FORUMS
I'm looking for advice on power accessories.
Just ran a dedicated line from the panel and see many people recommending "power conditioners", "audiophile-grade receptacles" and even silly "audiophile power cables".
I'm guessing that a lot of it is quasi-religious snake oil, but curious if there are any evidence-based rules I shoukd follow. 15 amp vs 20 amp? "Hospital grade receptacles"? Is the separate supply line even necessary?
Thank you all in advance.
1. Not necessary.
2. Not necessary.
3. Not necessary.
Do what makes you comfortable.
Thank you. I suspected as much.
Came across this article by John Atkinson:
"Installing a Dedicated AC Line | Stereophile.com" https://www.stereophile.com/features/991ac/index.html
Got a bit confused. Some reasonable advice at first, but when I read "The sonic effect was nothing short of stunning." I smiled and decided to ask around.
When it comes to installing a dedicated line, there are many variables outside of the audio/system that can affect its value. What else is on the original line in terms of noise generation and current draw? My comments are based on a base-line presumption that there is adequate current in the original line and that it is not corrupted by other devices. It not, it is entirely possible that adding a dedicated line and/or a filter/regulator can have real value.
Overall, what I advocate is that many things, such as the ones you mention, should not be presumed as necessary in an audio system unless/until one determines that there is a specific need in the specific situation. So, perhaps, my first reply should have been:
1. Not necessarily.
2. Not necessarily.
3. Not necessarily.
Thanks you.
I wenr ahead and ran a 20 amp line. Why not? Wiring cost me $50, plus $16 for a "hospital-grade" receptacle. The receptacle is clearly well-made and grops onto the plugs like a bulldog, if it doesn't provide any other benefits, no big loss. It is orange in clour, which is a littke odd, but it isn't visible behind the stereo stand anyway.
I just listened to Rachmaninov's 3rd piano concerto, and... no real "stunning" difference Mr. Atkinson reported. But now I have a label "Stero" on my electrical panel, and it makes me a real audiophile.
Some of the best things in life are free. Clean all electrical outlets and plugs in the house, including outlets and plugs not audio related like fridge, other appliances, lamps, computer, etc. This will produce better electrical contacts with less Noise throughout the house wiring, including the audio system since everything is connected to everything else at some point.
| Loudspeakers Amplification Digital Sources | |
Analog Sources Accessories Featured | |
Music Columns Retired Columns | |
Show Reports | |
Features Latest News Community | |
Resources Subscriptions |
© 2023 Stereophile
