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To use a line conditioner/surge protector or not??

Hi. I recently added a Panamax 1000 surge protector/line conditioner to my audio room. My system includes a Threshold Forte Model 3 SS amp, a Parasound P/LD preamp, Arcam and Cambridge Audio CD players, and Meadowlark Shearwater "Hot Rod" loudspeakers. I also sometimes run an RBH passive sub. I was receiving some low level radio signal through the wall socket (I don't have a tuner!!!), which was audible even when source material was playing. This problem was more noticeable when I used an AudioControl graphic equalizer in-line (I have since taken it out of the system). After running all my gear through the Panamax, the extraneous "reception" is now gone, but I seem to discern an audible drop in my upper-frequency response. I read one thread on another site that suggested one should not use line conditioners and surge protectors in high-end units. Any advice on the subject? Thanks.
klipschking
9 responses Add your response
mlawitm's avatar
mlawitm
67 posts
 
Do a search on this topic their are many threads on this topic. First off I would run a dedicated line. Then decide on a line conditioner. Me personally I use Foundation Research and have gotten great results.
valleyplastic
149 posts
 
Dedicated line should be first on list
klipschking OP
83 posts
 
Sorry for the ignorance, but when you say "dedicated line" I assume you mean have an electrician come out and run a dedicated line from the fuse panel (sorry, no breakers) to my audio room? Thanks.
valleyplastic
149 posts
 
Yes, and also seperate ground. This alone can eliminate the need for a LC. Here again, if your in a area like NY, Chicago a LC may also be needed where the electrical is not as clean as non congested areas.
klipschking OP
83 posts
 
Great. I'll do that next week. One other question: unlike my other gear, my (older) Threshold SS amp has a thin power cord; much like a lamp cord. Should I upgrade this? If so, where can I find a suitable cord and who can I have install it? Thanks again.
0thd
22 posts
 
I would love some expanding on this subject.

1. Does having a separate ground reduce or eliminate the possibility of damage from surges or a lightining strike? My instincts tell me no.

I ran a separate line using Virtual Dynamic's custom BC cable. Two twenty amp circuits with all new outlets and a separate 3/4" ground rod with number 4 ground wire. I had purchased Furman's top power conditioner, IT Reference 20 two years before. It saved my gear many times during the lightning storms in the mountains of Arizona.

I have all of my expensive analog gear running to the new circuit and outlets, not through the Furman.

I have lingering worry about a power surge or something stronger taking out my gear.

Many audiophiles suggest not using a power conditioner, but it sure provides some degree of safety. I'm still undecided as to whether I will use it or not.
drummermitchell's avatar
drummermitchell
262 posts
 
I have found and I'm sure alot of people here found,
that alot of conditioners limit power to the amps when the they need it.Some are limited to what the wall can give out.
A 15a circuit,20a ect.Music peaks seem to demand way more than 15a.I have been thru a couple of what I thought were as good as I could get.Then I was introduced to a Torus.
These are a Major upgrade give you way more amperage than the wall can give,total isolation,they cost,I believe if you want to
get all that you can from your gear and MUSIC,then you owe it to yourself and the music to check them out.My search and spending for conditioners is over,hmm now what do I want to upgrade.I guess It really depends on how far you
want to take it.The road definately goes on forever.
driver's avatar
driver
750 posts
 
Strictly as a surge protector I'm using 2 Brickwalls that run to separate dedicated lines. I can't tell any difference between before/after & neither can a few friends of mine who use them in their system.

There are more brands available & you can search surge protectors for further reading.
cyclonicman
693 posts
 
I use a Furman IT15 and it has saved my gear also. I don't find that it colors the sound of any of my electronics either. It sounds to me that your equipment is vulnerable with your current setup. I would consider using the IT Ref 20 again or unplugging your gear when your not home. Better yet, consult your local electrician!
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