I agree with the OP.
I have the Olympus minimus and now the Powerus Challenger.
The upgrade from my previous reference power conditioner (which I thought was really good) is staggering.
Macdude,
What was your previous power conditioner?
Entreq Silver Tellus grounding/earthing system
Hi A'goners, I'd like to tell you all a little about this component which has taken noise elimination in my system to a whole new level.
I run a Trans Fi Salvation/Terminator tt/arm, ESCCo modded Zu 103 cart into a Tom Evans Audio Design Groove Plus SRX phono, Emm Labs CDSA SE, Hovland HP200/Radia pre/pow, and Zu Definitions Mk4 spkrs. This set up is (now) effortlessly dynamic and transparent.
I live in a semi industrial area with broadband on in every apartment, internet booster stations and light engineering nearby.
It became apparent some years ago that apart from the hours of midnight to 5am, I could not rely on a good sound, and research led to conclusion that mains borne noise was likely the culprit.
This led to my first partial success, the installation of the Burmester 948 mains conditioner/filter 7 years ago. This resulted in an immediate reduction in noise and increase in transparency/delicacy ie a major improvement, even in daylight hours. BUT it became apparent over time that dynamics were seriously pinched, and the conclusion I've correctly drawn is that peak current demand was restricted by the unit compromising the power amp output.
This led to my next upgrade, and now real progress: an 8kVA pro studio Westwick 8K balanced power transformer. Now I got all the previous improvements with no current restrictions to the power amp - transparency AND NOW dynamics in spades.
But as with all things audio, the awareness of the Entreq grounding/earthing system piqued my interest further in eliminating mains issues. Entreq are a Swedish audio engineering company with a couple of decades experience, and provide a variety of mains and interconnect products.
The Entreq Silver Tellus is a wooden box, the size and weight of a small power amp. It contains inert minerals and a grounding plate. It's a passive device ie NOT powered from the mains, and sits adjacent to the system. In my system, one Apollo Eartha interconnect runs from one of 4 terminals on the back of the Tellus, to an unused input of my preamp. It is possible to connect another 3 components to a single Tellus.
In effect, it provides an ADDITIONAL earth/ground to the system, NOT replacing the existing protective earth. This then provides an uninterrupted drain for RF/EMI/other hash from the system to the Tellus.
I was expecting a minor improvement at most. What I wasn't expecting was a transformation of the system.
Firstly, soundstage deepens dramatically, so much so that the stage seems totally independent of the spkrs. Phenomenal reduction in noise really enhances the blackness between notes, and brings micro detail to the fore. This reduction in noise has the amazing side benefit of relegating vinyl surface noise way into the background. The overall effect is a fantastic increase in dynamics and transparency, taking what balanced power brings to the party and sending it off the scale.
Vitally, the nature of the system sound hasn't changed, since the Silver Tellus enhances performance, doesn't change it; in many ways is the best system wide upgrade to optimise performance I could make.
My conclusion from the last 7 years is that noise is the major limiting factor in my system, and the installation of Westwick 8k balanced power ($7000) and Entreq Silver Tellus/ Apollo Eartha grounding/earthing ($3000) has led to improvements that even a total overhaul of the system and buying new at 5x the cost could not surpass.
If anyone is getting frustrated with their system, address the mains first before you go down the merry-go-round of endless component upgrades.
In the UK, Kog Audio are the go-to guys for Entreq. I have no affiliation, just an extremely content audiophile, now so much closer to the end point on improving my system.
I run a Trans Fi Salvation/Terminator tt/arm, ESCCo modded Zu 103 cart into a Tom Evans Audio Design Groove Plus SRX phono, Emm Labs CDSA SE, Hovland HP200/Radia pre/pow, and Zu Definitions Mk4 spkrs. This set up is (now) effortlessly dynamic and transparent.
I live in a semi industrial area with broadband on in every apartment, internet booster stations and light engineering nearby.
It became apparent some years ago that apart from the hours of midnight to 5am, I could not rely on a good sound, and research led to conclusion that mains borne noise was likely the culprit.
This led to my first partial success, the installation of the Burmester 948 mains conditioner/filter 7 years ago. This resulted in an immediate reduction in noise and increase in transparency/delicacy ie a major improvement, even in daylight hours. BUT it became apparent over time that dynamics were seriously pinched, and the conclusion I've correctly drawn is that peak current demand was restricted by the unit compromising the power amp output.
This led to my next upgrade, and now real progress: an 8kVA pro studio Westwick 8K balanced power transformer. Now I got all the previous improvements with no current restrictions to the power amp - transparency AND NOW dynamics in spades.
But as with all things audio, the awareness of the Entreq grounding/earthing system piqued my interest further in eliminating mains issues. Entreq are a Swedish audio engineering company with a couple of decades experience, and provide a variety of mains and interconnect products.
