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
68pete
1,002 posts
 

I would test it your self giving each trial a week before deciding

ffzz
26 posts
 

Since OP’s amp uses an EI power transformer which does isolation already, adding a separate isolation transformer may not give any benefit.

However, if the isolation transformer is wired in balanced manner, then it can help.

smoorenc's avatar
smoorenc OP
48 posts
 

My house power is generally very good. I can watch with my "sense" power meter installed. I also added the Zero Surge and connected my Tube Amp and Tube Pre Amp into the Zero Surge. I plugged everything else into the Torus TOT MAX conditioner. I ended up with adding a whole house surge just in case. I wouldn't have done that, but I also was installing my generator switching panel. I figured if I was already having the walls open I might as well add the whole house surge. Everything is fine and I appreciate all the help from everyone!! Seriously, it was an informative thread for me. Thanks, Scott 

erik_squires
16,152 posts
 

My house power is very good until it's not. 🤣

I live in the South where we are prone to severe lightning storms, though not quite as bad as Florida.  There is no way I run my gear without a top notch surge protector in line with it.  I also use a whole house surge protector as well. 

Plus, my experience having been in electrically noisy apartments is that my gear sounds better with a good conditioner than without it.

You can read more about my thoughts here:

 

https://pqltd.blogspot.com/2023/10/time-for-new-surge-suppression.html

smoorenc's avatar
smoorenc OP
48 posts
 

Nice write up Erik, I have the Zero Surge as mentioned and I have an Eaton Ultra whole house surge. I can't really change out my Eaton electrical panels. For my Network/NAS I use a "clean sinewave" APC UPS. The ones used for servers in data centers that won't even turn on, if the power isn't clean enough. No wall warts, all LPS signature series from Lab Swagman. I can't afford a PS Audio P15 or P20. 

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