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 7 responses by melbguy1

Hi Rushton, yeah I was actually looking at Lloyd's power filter & was impressed. He is a Mr Magoo-type character with some pretty unique and exceptional gear. His price all told is in the ballpark, so no problem there. My only query would be if he would be prepared to properly customise his standard US version to AU spec (incl: AU spec power outlets). I love his custom-made maple platform & valid points..no stone left unturned!
06-28-09: Teajay,
Hi Teajay, yeah I got a response from Running Springs today & it would have been too time consuming/costly to reconfigure their US version to AU spec. The reason I require AU plugs is that i've got some AU spec hard-wired gear (lcd & dvd) which need to run into an AU spec filter, but thanks for the recommendation; they make great units!
06-29-09: Gtfour45, I'm starting to agree with your logic & thanks for the advice btw. Also thanks Fafalion and to others for your recommendations so far!
Thanks Fafafion and to others for your recommendations so far! Also fafafion, why did you prefer the SA to Alan's design in your system?
Fafafion, I agree with your view that newest is not always best, and I must say Alan's products look impressive and he seems like a very knowledgable & decent guy. Thanks to everyone for your responses!
I had a good read up on the Running Springs company & their various models, in particular the Jaco. I can see why these guys don't bother with too much advertising and self-glorification. That company is the real deal & just do the business. Kudos to them.
Would anyone with experience with both the higher end RS filter AND Tesla Power Cell care to comment on their comparative audiophile performance? (I should state, in my case, I only need 8 outlets & it would be run on standard 240v/15 amp AU standard voltate - but with US pc's downstream). Which is the best for sound/unimpeded dynamics/black background for audio (mainly) and visual (secondary)?