120 or 240 AC current, Which one do you like best?


All of my gear (Linn) can be operated at either 120 or 240
volts. Would like to know which one is better in terms of
noise, voltage drop, stability, etc. I once heard a main frame computer instaler say that noise from a 240 V. outlet was lower due to cancellation from the two hot lines. I have asked several other people on this matter but have gotten all kind of stories.I am in the process of installing dedicated lines, 10 AWG wires with isolated ground. Any help or technical information will be very much apreciated. Thanks.
hepl
I've never listened to a 240 conversion, but I would really like to one day. Supposedly lowered AC noise and a more pristine sound and greater sense of relaxed or effortless presentation are some of the effects of going to balanced power.

You may be able to simply switch your components internally from 115v to 230v either by an internal switch or by perhaps a simple splicing and reconnection of a couple of wires. You may be able to obtain instructions and/or schematics from the mfg'erers of your components.

But I believe good line conditioners would still be required to complete the project.

-IMO
220 / 240 would be preferred if possible for multiple reasons. Just make sure that ALL of your gear is capable of running at those voltages. You may want to run an extra 110/120 line for future purchases or temporary use "just in case". Sean
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Stehno & Sean, thanks for the info. I am interested due to the fact that My Ikemi, Kudos, Kairn-Pro & Klouts can be changed to 240 V by means of a switch in the rear panel.
Lower ac noise is what I am after, will also install the extra 120 V line. Would like to add a video projector to my listening room in the future.
Hepl, unless you are an electrician or really, really know what you are doing, I would suggest hiring an electrician to install your 230v circuits, breakers, and lines.

-IMO
The main advantage of 230 vs 115 is that smaller size wire is necessary, or longer runs can be made with the same size. Fewer amps must flow for the same wattage of power, because the voltage is higher.

Whether it is 115 or 220 volts, don't attempt it unless you know what you are doing. 115 vac can kill you just as well as 220vac. A 220 volt line is just two 115 volt lines, connected to different phases of the 2-phase power input. Making a 220 volt line is like making a 115 volt line two times. Same skills. Same hazards.