2. misc-audio
  3. 1301225436

Isolation Transformer or Power Regenerator

How are they different? Is one better than the other?

Let’s first just I assume that I have bad power. I have a Topaz 1.8 (.9 balanced) that I put my McCormack DNA-1 Deluxe (SMcAudio silver upgrade) on recently and the difference in sound was night and day. Was expecting subtle changes but not dramatic changes. The amp right out of the wall did not sound very good at all, which just did not make sense…it’s a good amp. Putting the iso in line explained why. So, my feeling is I need to get fresh power to my entire system. The Topaz in balanced form may have just enough headroom to squeek by (according to Steve McCormack) with just the amp on it. More would be better.

So, should I get a higher power iso (Topaz, Oneac) for the amp and using the existing one iso on the other gear? If so, does it matter if it is a IE-core or Torroid? Some say EIs let less noise through, some say a good Torriod will equal EI in terms of noise reduction and create less noise (EMI) than an IE. Any final verdicts on this?

Or would it make more sense to get a (Exact Power, PS Audio Power Plant Premier) power regenerator and put the whole system on it. Would any of these have enough headroom to cover my whole system?

I already have a dedicated 20A line to this system. Looking for bang-for-buck solution.

My System:

TADAC Tube Pre/DAC = 25W According to Paul at TAD)
Apple TV = 20W (according to Apple)
DIP (Original) = 10W (according to back panel)
Tivo HD = 40W (according to tivocommunity)
Video Switcher = (don't know but could it be much?)
TV = 240W (according to manual)
McCormack DNA-1 Deluxe = 400 (according to SmCAudio)
Paradigm PS1000 powered (250W/750W peak) Subwoofer = I can’t find this, any ideas? Let’s say 375

TOTAL = 1110W
cpalcott
ngjockey
1,042 posts
 
For example...

http://www.kyledesigns.com/product/2095-HGRED/Red-Hospital-Grade-20A-Decora-GFCI-Receptacle-Satin.html
grr6001
103 posts
 
I have the Equi=Tech 10kva & have found it to be better than anything I have used to date.

I have tried & used many of the stand alone units as well as some of the power regeneration. The results with the Equi=tech's unit is way above the rest. IMHO....of course.
Some of the stand alone units work very well & are worthy of consideration depending on your budget & needs.

Maybe one of the unimpressive results stated above is due to lack of burn in time. I would say with all the new wiring, transformer, & outlets it does take some time to settle in for the true evaluation of the units. In my situation & system I have to agree with Mike Lavigne, the equi=tech was the way to go. Mine has been in service for 3+ years & I could not be more pleased with the results.

You do not have to buy the mack daddy Equi=tech unit from them to get great results. Call & talk with them, they are very knowledgeable & helpful to guide you. They have been doing this for many years & have a great reputation in the industry.

There are many ways to go about cleaning up your power & it's very hard to say what works the best. Many factors play into the equation, where you live & the power grid around you is a factor. Doing something to help YOUR power grid is always the first & proper step to take in achieving good sound quality for your room & system.

Products are always improving, so who's to say what is best.
Do your homework & make a educated decision on what works best for you & your budget.
grr6001
103 posts
 
Word of caution: On some of the stand alone units & even other manufacturers of isolation transformers, beware of them adding or taking away (as per) adding their sonic signature on the sound. There are tonal differences to many of these units.

Some add filter capacitors and regulators within the component's power supply that change the sound.
More to discover