Power centers

Phish56466

I'm debating whether or not to build one or buy. I 'MIGHT' get what I want if I buy. I KNOW I'll get what I want if I build it. My question is this : How many of you have attempted this with acceptable results? Any verdicts?

Speedskater

Does it have to be pretty?

Glen B

"Power center" is a loose term that could mean many things. Exactly what features do you need ? Just a place to plug in power cords ? Something with an AC noise filter ? Fancy outlets and wiring ? Building one seems like overkill for a mid-fi system IMHO. You can find anything from a basic aluminum case power strip to rack/shelf mount power center with rear-mounted power outlets starting under $50. I use a Belkin PF-60 conditioner with my modest HT system. My primary need is that it provides a centralized location in my rack where I can plug everything into. Its AC noise filters, surge protection and triggered outlet banks I consider bonus features.

http://www.hammondmfg.com/pb98.htm

Phish56466

Pretty would be nice(to make the wife happy). I want function! THANKS for the link Glen, this is in the neighborhood of what I'm considering. STRAIGHT FORWARD! I've seen a few posts here where people had 1:1 isolation transformers and line filters installed, with decent receps and whatnot. I was wondering if more clarity could possibly be obtained by doing something this drastic?

zingo

I really like my TrippLite LCR2400 with voltage regulation; built solid and rated for 2400w.

Glen B

Phish56466 wrote: »

I've seen a few posts here where people had 1:1 isolation transformers and line filters installed, with decent receps and whatnot. I was wondering if more clarity could possibly be obtained by doing something this drastic?

For the past 9 1/2 years I have been running my main system off such a DIY setup with balanced isolation transformers, audio grade wiring, receptacles, etc., where I can hear the improvements. As stated above, I use the Belkin PF-60 with my more modest HT system, where I feel more costly "conditioning" is unlikely to be worth the expense and effort. Belkin packs a lot into the PF-60 for the price. Each outlet bank, except for the high current amp set, is isolated by an L-C filter network of common-mode chokes (CMCs) and noise suppression caps, plus ferrite chokes.

Belkin PF-60 inside view:



My balanced power units:

Phish56466

You were the gent with the pics I saw. Thanks for the input man!