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power line conditioners...

When I worked in high end audio, our guru placed a 120v-120v transformer (heavy duty -- 1000va) between the wall socket and the power amp in the system being auditioned. This was just before power line conditioners became available as audio system accessories.
I found a Sola 500va 120-120 transformer in the trash and tested it -- it worked. I tried it between the wall socket and my power amp. The sound stage opened up. Also, bass was tighter and more authoritative. I felt like the high end was also clearer. I am using a Dynaco st70 in triode mode driving Kef 102's, a dynaco PAS-3X, a VPI MK-IV turntable with an Alphason HRS-100 arm, various cartidges, and a Micromega Stage3 cd player. As my room is rather small, I don't feel the need for a sub-woofer now.
I wonder if any of you other members have any experience with PLC's, or Sola 120-120 transformers? And if you have any thoughts on why the sound is improved. Could it be simply reduction/elimination of voltage fluctuations coming from the wall, or are there other things happening like availability of stored energy in the transformer for musical peaks or transients?
Another question that I have is how are the audio-specific PLC's different than a 120-120 transformer? Are they different? Are they worth the extra money?
After hearing the differences that the Sola made, I am convinced that there is something to be gained from power line conditioning. I just don't understand it very well now, and would like to!
Cheers!
bicycle_man

Showing 2 responses by bicycle_man

bicycle_man OP
100 posts
 
Thanks for the replies! Very interesting information. And, it seems very reasonable about the hf hash being filtered out.

Kennyt, perhaps because the power supply in my st70 is the original the quad filtering cap is so far gone that filtering out garbage and fluctuations helps even with such limited current availability. I am currently modifying the ps with the SDS Labs power supply board.

By the way, I ride a 1981 Eddy Merckx with full Campagnolo Super Record. I sometimes swap the derailleurs out with Nuovo Record. I recently had it restored by Tom Kellogg in the Molteni paint scheme. He did a wonderful job on the bike! I do my own mechanics, and build my own wheels. Brazing in a new headtube was beyond my capabilities, so off it went to Mr. Kellogg.

Thank you, again, Kennyt and Al for your thoughtful replies!
bicycle_man OP
100 posts
 
Al,
Don't worry, I thought there was nothing at all derogatory about your post.
I think that audio designers back then had a different philosophy and set of priorities in mind than those of today. The power supply of the st70 is simple and not very robustly designed. I think it uses a simple pi filter solely using capacitors and with not much capacitance at that; it seems not meant to handle much fluctuation coming from the outlet.
I am new to this web site and am really enjoying it! Thank you everyone for your replies! I am enjoying the education!
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