2. cables
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Does an isolation transformer improve a power cable?

In a post dated 12/14, I described how I built my DIY AC power cables. In evaluating these new cables over the first 100 hours, I am hearing parts in music I did not know where there--instruments are standing out in sharp relief with a more robust dynamic and improved clarity. All of this is coming through via Furutech's Ohno Continuous Cast copper, a brand I am not here to promote--rather, it is the one I chose to obtain a legitimate OCC material. These cables are feeding two ARC Reference 210's, modifed to 250's. But, what appears to make as important a contribution is what is feeding the AC cables their current--a large 240V/120V isolation transformer weighing 120 pounds and supplying 4000 watts of work to all of my devices via six outlets on the back. What I am understanding is that this thing provides a more ideal supply of current that is independent of the rest of the house and its appliances and devices. With all that is said about power cables and what they can and cannot do, depending on one's beliefs about alternating current, i.e., what is upstream, how could it matter, what about the rest of the grid, the last six feet is important, etc, I suspect that, in using a true induction transformer in this manner, the last six feet is the only six feet in my power supply, and this is why these OCC cables sound so stunningly good. Is this the purest AC energy pathway possible?
jafreeman
jea48
2,944 posts
 

The isolation transformers I use in my system are industrial ones like Topaz. They range from 1 kVA to 2.4 kVA. Another one I use are older Tice Power blocks. The con of these isolation transformers are they are big bulky and not the prettiest to look at.
12-29-14: Jedinite24

Jedinite24,

Are the outputs of the transformers grounded AC power systems, therein single ended 120V with a Hot ungrounded conductor and a neutral grounded conductor? If they are wired in this fashion have you ever checked to make sure the outputs are all in phase with one another?

Simple test is to measure for voltage from the Hot ungrounded lead from each output of each ISO transformer to the Hot ungrounded lead of the other ISO transformers. (Hot contacts of connected receptacles of each ISO transformer output to the hot receptacle contact of the other ISO transformers). If the outputs are in phase you will measure zero volts nominal. If any are out of phase with one another you will measure 240V nominal. For audio equipment connected together by ICs it is best to have the outputs of the ISO transformers in phase with one another.

Same goes for an ISO transformer/s that are used to power some equipment and the 120V wall mains receptacle, fed from the existing house electrical panel, is used to power other equipment where the audio system is connected together by ICs. The grounded AC output of the ISO transformer/s should be in phase with the wall mains receptacle.

Jim
jafreeman's avatar
jafreeman OP
448 posts
 
I have taken the easier but more expensive route by using plug-and-play transformers that are made to sit with your gear, not in the basement under your breaker box. The two best known audiophile brands are Richard Gray and Torus/Bryston. These products have their own AC power cables that simply plug into a wall outlet. I happen to use the Richard Gray Rack Mount Pro. The model below that is their Substation. Their largest is the Powerhouse. The Torus products come in various power outputs, as well. In any case, I would only use a 240V/120V version. All you need is a 240V outlet next to your gear--simple, clean, direct with no worries about phase. The 240V versions deliver more wattage, and this is what you want--a dedicated 120V, 20 amp line will deliver 2400 watts, so you want to equal or exceed that. If you are running two 20 amps lines for two big mono blocks and subwoofers, then you may need an isolation transformer for each side of your system. I also use the RGPC 1200C for my front end. These are all expensive, though, and heavy, as they should be. They do not limit peak demands, they supply them, and, as said, they isolate your system away from ground and grid. Results in my old house have been a broader, more relaxed and articulate low end and sound stage. The new AC OCC cables have taken everything to a new plateau of clarity and presence.
jea48
2,944 posts
 
All you need is a 240V outlet next to your gear--simple, clean, direct with no worries about phase.
12-29-14: Jafreeman
Jafreeman,

I agree I would feed a 4KVA ISO transformer with 240V as well. Better for isolation of the ISO transformer as well as for balancing the mains of the electrical service panel.

As for phasing if you are by chance referring to my above post it doesn't matter if the primary is fed by 240V or 120V. The outputs of ISO transformers could still end up out of phase with one another.

Jim
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,483 posts
 
Thankyou for your reply's jedinite24 and jafreeman, the plug and play sounds like a good idea.
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,483 posts
 
Jea48, Hi Jim, I need to E-mail you concering my power, will this be ok?, it is not about this topic here.
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