The Entreq Silver Tellus is a wooden box, the size and weight of a small power amp. It contains inert minerals and a grounding plate. It's a passive device ie NOT powered from the mains, and sits adjacent to the system. In my system, one Apollo Eartha interconnect runs from one of 4 terminals on the back of the Tellus, to an unused input of my preamp. It is possible to connect another 3 components to a single Tellus.
In effect, it provides an ADDITIONAL earth/ground to the system, NOT replacing the existing protective earth. This then provides an uninterrupted drain for RF/EMI/other hash from the system to the Tellus.
I was expecting a minor improvement at most. What I wasn't expecting was a transformation of the system.
Firstly, soundstage deepens dramatically, so much so that the stage seems totally independent of the spkrs. Phenomenal reduction in noise really enhances the blackness between notes, and brings micro detail to the fore. This reduction in noise has the amazing side benefit of relegating vinyl surface noise way into the background. The overall effect is a fantastic increase in dynamics and transparency, taking what balanced power brings to the party and sending it off the scale.
Vitally, the nature of the system sound hasn't changed, since the Silver Tellus enhances performance, doesn't change it; in many ways is the best system wide upgrade to optimise performance I could make.
My conclusion from the last 7 years is that noise is the major limiting factor in my system, and the installation of Westwick 8k balanced power ($7000) and Entreq Silver Tellus/ Apollo Eartha grounding/earthing ($3000) has led to improvements that even a total overhaul of the system and buying new at 5x the cost could not surpass.
If anyone is getting frustrated with their system, address the mains first before you go down the merry-go-round of endless component upgrades.
In the UK, Kog Audio are the go-to guys for Entreq. I have no affiliation, just an extremely content audiophile, now so much closer to the end point on improving my system.
111 responses Add your response
Too bad US audiophiles don't really know about Entreq. The Powerus Challenger 3V is a very fine piece of gear. One of the best investments I've made in this hobby, and has completely redefined what I thought was possible from a "power conditioner". It's ability to unearth the music on red book CD is just amazing. Completely effortless and dynamic. There's so much more to red book CD than we ever imagined. |
Simon, do post your thoughts here. I don't want user experiences to be too limited to just me and a few others. I still contend Entreq grounding is a revelation, that uniquely of all major upgrades, leaves the voicing/character of one's system UNCHANGED, but maxes attributes like low noise, stability of image, texture and low fatigue, so that the voicing/character is wholly strengthened . |
Simon, interesting link. I've actually plumped for the top of the range Westwick 8kVA unit, custom built w/10 o'l's hard wired, meaning I can use it as in effect an over specced distribution block. It's 65kg+, and 8kVA, so not far off Mike Lavigne's 10kVA Equi=Tech. I wonder if you'd heard this would you have plumped for the Equi? No sweat, it sounds like it's been wholly positive. So, does your Equi have sockets hard wired into the back of it? If it does, grounding it via a mimics or Tellus might still not be the way to go. My final configuration is to use a Silver Tellus, up to 8 Apollo leads from my components, then to plug an Entreq Cleanus into a spare socket on the Westwick, and in effect ground this combination back to the S. Tellus via another Apollo, audition early next year. So, my strong recommendation is to either a-b Minimus v Tellus (pref Silver) w/an Apollo from whatever equates to your preamp, and take it from there. You're welcome to pop over and chill out if you're visiting London and have the time. PM me. |
Hi spirit, I was only going to use the Minimus for a trial because it's conveniently small. I assume that, if Entreq is any good I ought to be able to hear an effect even it is less than the Tellus. Is that your experience? I'm happy to try and follow your recommendtions. I thnk my local dealer has both Tellus and Minimus, silver versions I think. My story of Equi-Tech vs. Westwick is told in a post of mine (I am "Simon C") here: http://forum.hificritic.com/yaf_postst1420p3_Has-anyone-experience-increased-pace-from-reduced-mains-impedance.aspx#post17148 I'm happy to discuss further, if you like. SLC. |
Hi S, I wouldn't try connecting to the EquiTech just yet, I'll check w/the Entreq dealer on this. My biggest bang for $/£ was grounding my tube preamp. Maybe go for your headphone amp first? Worth experimenting on going thru the different options if you can hold onto the stuff for long enough, you can get varying results depending on the individual system/how "dirty" a particular component is. Silver Minimis is deffo a worse option than Silver Tellus, since the additional grounding mass in latter is really advantageous, and ability to hook up multiple components l/t is more flexible than just the max of two poss w/Minimus. Btw, what was your issue w/the Westwick? In the UK there is little chance to hear Equi=Tech, Westwick is the only high end way to go. |
