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Step down transformer (220V to 100/110V) or buy 220V version of Shindo preamp

I really need to buy a Shindo preamp. a) Should I go for a original 220V Shindo preamp (harder to obtain, no local Shindo dealer here) or  b) get a 110/100V version from USA/Japan and use a step-down transformer c) Or get the Shindo dealer to alter the 110V to 220V.

questions:
1) At this level, is there sound degradation if I use a step down transformer?
2) The Shindo dealer will change the 110V to 220V but it will be done by a US tech not Shindo, I wonder if it will lead to some loss. Since soldering and change of resistor will happen. If that's the case I might just buy the 110V version from him.

Any thoughts on using step down transformer in general, does it lead to sound degradation?
essrand
erik_squires
16,004 posts
 
Other brands of balanced power include Furman and Tripp Lite, but the latter is usually the inexpensive kind.

There is nothing at all wrong with autotransformers by the way. They just don't have the noise blocking of a fully balanced unit.

Best,

E
lucidear
88 posts
 
Good info.
thanks again
ayc868
2 posts
 

I am confused.   why 
step down transformer will degraded sound if my source power come from $6000 USD power conditioner?

do I still need noise blocking of a fully balanced unit?

carlsbad2's avatar
carlsbad2
1,447 posts
 

@ayc868 A transformer theoretically reproduces in the output all  the noise in the input.  In practice, not quite but I don't recommend a transformer as a power conditioner.

Hopefully your $6000 power conditioner is a rectifier/inverter and doesn't try to "filter" the noise out.

Jerry

imhififan's avatar
imhififan
2,150 posts
 

Many Shindo preamp utilize 100V-120V dual primary winding, it can be configured for 100V, 120V, 220V or 240V mains voltage.

 

 

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