Power filters Archives - The Absolute Sound https://www.theabsolutesound.com/category/reviews/ac-power-products/power-filters/ High-performance Audio and Music Reviews Fri, 28 Feb 2025 19:16:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 2022 Golden Ear: Shunyata Research Everest 8000 Power Distributor https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/2022-golden-ear-shunyata-research-everest-8000-power-distributor/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 15:22:10 +0000 https://www.theabsolutesound.com/?post_type=articles&p=50365 Shunyata Research Everest 8000 Power Distributor $8995 I have had […]

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Shunyata Research Everest 8000 Power Distributor

$8995

I have had the pleasure of using the Everest 8000 power conditioner—I mean, power distributor, as Shunyata calls it—for about a year, and the more I’ve used it the more it has impressed me. When paired with Shunyata’s Omega XC power cord ($7000), which is pretty much how most people deploy the Everest, my system makes music sound both more dynamically alive and more at ease. Because the noise floor is lowered so dramatically, greater contrasts in dynamic and timbral shadings allow for a more complete rendering of recordings. Imaging and soundstaging are also more three-dimensional and lifelike. Unlike many power conditioners that can inhibit power delivery, the Everest has a patented power-reservoir technology (called QR/BB) that delivers extra power on demand. Shunyata deploys several other unique technologies, but limited space does not allow for a complete accounting. Build-quality is first rate, and the form factor (an elongated truncated-pyramid shape), equipped with “cradles” to support the cable plugs, makes it easy to use. I believe other reviewers have also given the Everest 8000 awards, including a Golden Ear Award by Robert Harley in 2020. It is so good that I must join the chorus of those who have already praised it. An easy GEA this year, too.

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Announcing Limited Edition Denali 6000 v2 Tower https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/announcing-limited-edition-denali-6000-v2-tower/ Wed, 30 Nov 2022 15:18:02 +0000 https://www.theabsolutesound.com/?post_type=articles&p=49385 The following is a press release issued by Shunyata.November 2022 […]

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The following is a press release issued by Shunyata.

November 2022 – We are proud to announce the release of the Denali 6000/Tower v2 Limited Edition. Based on customer demand and the popularity of the original Denali 6000/T we are offering a limited run of the dramatically improved Denali 6000/T v2 for commercial sale.

The Denali 6000/Tower v2 Limited Edition borrows its form from the iconic, original Denali 6000/T but adds the massive advances in science that made the Denali 6000/S v2 shelf version the finest product in its category.

With its litany of updates, the Denali 6000/T v2 stands as the most meticulously crafted and scientifically vetted product of its kind.

The Denali 6000/T v2 is packed with updated v3 filtering as well as larger versions of Shunyata’s patented QR/BB technology and NIC (Noise Isolation Chambers). CGS Ground noise filtering maximizes background silence. As always, the integral three-stage Trident Defense System provides optimum protection from spikes and surges. Even the heavy, integrated stand of the Denali 6000/T v2 provides massive isolation from floor-borne vibration. Patented technologies from within the Denali 6000/T v2 are now applied within critical medical and studio, mastering, and film applications worldwide

The Denali 6000/T v2 is available as a limited edition run.

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Audience forte V8 Power and forte f3 powerChord https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/audience-forte-v8-power-and-forte-f3-powerchord/ https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/audience-forte-v8-power-and-forte-f3-powerchord/#respond Wed, 09 Dec 2020 17:01:10 +0000 https://www.theabsolutesound.com/?post_type=articles&p=45247 Like me, you’re probably running short of outlets in your […]

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Like me, you’re probably running short of outlets in your listening room. Where’d they all go? Looking back it was a lot simpler when source components were limited to a turntable or CD player. A couple of plugs, a preamp, an amp, and you were good to go. Digital media introduced a whole new level of demand for power outlets. From wireless modems, network routers, wall-wart plugin power supplies, computers, servers, DACs…arrgh! Sure, you can grab a scary-cheap plastic power strip at a big box store—it’s a free country. Or you can be a little more discriminating and opt for something that’s consistent with audiophile expectations, is unbreakable, and is not liable to break the bank.