Hi, I'm about the try Entreq and, like you (spiritofmusic), I have balanced power supplying my system. This is an Equi-Tech 2 kVA unit. I briefly had a Westwick - it's a long story! So, the places I can connect the Entreq to are: the grounding terminal on the back of the Equi-Tech; an unused digital input or output on my dCS player; the unused input on my Sennheiser headphone amp; or an unused input of my power amp. What's your recommendation for what I should try first? I'll probably borrow a Silver Minimus from the local dealer. Thanks, SLC. |
11-08-14: Cerrot Based on Dragon_vibe's experience, sounds more like a herbal supplement to me unless something has changed. Dragon, did you figure things out? |
Tbg, I've been in quite a bit of correspondence w/Lloyd re this, and I'm sure he can answer your q. Indeed he runs both Entreq and Troy. Entreq signal grounding and Troy chassis grounding. I believe he feels they complement each other, bringing different attributes to the table. Imho, it is somewhat overkill to run both - by all means audition both, but choose one. For everyone's info, the US Stillpoints dealer are the go-to guys for Entreq trials. |
12-25-13: Dragon_vibe Things are not so simple are they? Yes, a Toyota is a better "value" than a Porsche, but there is truly no substitute for a Porsche. I would still recommend looking into Tripoint (assuming you can get a refund). I have heard it. Very impactful. I hope to snag one in the not too distant future. |
Dragon, that's not so good. In all things audio YMMV, grounding just like anything else. I personally don't spend big $s/£s on anything w/out home demo/sale or return guaranteed. I'd recommend Goldeneraguy to def wait for trial facilities in the US before he considers trying it at home. What are the circumstances of your exposure to Entreq? |
Hi Spirit, My questions havs already been asked.These were: If I find the product[s]do not benefit my system, are they returnable for a 100% refund and what is the freight cost shipped to my zip code I have not received a reply. At this point I am leaning toward waiting until a distributor is established here in the US Thank you for trying to put this together |
Goldeneraguy, a US dealer should be able to provide at the v.least a demo service/sale-or-return. I do know that Fraser set up similar sale-or-return for a client outside the UK, he's a 5 Star guy in this regard. I'm confident you'll "get" the effects of Entreq grounding - once "heard" it can't be dismissed. |
Goldeneraguy, re analog, this was the only area not initially impvd by earthing. My Tom Evans Groove Plus SRX phono stage/Zu Denon 103R/Transfiguration Orpheus was muddied by use of Entreq, but grounding it's replacement, the Soundsmith Straingauge, via the SG200 energiser box, has been wholly positive. YMMV, obv. Do contact Fraser Robertson via the Kog Audio UK website, to see if he can help you further, and put you the way of their US dealer, I believe one may be being set up. |
Goldeneraguy, I am not an analog guy at all...CD only. I do have a friend who uses his Tripoint Troy with his TT with great improvement. I do not know how he connects it. Perhaps to the phono stage? If I can find out anything from my dealer, I will. The good thing is just about everyone I know here who has tried this on their amp, preamp...has enjoyed it, and many seem to have kept it. So you should hopefully hear improvements even for hooking it up to the other elements of your system...the distributor here actually does not recommend hooking up as much as you can...but to do so judiciously and not over-egging it. Hope that helps. |
Spiritofmusic,Lloydelee21, I'm ready to pull the trigger I just have no idea how to place Entreq into my all analog system. TW Turntable Tron Syren Pre with phono stage deHavilland Aries 845 mono amps. I have read quite a bit with Entreq working with digital gear but nothing as positive with analog so I'm stumpt.I wouldn't want it shipped accoss the pond only for me to be disappointed and return it. Spirit I read your post stating it worked with one cartridge but not the other. Lloyd have you had success with analog gear ?? Thanks guys,enjoy |
SpiritofMusic: interesting. I am a very happy balanced power user and my local dealer has been trying to pursuade me to try the entreq "earth boxes". I will have to have a go with them now. You've pushed me over the edge! My balanced power experience was that it seemed to remove edge from the treble while at the same time increasing detail and naturalness. Bass definition also improved. It was a step closer to reality. I was surprised. By the way. I have a spare Westwick 2kVA unit for sale. It's a long story how I ended up with two (my other one is an Equi=Tech), I'm happy to tell it if anyone is interested. Simon C. |
Msom, What order did you end up with on your QB8? I've the following equipment - what order would yo recommend I plug it into the QB8? - Meridian MS600 streaming endpoint (with switching power supply) - Simaudio 650D dac/transport - Simaudio P8 pre amp - Simaudio W8 power amp - 2 Nordost Qv2 units Thanks! Cam |
Paul, I believe Entreq works at the level of the signal ground (hence the RCA leads that insert into spare terminals), Tripoint Troy works on the chassis ground (hence the leads that screw into the component bodywork). Please post your experiences with your friend's Entreq rig. It's a little hard to do a simple a-b dem since the effects of Entreq take some time to bed in, even when reinstalled after a short break, but hopefully you'll get a flavour of what it has to offer. Together with 8kVA balanced power, in my system, Entreq grounding has been totally transformative. |
