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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
fafafion
190 posts
 
Here are my recommendations:

1.Sound Applications Referance.The best IMO,I personally prefer it to the Walker's Velocitor.Much more quiter background..

2.My friend [using all tubes amplifications]really love the power wing made by Alan Krafton;http://www.audioexcellenceaz.com/powerwing.htm

I have borrowed it ,in my referance system,I still prefer The SA.BTW I use Alan's cable cooker and simply love it ,and Alan is such a wonderful man,just write to him.

3.Acoustic Revive Ultime ain't too bad either ,but I think not in the same class as the above too.

4.As far as Shunyata is concerned the Hydra v2 is SIGNIFICANTLY better than the original ,to my ears.The problem I have with Shunyata ...(and most power conditioners ),is it has a certain 'flavour'...add up its sonoc characteristic.It might not be a bad thing if your system need some flavouring,but they are not for me....

Following the Ashes,Mate?
fafafion
190 posts
 
Correction,The Shunyata Vray V2.haven't had thje chance to listen to Hydra V2 yet
gtfour45
39 posts
 
Hi Melbguy,

I'm in Melbourne too. I would suggest you have a hard think about the requirement for Australian outlets on whatever you decide on. Most US manufacturers are happy enough to put an Aust. plug on their cords but the outlets on a conditioner is a big ask.

I don't know of any Aust. pattern AC outlet of remotely audio quality. (If you do please let me know so I can use one on my wall.)

My opinion - necessity dictates that Australian audiophiles go to all US connectors downstream of the conditioner.

Just get one Australian terminated cord from the wall to the conditioner.
melbguy1 OP
1,438 posts
 
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!
melbguy1 OP
1,438 posts
 
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!
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