The Audience forte V8 Power could be the ticket. It supplies eight precious AC outlets and offers first-rate construction quality, as have all the Audience products I’ve encountered over the years. Beneath its fetching ruby-red top plate is a chassis constructed of extruded aluminum and sporting a high-quality triple buss-bar system. The duplexes are top-notch hospital-grade, each separately wired to the buss bars in star-ground configuration. Audience uses high-purity, 14AWG, stranded-copper wire throughout. The entire electric circuit has been treated by cryogenics as well as a proprietary EHVP (extreme high voltage process).

The power cord connection is standard IEC, with Audience’s new entry-level forte F3 powerChord included. Flexible and ruggedly built, the f3 features 10AWG stranded copper and a conductor geometry that rejects noise. (If you’re leaning in the direction of upgrading your stock power cords, this is a great one to consider—competitive with my current econo-reference, the Shunyata Venom NR.)

The V8 includes standard Audience RF filtration, but for surge or overload protection you’ll need to consider Audience’s line of power conditioners. To that end Audience recommends plugging the V8 into an open outlet on any Audience power conditioner—like the aR6-T4 I’ve been using—for extra noise filtration, plus surge and overload protection. Connectors are cryogenically treated and enclosed with XLPE dielectric material in a PVC jacket.

My listening comparison included running a set of components directly from the stock wall outlets of my listening room and then running them again using the V8 Power from that same outlet. In this comparison it performed impeccably, with no discernible losses, changes, or degradations versus the wall outlets. If anything backgrounds seemed quieter and low-level transparency improved. I later ran the forte V8 Power out of the Audience T4 power conditioner and was a little surprised at how many of the T4 characteristics that I’ve always found alluring remained fully intact. Bass response firmed up and conveyed greater control,; there was a little more body and air to vocal images; soundstage dimensionality and ambience retrieval were enhanced, as well.

Specs & Pricing

Dimensions: 12.875″ x 4.125″ x 1.25″
Weight: 2.7 lbs.
Price: forte V8 Power, $895 (forte f3 powerChord included); forte f3 powerChord (prices begin at $199)

AUDIENCE
120 N. Pacific St., K-9
San Marcos, CA 92069
(800) 565-4390
audience-av.com

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Nordost QRT QPoint and QRT QSource Resonance Synchronizer https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/nordost-qrt-qpoint-and-qrt-qsource-resonance-synchronizer/ https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/nordost-qrt-qpoint-and-qrt-qsource-resonance-synchronizer/#respond Wed, 09 Dec 2020 15:58:40 +0000 https://www.theabsolutesound.com/?post_type=articles&p=45245 About a year ago, I first heard the Nordost QKore system—a […]

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About a year ago, I first heard the Nordost QKore system—a passive approach to grounding that proved to be extremely effective. Even though my stereo system was running off an Equitech transformer and special Cardas runs of wire to hospital-grade outlets, it turned out that the noise floor could be taken down another notch. The benefits—a silkier presentation and blacker backgrounds—were immediately audible.

To my surprise, Nordost hasn’t stopped there. Nordost representative Michael Taylor indicated to me that the company was introducing a new and separate product to try and further improve playback sound. I first got a chance to hear it during an open house at a local Washington stereo emporium called JS Audio. There Taylor was demoing Nordost’s new device with a passel of Audio Research equipment. He played the system for me with his device turned off and then on. I remained impassive. I got an inquiring look from Taylor. I intimated that I thought I heard an improvement, but given that I was listening to an unfamiliar system wasn’t 100 percent sure. Further listening, in my own system, was in order.

A few weeks later, Taylor showed up at my doorstep with a variety of boxes containing a QRT QPoint that is coupled to something called QRT QSource. You plug the QSource into a wall socket and run bright green DC cables from it to the QPoints, which resemble hockey pucks. The claims that Nordost advances for the QPoint are intriguing: “The QPoint Resonance Synchronizer emits a subtle field which manipulates all electromechanical resonances within its immediate proximity so that they resonate in unison with each other.” The idea seems to be that in an individual component, parts like capacitors are vibrating. These vibrations become an inadvertent source of noise. Nordost says that the QPoint “eliminates this internal electrical noise,” thereby enhancing the coherency and timing that are at the heart of an audio system.

