The main problem with power conditioners is filtering. Any impedance in series affects dynamics of the power amp. Linear power supply draws current in narrow peaks of big amplitude. Amplifier demand of 1A at given time will draw about 10A in narrow pulses from mains. Filters will cause big voltage drops and loss of dynamics. I use Furman Elite 20PFi conditioner, that in addition to filtering and good non-sacrificial over/under voltage protection has big capacitor that stores energy to provide up to 55A of peak current.
Power Conditioners
I'm looking at the Audioquest Powerquest3 and the Austere 7 Series Power. At this price point are the power conditioner sections a gimmick or can they have a meaningful impact. Is there a certain price, brand or tech which is generally the gold standard? Is power conditioning something you should only need to address if it's an actual problem (you can hear it) across your system or is it a best practice no matter and if so who is the "value" player in the space? I cringe at the thought of spending 4k on a power conditioner. Thanks for your comments.