Step Up/Down Transformers - Good or Bad?

Glrtrgi, If you are going to live in the States for an extended period of time it might be worth having an electrician install a 240 volt line for your Euro amps.

USA homes already have 240 volt but typically limited to power electric cook range, clothes dryers and heater-furnace.

I've successfully used a pair of 240 volt runs in my stereo system for more than a decade with no issues.

The 240v line solution works, but kids tend to stick things in outlets at some point in their life & the penalty for doing this can be much higher. Good luck!

Remember that 240V in USA is twin 120 volt runs. This is simply two of the same lines that already exist in other parts of your home. So, unless your kids are especially gifted at getting things into sockets they are likely to get 120 (one leg).

Besides that, the transformer being suggested by others has the same liability as it produces 240 volt as well.

The plus of the transformer is it can move with you to another home. The plus for dedicated 240V line is better sound (in my opinion) and probably cost less. Remember too, future buyers of your home can split that 240 back into twin dedicated 120 volt lines to run whatever they please.

It's not a bad thing to have.

Detlof have answered the same way I would have. I don't like transformers hanging on amps.

In my system I use one isolation transformer that drops (USA) 120 Volt to (Japan) 100 volt to supply the motor controller for my Technics MK3. Even though it's a simple job, I opted for a large transformer rated 10 times over, in hope it would not damage performance.

As Detlof said, transformers typically damage dynamics and I've had my share here for trial.

Glrtrgi. After you've had awhile to listen with the transformer why not do a test. I assume you have a clothes dryer in your place? Run a cord from that outlet to the amp and see if that changes the sound for the better.

If not, you have the wrong amp regardless of power and should look to possibly change. If the dryer outlet (220 volt) solves the grate on your ears problem, the transformer is not suitable.

The dryer cord should not be expensive and if you need additional length you can use Romex to hook up. If you're not comfortable with such things get a pro to help with the experiment. Even if you have to pay a bit it's better than getting shocked and better than being angry over your sound and not knowing what's the right direction.