Least Expensive Power Conditioner/Surge Protector That Won't Worsen Sound


I have an old Shunyata Hydra 6 that I'm sending off to Shunyata to repair. In the meantime, I'm curious - What's the least expensive power conditioner/surge protector that won't worsen the sound? 

 

I've already discovered that plugging my integrated directly into the wall sounds the best. But I have source components. I have liked the Shunyata, but just in case they're not able to get it back to like new shape, what are your thoughts? (I tried numerous PLCs at the time I bought it almost 20 years ago and I thought it, by far, sounded better than any other one I auditioned in my system, and that included the Hydra 8).

 

I see many users who have reported worsening sound when using the Audioquest PQ2 and PQ3.

 

Something like a Panamax PM 5300 or 5400?  Or the Furman Elite 15?

 

And what is the danger of under-voltage?

analogj

Does anyone know the difference between the Audioquest Niagara 1200 @ $999 and the LOW-Z version @ $1299

@adasdad ...you probably know the answer to that question....I'm interested in upgrading from the   PQ2

U.K. produced Puritan PSM156, it works and is much better value than anything else.

For a few hundred dollars less than the Puritan PSM156 is the PSM136 - which also works wonderfully.  I doubt you'll go wrong with either model.

@adasdad But I'm wondering if you could elaborate as to what you heard regarding the difference between the two. I understand how they're marketed, but in terms of rubber meeting the road, what differences did you hear, if you articulate them.

 

By the way,  I thought I read that Garth did design the PQ2 and 3 as well. 

 

I can say this much that thus far, after a few days, that the images, running through the Panamax m5400-pm, are clearly less juicy. This may improve with break-in. I wouldn't be happy if it stayed at this sound quality.