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Power conditioner/protection question

Hello,

I am assembling a budget system and I need an advice what power line protection or conditioner devices have to be included. The system is initially worth not more than $2000 of mostly used gear. The SS integrated amp (Classe CAP80, 100 wpc) will be the most power-consuming device in it. I live in a small town with (I believe) not many power spikes and irregularities but frequent thunderstorms and occasional power outages. I am not going to use the power protector for cables, phones etc.

Reading threads here I realized that spike protection is essential and the filtration of EMI/RFI noise is highly desired. So now I’m considering a PS Audio Duet surge/spike protector and power conditioner; few posters here said it improved sound quality which is an additional plus.

However, the Duet is around $200 (new). Would it be an overkill to have it for a $2000 system? Or should I buy something cheaper such as some Monster Cable products such as HTS 1000 Mkii surge/power conditioner? Or a Panamax MIP20-MAX Image Pro 20 amp Power Conditioner/ Surge Protector, here on sale for $65? Do I need a power conditioner at all? If not, will something like Furman PL-8II ($109) which is a filter and spike protection is enough?

Thanks for the help.
prophos

Showing 1 response by fpeel

fpeel
455 posts
 

If you want the peace of mind that surge protection brings and/or cannot install dedicated lines, then you could do a lot worse than a Duet.

In my situation moving one of the outlets closer to the system is not an option, so some kind of "extension cord" is required. I've tried a few alternatives and several years ago bought a VansEvers Clean Line (VECL) that has been in service since.

Recent system improvements brought to the forefront a previously subdued sharpness to "S" sounds on vocals. The character of this sibilance varied with each duplex of the VECL, but it was always there. Replacing the VECL with a Duet removed the sibilance with no loss of detail. If anything the Duet has added nuances of clarity and certainly hasn't subtracted anything.

BTW, my Duet only has a CD Player and tuner plugged into it. The amp is plugged into the wall. I do not know firsthand how it works with higher voltage equipment.
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