Stepdown transformer 240v - 220v



Hi Guys
I have a integrated amplifier that is set for 220v European and i need to use it on a 240v outlet here in Australia , the amplfier transformer is rated at 500va and the amp is 100wpc into 8ohm
what size stepdown transformer would i need ?
i have seen a stepdown that is rated at 600w - 2.7 amps
and a 1000w - 4.5amps .
I wish to maintain the best sound from the amp and don't want to restrict its power supply .
sorry but i am a bit of a nuff with electronics.

Thanks for your help

Phil.

Regards
Phil
steam3642

Showing 3 responses by ngjockey

Minimum I would recommend for ANY amp is 2KVA. Maybe 1.5 KVA for an autoformer but I would rather have the isolation of secondaries.

2000W / 240V = 8.33A

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Voltage-Step-Down-UP-Transformer-220V-240V-100V-2000W-Europe-China-etc-/161095551061?pt=Travel_Adapters_Converters&hash=item25820b0855
Or

http://www.stepdowntransformer.com.au/product/ae2k/

These have got to be autoformers/converters. Real transformers with primary and secondary windings would be a lot heavier.

The following are transformers but don't have an enclosure and require proper wiring/outlets.

http://www.signaltransformer.com/home/step-updown-power-isolation/
"What is the difference...?"

Between the Tortech and the Signal SU/DU at 2000 watts, about 20 kg and several hundred dollars.

An autotransformer only has one winding and offers no isolation and no filtration. They are more efficient per weight and cost. If you want a packaged unit, that may be the only option available.

The mass of bigger core with dual/quad windings does give it some magnetic stability, if I'm using that term properly.

Bandwidth is not an issue for power transformers, unlike audio. They only have to provide 50 or 60 Hz. In fact, the narrower the better.

As far as degradation, there are various opinions and experiences and I can't account for each implementation although I've seen some that were just wrong. I've got several oversized isolation and center-tapped (don't ask) transformers and haven't heard any degradation, just a bit less noise. Not a big proponent of using them for amps because of the way a class AB amp draws power in spikes, but as long they're sufficiently oversized, it shouldn't hurt.

Be aware too that transformers can have a mechanical hum that can be unpredictable to each installation and environment.