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  3. 1246188460

Which is the best high end passive power filter?

Hi members, I am currently seriously researching the best passive power 8 point filters & would like to know firstly if there is a passive filter which unquestionably improves the sound of high end audio systems without strangling dynamics, or imparting a sonic "signature" of it's own? And secondly, as I live in Australia; is either available in Aust-spec, or is sold by a company which is likely to offer the board in that spec?

An obvious front runner at the moment is Shunyata's new Hydra 8v2 which offer the Hydra in Australa. I have heard the new model 8v2 is slightly better than the previous Vray which is a big wrap.

I should say I am sceptical about power filters. An audiophile friend of mine who happens to have owned a hifi store in Australia for more than 25 years said he never heard a power filter (in Australia) which didn't have a negative impact on the sound, including some very high gear including (from memory) a Burmester active filter, so I would need to be convinced to take the plunge.

So is the new Hydra 8v2 the best option, or maybe even a stretch to save for the new Vray v2?

(Thanks in advance for your ideas)
melbguy1

Showing 2 responses by hotbird

hotbird
61 posts
 
Forget the Sound Application (which seems to be based on dated technology and still looks the same year after year). According to Norm (his moniker is Tbg in audiogon), the new king of plc's is the Tesla PowerCell. Norm has used Sound Application, Walker Velocitor, Acoustic Revive, Isoclean...et all, so his opinions are based on experience rather than hearsay. So save your bucks and try the much less expensive Powercell.

the Synergistic Research Tesla PowerCell

And if you want to rid of more noise, try the Troy Tripoint as reviewed below

Experiences with Tripoint Audio Apollo

Tripoint Troy: Can one live without a kidney?

I just hope the kidney can have a cheaper edition ;-)
hotbird
61 posts
 
For start, I think I can agree with you is that Shunyata is highly colored, and it's heyday as a leader in power conditioning products are quite over in some countries. As for Sound Application, check out what Tbg(Norm) has to say about it.

Sound Application line conditioner experience?

Reminds me of the never-ending upgrades of Power Enhancers by another brand. The next version is always better... ;-)
At least that brand doesn't really bite your wallet
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