Power Strip Question - PLEASE HELP


I need to power my audio system and various electronics from a single duplex outlet. Although this is less than ideal, I need some advice on how to avoid degrading sound quality.

Essentially, I want to buy 2 power strips for the duplex outlet. The first will be used exclusively for my audio system, while the second will be used exclusively for other electronics. Here is the breakdown:

1) Wiremold L10320 Power Strip (9 outlets, 6 foot cord):
- Naim Nait 5i-2 integrated amplifier
- Naim Nait 5i-2 cd player
- Pro-Ject Tube Box II phono pre-amplifier
- Pro-Ject Debut II TT (weak link, I know)

2) XYZ Power Strip:
- Alarm clock
- Phone charger
- External HD
- Laptop computer

My main concern is with the second power strip. I'm worried that these common electronics, being powered on the same line, might degrade the sound quality of my audio system.

Is there any way to limit the interference of these electronics, thus preserving sound quality? For instance, would a power strip with a surge protector limit the interference that these electronics may produce?

If possible, I would like some recommendations for power strips from Allied Electronics, since I will be buying the Wiremold from them (http://www.alliedelec.com/).

I don't have any strict requirements, but I would prefer an inexpensive unit (<$10, if possible) with a short cord.

Thank you so much for the help!
jferreir

Showing 6 responses by jferreir

I'm aware that this setup is less than ideal. However, only one duplex outlet is accessible, so I will have to make due at the moment.

If it matters, only a select number of electronics will be operational on the second power strip at a given time. For instance, I may have the external HD and phone charger plugged in, with neither of them turned on. Would this help reduce the interference?

I don't mind spending a bit more if it will improve sound quality, but the second power strip should not be more than $30, as that's what I'll be paying for the Wiremold.

Please keep the suggestions coming!
Interesting suggestion, but my DIY skills peaked at the age of 10 when I built a birdhouse. I seriously doubt I would be able to better that performance.

Anyway, I want to understand why these particular conditions are so poor. Is it the electrical demand of my audio equipment, or the multitude of consumer electronics? Hypothetically speaking, if I were to remove/relocate everything except for the audio components, would the Wiremold power strip be sufficient to allow my system to 'sing'?

One alternative would be to use an extension cord on a different outlet, and run that extension cord along the perimeter of the room. This would allow me to power the consumer electronics from a different duplex outlet that is obstructed by furniture.

I should probably mention that my current accommodations are temporary, which is why I have to deal with such poor listening conditions. I'm not at liberty to re-arrange furniture either. Grrr!

Finally, for shits and giggles, this is the system I'm aiming for:
- Naim Nait 5i-2 integrated amp
- Naim Nait 5i-2 CD player
- Pro-Ject Tube Box II phono pre-amp
- Clearaudio Emotion CMB (currently have Pro-Ject Debut II)
- Harbeth P3-ESR
- Naim speaker cables
- Custom interconnect

I already have a name for the system, too! I like to call it 'The Early Analytic'. I settled on this for two reasons. First, this will be my first proper two-channel system. Second, I was writing a paper on Frege (German) and Russell (British) at the time I was planning it. So, what do you think? Catchy, or do I just have too much time on my hands?

And yes, please get back to me about the power strips (haha)!
I've been told multiple times to avoid power conditioners/surge protectors for audio equipment as they will degrade sound quality.

Is there some place where I can get an objective analysis? Perhaps an well respected article, or something of that sort? It's difficult to separate truth from fiction on these forums.

I don't mean to suggest that you're wrong, I just need some verification.
Indeed, but certain compromises are better than others. Why do you suggest running a second power strip from the first?

The Wiremold is strictly a power distributor, so there is no circuit breaker, filter, or anything of that sort. As a result, the component plugged into the first receptacle will receive the cleanest power. Would this achieve the same result that you're alluding to?

Again, I will state my two remaining questions:

1) If the non-audio electronics are plugged into a separate power strip, but are not operational (i.e. off), will they still cause interference and degrade the sound quality of my system?

2) If I use an extension cord running from a different duplex outlet to power my non-audio electronics, will this resolve the issue?

If I'm not at liberty to reorganize furniture, then hiring an electrician to rewire the room is definitely not an option. Remember, I'm trying to make due with what I have. Thanks again.
Thank you for the suggestion, but the PS Audio PowerPlant Premier is, oh, about $1120 USD more than the Wiremold L1032. That is way, way beyond my means.

I have $100 CDN max. No exceptions. If I'm going to spend that kind of money (which I don't have), I'd rather upgrade my $250 turntable. Please keep in mind that I'm already over budget. At this phase of my 'audio project', power distribution is a minor tweak and nothing else.

Now, what's up with surge protection? Everyone on the Naim forum seems to be of a different opinion. I seriously can't get a straight answer. Can someone please explain the science behind it all in idiot-proof terms? Thanks!
Well, after much consideration and conflicting advice, I've decided on the following...

I will purchase the Wiremold L10320 for use with my audio system. This specific power strip has no additional performance limiting features and it's recommended by Naim. Although a power transformer would be ideal, performance-wise, it's simply not practical given my budget.

I will have to experiment with my non-audio gear to see which setup sounds best. I've simply accepted the fact that with a budget of less than $100, some compromises in SQ will have to be made. That said, my audio system isn't even assembled yet - still waiting on the Harbeth P3ESRs - so I need to keep things in perspective. Besides, I'm sure the quality of my TT will be more of a limiting factor, SQ wise, than will the quality of my power source.

Either way, thank you for the multitude of suggestions!