Surge Protectors and Power Conditioners in Hi-Fi?
This is the problem:
“I have a decent system with tube amp, pre and decent ICs and PCs. However, I am only using a surge protector with no noise filtration added and a stock power cord. Am I limiting the performance of my components by not using some sort of conditioner. I have heard that conditioners can limit current, soundstage, dynamics, etc. There doesn’t seem to be any noise associated with my current set up but, I might also be limiting performance with the surge protector and power cord since it is stock. Looking for suggestions on inexpensive line conditioners that do not limit current or performance.”
There are many ways to answer this question. There are a few points that I think should be looked at when dealing with this situation:
1. I would say that if you own your house, installing a dedicated circuit the first step to improvement your power.
2. Surge protectors are limiting your current and wasting energy as heat already with their poor contacts, unless you are using a high-end unit.
3. PS Audio and Shunyata make great units in my opinion that are non-current limited for improving the quality of sound. There are also passive line conditioners to consider. Make sure you audition first!
4. Monster Cable makes some decent non-limiting power conditioners as well, at a very affordable price. They don’t have a large amount of filtration and many high-end audiophiles will shun them, but they do work.
5. Power Cords should only be assessed after the power has been addressed.