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Will an Isolation Transformer Help My Digital?

I am experiencing noise from my digital components into my system. It presents as high frequency interference thru the speakers once the components are warmed up. This interference is being sent back to the mains and can be heard when music is being played or idle.

I’m using an ARC CD3 mk II CDP, Chord DAC, and a NAD CD player. I have a 20 amp dedicated line with Blue Circle power conditioning at the wall.
A Furman power strip for the low-current analogue components is plugged into the PC. Also feeding from the PC is a Tripp-Lite Isobar with isolated filter banks for the digital. The toroidal chokes in this Tripp-Lite power strip are not able to filter the digital noise.
My amp plugs into the wall duplex outlet.

I posted a thread earlier where it was mentioned than an isolation transformer used exclusively for the digital components might resolve the noise/interference problem.
I read in the archives about the use of a Tripp Lite IS250HG Isolation Transformer to isolate the CDP/DAC.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000ET7Q6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_img?_encoding=UTF8&colid=29XG41GAZ363K...

So, I’m asking if this would be a solution, since I don’t plan on running another dedicated line. (too many reasons to list).
128x128lowrider57
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57 OP
5,393 posts
 
@ptss,
since there's no budget to change my power conditioning or convert to balanced power, have you ever used an isolation xfmr on upstream components?

@lak,
Thanks for setting me straight. So you are benefiting by using a CPT PC into a power strip. In my situation, if only the digital was in the CPT/power strip chain, IYO, would that isolate these devices? IOW, no noise bleeding back into the mains?
 My preamp would need to be on a separate line.

(And the Tripp-lite Isobar was a major disappointment. Not at all as advertised).
ptss
1,959 posts
 
Re the isolation transformer; yes I have used 3 of them. on a preamp, separate cd player and separate turntable. This was before I got my Equitech and Sound Application units. Very effective. I highly recommend provided you use top quality and substantially overspec'd
regarding current draw.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57 OP
5,393 posts
 
@ptss, thanks!
What size would you recommend for use with an ARC CD and a small DAC? I have seen xfmr's rated in watts; shouldn't they be rated in amps?

Also, is this Topaz good enough for high-end audio?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/191842008876?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
lak's avatar
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lak
4,530 posts
 
Lowrider57,
Just remember that if your isolation transformer is going to be located in your listening room, it will generate some heat and some noise (hum).
For example, my isolation transformer does run warm to the touch (96 degrees F and produce 55 dB of sound with the reading taken within one inch of the transformers). The noise and generated heat doesn't bother me because the power filtration system is located in a different room.
Depending on the size of the isolation transformer, the heat and noise level will vary, however you never know what’s going to happen (noise, heat and filtration wise) until you try it.
lak's avatar
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lak
4,530 posts
 
I think the Topaz isolation transformer you refer to above would work for your ARC CDP and small draw DAC.

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