover and check them every now and then.

facten
2,746 posts
 

I have had the opposite experience. in both of my systems I have found having the amps plugged into power conditioners improved the sound. May be it is the case due to the  "quality" or lack thereof of our local power.

xenolith's avatar
xenolith
120 posts
 

Agree that power conditioners aren't good for amplifiers.  However, balanced power supplies are good for amplifiers.

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,234 posts
 

@facten 

I have had the opposite experience. in both of my systems I have found having the amps plugged into power conditioners improved the sound. May be it is the case due to the  "quality" or lack thereof of our local power.

Agreed.

It may simply depend upon the specific conditioner in question. I use an AC balanced isolation transformer/ conditioner. Unquestionably the sound quality of the amplifier and every audio component is improved via it as compared to direct wall outlets (20 amp dedicated circuit). I believe that balanced AC power is a step upward.

Charles

johnnycamp5's avatar
johnnycamp5
122 posts
 

IME even for balanced power, the transformer ought to be pretty massive in order to not have it sound like it sucks the life out of the music.

I have a BPS (toroid at 2700VA) weighing approx. 80 lbs and it still pulled down my various power amps...

YMMV

More to discover