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To plug in or not to plug in?

I just put a power conditioner in my system. I was planning on using it for my Transport, Dac and Pre-Amp. I didn't think it could handle my 300-watt stereo amp. However, after inspecting the inputs on the back of the unit I noticed it has a total rating of 1800 watts, and there is a receptacle dedicated for the amp, rated at 1100 watts. I can't imagine my amp ever drawing that much. So what do you think? Plug it in or leave it out.

On a personal note I am impressed with the unit thus far. It seemed to remove a certain harsh (bright) edge from the music at high volume. The instruments now appear more defined in the sound stage. The wife describes the sound as rich.
128x128glen

Showing 1 response by garfish

garfish
1,840 posts
 
I agree with Sean. I had a Power Conditioner rated for 1875 watts at any of its 16 outlets, and it worked quite well when I had less resolving components. But it always caused a "thin character" in music along with a reduction in dynamics when I plugged my McCormack DNA-2DX (300 wpc, 8 Ohm)into it.

As the quality of my components improved, and I installed a dedicated AC system, the Power Conditioner became a distinct liability, and I finally sold it and plugged everything directly into dedicated outlets. I asked Steve McCormack about power conditioners, and he just flatly said "plug your amp directly into the wall". Good Luck, and Cheers. Craig
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