Power Amps and Power Conditioners, Do you plug in?


Here is my situation. Like many of us I have always believed in plugging my amplifier directly into the wall socket. I have somewhat dedicated line, separate 15 amp line with Hubbell hospital grade outlets, that does not feed off a separate dedicated line. This is because I live in a co-op that has 14 floors and 170 dwellings. It is as isolated as I can get. It is better than what I had before.

I have a Monster HTS 2000 that is plugged into one of the four outlets provided in the dedicated line. I just purchased a Synergistic AC Master Coupler powercord that I am using with a Sim Audio Moon W-5. The powercord is not user-friendly. I cannot plug it directly into the dedicated line because it will not flex to allow me to do so. I plugged it into the amplifier section of the Monster HTS 2000, claimed to be non-current limiting, and gave it a try. There is no doubt that my system sounds more dynamic that it did before.

Am I fooling myself? Am I limiting the ability of my amplifier to perform at its peak? Does anyone else find themselves plugging their amplifiers into their power line conditioners and are getting similar results? Should I use the new power cord with my preamplifier through the power conditioner and plug my amplifier directly into my dedicated line with an inferior power cord?

I look forward to your comments and experiences.

Thank you,
Drew
drewfidelity

Showing 1 response by dadavtan

AC power is an area many audiophiles don't pay enough attention to. I have found that the most effective solution is to have an electrician install a dedicated copper feeder cable to a new distribution box in your room. From there, you can install as many circuits as you need for each component. This is over-building, but you can't argue with the improvement in your sound and images. Manufacturers of conditioners and power-cords won't like me for telling you this. If you live in a high-rise, this may not be easy. Spread out your power demands to as many circuits as you can. Make your own extention/power cords using large gage conductors and high quality components. Follow your electrical code.