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  3. 1246188460

Which is the best high end passive power filter?

Hi members, I am currently seriously researching the best passive power 8 point filters & would like to know firstly if there is a passive filter which unquestionably improves the sound of high end audio systems without strangling dynamics, or imparting a sonic "signature" of it's own? And secondly, as I live in Australia; is either available in Aust-spec, or is sold by a company which is likely to offer the board in that spec?

An obvious front runner at the moment is Shunyata's new Hydra 8v2 which offer the Hydra in Australa. I have heard the new model 8v2 is slightly better than the previous Vray which is a big wrap.

I should say I am sceptical about power filters. An audiophile friend of mine who happens to have owned a hifi store in Australia for more than 25 years said he never heard a power filter (in Australia) which didn't have a negative impact on the sound, including some very high gear including (from memory) a Burmester active filter, so I would need to be convinced to take the plunge.

So is the new Hydra 8v2 the best option, or maybe even a stretch to save for the new Vray v2?

(Thanks in advance for your ideas)
melbguy1

Showing 4 responses by fafafion

fafafion
190 posts
 
Correction,The Shunyata Vray V2.haven't had thje chance to listen to Hydra V2 yet
fafafion
190 posts
 
Here are my recommendations:

1.Sound Applications Referance.The best IMO,I personally prefer it to the Walker's Velocitor.Much more quiter background..

2.My friend [using all tubes amplifications]really love the power wing made by Alan Krafton;http://www.audioexcellenceaz.com/powerwing.htm

I have borrowed it ,in my referance system,I still prefer The SA.BTW I use Alan's cable cooker and simply love it ,and Alan is such a wonderful man,just write to him.

3.Acoustic Revive Ultime ain't too bad either ,but I think not in the same class as the above too.

4.As far as Shunyata is concerned the Hydra v2 is SIGNIFICANTLY better than the original ,to my ears.The problem I have with Shunyata ...(and most power conditioners ),is it has a certain 'flavour'...add up its sonoc characteristic.It might not be a bad thing if your system need some flavouring,but they are not for me....

Following the Ashes,Mate?
fafafion
190 posts
 
Melbguy1,

The Sound applications provide that little bit extra quietness,and that little extra holographic imaging,at least in my system....there is a caveat though,you have to pay a lot more to get that little extra;law of diminishing return in full glory here....

Like I mentioned earlier,write to Alon Krafton,he really is very knowledgeable.The main advantage of Powerwing is that it is customize to what you want,not unlike a bespoke suit;so it may 'fit' your system better....anyway if you haven't tried his Cable cooker[Audiodharma},i suggest you get that first.Everybody should have access to one IMO

fafafion
190 posts
 
I think the argument that a new technology is definitely better Is not true ;certainly not for hi-fi ,if not all of us will have digital amps and computer based players....how old is tube amp technology and Vinyl playback system anyway?

I can't form an opinion on the Tesla Power cell ,haven't had the chance to audition it yet,but even some people prefers the shunyata 's to Sound applications.....and I do not blame them.Like I say before some system certainly could sound better with a bit of flavouring.....

As for ME,I want my PLCs not to impart ANY flavor at all,so that the rest of the system could really shine true...in this regards,having tried MANY ,I have yet found something that could better the SA .Do I care if the technology is old?No,not at all....
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