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Need power conditioner advice. In reference to Furman/Tice/PS Audio/Richard Gray.

I currently have a Furman Elite 20 power conditioner that I use in a daisy chain method with other power conditioning devices (the Furman is where most devices are plugged into) and would like some advice to see if it is worth it to perhaps switch over to another power conditioner. I am really only looking for comparisons between these units mentioned below at this time. Keep in mind my funds are limited for an upgrade at this time.

If I do a large upgrade I've thought about both a Furman Reference 20i or an older PS Audio Power Plant Premier as they both seem to populate the used market with enough frequency.
Between these two units which would be the better upgrade for audio, which for video?; and if you can a brief elaboration would be of help. Just assume both are in very good shape internally (I know the Premier is an older model).It would take longer to save for these units, and would take away from some money I have been looking to perhaps spend on other things or save, so while I realize this may be the best upgrade route it comes at a cost (no pun intended).

For a more lateral cost exchange I've seen Tice Power Block III Signature units (the extra 3 outlets vs. the Elite's 13 would be nice), and Richard Gray 1200's pop up often enough to get me curious. I realize the Tice units are likely nearing or over 15 years of age, but for comparison purposes let's say the internals of these units are in very good shape.How do these compare to the Furman Elite 20 (or at least the Elite 15 if that is one's best point of reference) in both audio and video performance (separately); and of course any elaboration would help, even a brief one. I've only seen one mention of comparison between the Elite and a Richard Gray and it was split on performance between audio and video, so the more opinions the better.
I am using a tube amp and headphones for audio and an hd crt (with a PC source) for video if this helps.

My devices aren't a big power drain mind you, but I'm mainly looking for performance increases in terms of filtration and such (and possible extra outlets if the Tice is good enough) and not something that can take on more power.
Thank you for any and all help.
vze2r8xz
vze2r8xz OP
39 posts
 
Thank you again everyone for your advice.
I do have good power cables, so thankfully that is not an issue.
The Wirewold Spaceport is affordable, though not enough outlets for me. I have to deal with a bunch of video equipment along with audio, so 10 outlets on a conditioner minimum fills my needs.
Unfortunately the Chang only has 8 outlets as well, though the X Series H1 has enough (it's in the Furman 20i Reference price range though, so a bit expensive and another saver). The older CLS HT 1000 also has enough and one is on eBay, so I'm going to check out reviews on that (built in power cord though, but that's not a deal breaker).
Unfortunately in my location there aren't any audio dealers that I know of around, so I'm unable to try things out (I know Cable Company has a lending deal, but the 5% deposit is non-refundable).
dweller's avatar
dweller
3,744 posts
 
The last time I talked to the Cable Company, they explained that the 5% is put into your "account" and is applied to your next purchase. Things may have changed. I'd call and ask.
vze2r8xz OP
39 posts
 
Dweller, you're right the upfront loaner fee does apply to any purchase from the Cable Company or its' affiliates, I thought it was just the product one was testing. Thank you. They don't carry the Furman for me to test, which is a bummer.

I've narrowed my choice down between the Furman IT Reference 20i and the Synergistic Research Power Cell 10 SE. I figure it's best to not get a stop gap conditioner and go for one higher up on the chain.
I'm familiar with both companies' products, which is always nice, the latter comes with a power cord, so I can use my current cord on another component that needs an upgrade, but I'm not sure how the two conditioners compare. I've used SR cables, but not their power products, I'm familiar with Furman's power products though and their effect.
Any advice on this front is greatly appreciated.

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