Power Distributors: Shunyata Delta-X, AudioQuest Niagara 5000, and PS Audio PowerPlant 12


Decided to start a new thread that accurately reflects my current thoughts.

We moved and the house has some electrical issues. An electrician is addressing them for use. One issue is a wide voltage swing identified by my 20 year old Panamax 5300 (98-145 volts). Wide swings happen in this area but normally between 100-140 volts. The electrician is work with the utility company to minimize this on our property. He is also installing a dedicated 20A line for the stereo system.

I have already ordered a Furman P-2400 AR (recommended by Furman) to help protect the system from wide voltage swings. The Panamax is ready for retirement.

I plan to install a power conditioner/distributor that will utilize the protection the Furman provides. I will probably run my XA-25, one sub, and maybe both Acoustat 1+1 speakers directly through the Furman. The conditioner/distributor will handle everything else.

The three models listed in the title are my short list. The Delta-X with an Shunyata Alpha-X XC cord runs $6000 for The Cable Company. The Delta-X is $4500 without any cable, and the Alpha-X MSRP is $2800. This will be my most expensive cable if this is selected. The Niagara 5000 is $6900 ($3999 from TMR with stock cable). The PowerPlant 12 is $5999 (approx $4000 with Panamax trade from PS Audio and approximately $3000 used from TMR with stock cable).

So here is the apples to apples choice: Delta-X at $4500, Niagara 5000 at $4000, and PowerPlant 12 at $3000. What are your concerns and recommendations?

If I go with the Delta-X, do I need, or want, the Alpha-X XC? 

 

thriftyaudio

As already articulated, the huge voltage swing is your biggest issue, not only for your stereo system, but, also for your home appliances... Decades ago, like the 50's and 60's applicances were engineered to handle voltages down to 95 Volts, but, no more... Modern appliances are all about cost cutting and efficiency.  The windows of operation for longevity are narrow.   Personally, I would concentrate more on addressing that... As a comparaison, the voltage swing at my house is 115V to 120 Volts.

That makes a lot of sense, good that you checked with PS Audio. I use a P15 with good results, but I have pretty stable voltage. And I agree with Pass, I ran my amp through the P15 for a month or so and switching to the wall was an improvement.

Good luck sorting this out.

I have had experience with Shunyata... and it is the company I would go with. I have tried a couple of their conditions... although stuck with the one I have because it is very good and I did not want to spend the money. If I swapped it would be with a Shunyata... second choice IsoTech. 

@thriftyaudio Wide swings happen in this area but normally between 100-140 volts.

Those wide voltage swings seem very dangerous for audio components, should be addressed first. Good luck.

I find it ridiculous in this day and age that your power company can't provide a stable voltage. It's a third world situation. Maybe consider moving to the Congo.

Seriously though there's something on your powerline that's switching on and off could be a factory or farm equipment. Let the power company sort it out.