Paul, I'm not privy to what's inside, but from what I can gather it is a combination of silver and copper plates and tightly packed minerals. Unsure how it all pertains to the neutral, earth and positive. The UK Entreq rep may fill you in further, email [email protected]. I believe this all acts as a sink to balance impedances across those components grounded to it. Enjoy your experience with it at your friend's place. I live in E. London, so if you'd like a second audition, feel free to contact me. |
Greetings Gents.. The question I have is what is in that box??? Any thoughts apart from what is listed above? I am visiting a friend tomorrow near north London who also has the Entreq, so will investigate further then, he is also a convert, and the owner of a very high end system. With the connections by RCA, I am assuming that the GND (outer) is the only connection, i.e. the pin left bare? My amplifiers and DAC etc, all incorporate GND LIFT switches, and GND posts. The designer is very aware of the importance of correct grounding, and designs all of his components to be used with one single reference to mains GND - recommending the pre-amp GND LIFT to remain connected, but to lift all others. Of course, the IC's between components are the link. In my own cables, and found that by using this system, increasing the csa of the return (gnd) had a beneficial effect, similar to what has been described by Spirit above. For the record, I have a dedicated feed direct to my system, PS Audio P10 for all but my ZL-200 mono power amps. I used balanced/filters etc in the past. I believe many systems are compromised by lack of attention to the GND issue, by designers and users, and will be an area of development over the forthcoming years without doubt. Regards, Paul. |
D Vibe, I'm just about to install an 8kVA 85kg Westwick 8k balanced power transformer. Together with Entreq grounding, my system has been taken to a whole new level. The cost of these upgrades is equivalent to a pre amp/pow amp upgrade in the scheme of my system, but the improvements go well beyond a simple component change. Basically, if you like what your system is doing, this is a great way to go if you want to improve things to the max. |
Yeh im looking into Entreq, I just purchased the Elgar 3006 Industrial AC line conditioner. Grounding tweak is next but I wont even bother researching into the Tripoint. Its crazy price for a grounding conditioner. I guess his charging those prices as not many grounding conditioners yet available on the market hence no real competition. Give it few years. High End audio is full of copy cats and someone else will come up with them at lower cost. |
Dragon, I concur that the prices can seem totally crazy and unjustifiable. In the UK at least, Entreq prices are c. a third of Tripoint Troy, hence easier to swallow. I have no experience of Tripoint, but both it and Entreq are trying to address the same shortcomings in systems. All I can say to you is that the effects of Entreq grounding are beyond spectacular in my system, so much so that spending 2-3x the price of my system as is on component upgrades I don't believe would result in the same positives. And I'm someone who's walked away from other expensive tweaks, finding more than a hint of snake oil about them. Unlike a lot of these, which spout "quantum" effects babble (was this term and "organic" ever so abused?), the principles behind grounding are rooted firmly in traditional electronics engineering and physics principles. It's just that other than Entreq and Tripoint, v. few are actually following thru on these. |
I was researching into The Tripoint. Dam those prices seem like this guy has put some magical potions in those special African wood boxes. what's the magical formula? Must be some nano technology with over 20 years R&D to justify that price tag. Im sure it works very well but 15000 dollars is no joke for a ground conditioner!!! |
I have had the Entreq Silver Tellus and the upgraded Atlantis in my system (with Atlantis cables) for several weeks. IMHO, it is the real deal. I am told it acts like its own earth ground and somehow balances the impedances across the components which are attached to it...I am no techie. In any event, grunge continues to drop, allowing for more contrast between notes, but also a finer sense of timing due to shaving away the blurred edges...which means you suddenly get far clearer and instantly recognizeable contrapuntal themes in music where there may have been none before. That is quite cool because suddenly Hans Zimmer (Gladiator, Dark Knight, Sherlock Holmes) or Beethoven or jazz ensembles where different instruments are not just playing in synch...but actually play off of each other becomes a lot of fun to appreciate. My experience. Note...if you choose to go this route, my experience is: Silver Tellus, then Atlantis Cable and then Atlantis Box...without the Atlantis Cables, just adding the Atlantis box is an 'okay' upgrade whereas the Atlantis cables are a very good upgrade alone, and added to the Atlantis box become a truly great upgrade. |
Hi Dragon. I am a fan of Entreq too. I have Konstantin speaker cables and interconnects, two silver Tellus and one Silver Minimus.I have found them all to be very effective in dramatically lowering the noise floor, stripping away the veils and increasing transparency and fidelity. The first time we put in a Minimus on the DCS Puccini the improvement was immediately obvious and it just kept getting better with each Entreq addition and upgrade. On the basis of my experience I can certainly recommend that you try them. |