There are two settings for the QPoint—you get to choose which resonances you prefer. I went with the blue setting, which is said to operate more quickly than the green one. The aim throughout is to try and lower the noise floor.

In my view, the QPoint does that. After Taylor inserted the QPoints underneath my dCS Vivaldi stack, I heard an instant improvement in musical clarity and precision. Small but significant details that had previously been obscured were now apparent. Deploying it under the Ypsilon PST-100 Mk. II preamplifier and Wilson Audio active crossover offered further, if not quite as substantial benefits.

Take a lovely but somewhat troubled recording on the Erato label of the French harpsichordist Jean Rondeau playing Bach concertos. I don’t know how it is with you, but there are some recordings that are captivating musically but aggravating sonically. This is one of them. The promise is all there: great performance and even greater music. But the orchestra, particularly its bass line, has always sounded muddy. With the introduction of the QPoints, the orchestra really snapped into place. It was like a photo that went from blurry to sharp in the blink of an eye. It was a sheer pleasure to hear the interplay between the harpsichord and orchestra on the Concerto in D minor. What a revelation!

It was also possible to discern improvements on CDs that were well recorded. On a recent CD of trumpet recordings by Matthias Hofs playing with the Bremen chamber orchestra on the Berlin Classics label, I was quite sure that the playback sounded airier and more precise. On the Telemann Concerto in D major, which is one of the more treacherous trumpet solos, I heard a pinch more air in the treble as well as improved transients. There was just a shade more pop in the explosive passages of the concerto to be heard from Hof’s piccolo trumpet. These are subtle differences, but when added up they combine to produce a larger musical whole. The result is a more engaging and engrossing performance, one step closer to the real thing.

If I was sold on the QPoints, it was also intriguing to explore the capabilities of the QSource. Thanks to the importunings of the North American dCS representative John Quick, I finally dipped a toe into the digital streaming waters by procuring a Roon Labs server. It turns out that you can jettison the flimsy wall wart that accompanies it and substitute the QSource, which in essence allows you to run the Roon off a linear power supply. This turned out to be a nifty upgrade. While I enjoyed opening the portal to a wealth of music by entering the streaming world, it never really sounded all that competitive with the dCS transport. I don’t think that the QSource can completely cover the gap, but it offered a substantial improvement in image density, resolution, and hall ambience. There really was no comparison between it and the wall wart, something that was immediately apparent on a Martha Argerich recording of a live performance at the Lugano Festival or Cat Stevens’ classic Tea For the Tillerman. Argerich’s piano just sounded so much more formidable and the hall more spacious with the QSource powering the Roon.

I don’t doubt that there will be more than a few skeptical glances cast at Nordost’s latest offerings. When I first heard them, I tried to keep an open mind but couldn’t quite suppress my skepticism. Nordost’s technical explanations for these products will undoubtedly arouse controversy. After listening to them in my own system, however, I can enthusiastically attest that both the QPoint and QSource provide valuable sonic benefits in a high-end system.  

Specs & Pricing

QRT QPoint
Weight: 0.9 lbs.
Dimensions: 5″ x 1″
Price: $749

QRT QSource
Weight: 6 lbs.
Dimensions: 1″ x 4.75″ x 2.625″ (with feet)
Price: $2499

Nordost
93 Bartzak Drive
Holliston, MA 01746
nordost.com

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Clarus Concerto AC Power Conditioner https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/clarus-concerto-ac-power-conditioner/ https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/clarus-concerto-ac-power-conditioner/#respond Mon, 17 Aug 2020 16:15:07 +0000 http://localhost/tas_dev/articles/clarus-concerto-ac-power-conditioner As a reviewer I have the opportunity to audition world-class […]

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As a reviewer I have the opportunity to audition world-class equipment and accessories, as well as real-world gear. The world-class, skies-the-limit stuff is always a treat. Who wouldn’t enjoy an extended Ferrari test drive, or a month with a Bentley Turbo in his garage? But reviewing real-world gear provides a sense of satisfaction and simple pleasure. At $3600, the Clarus Concerto falls firmly into the category of real-world equipment (at least in the real world of audiophiles). It also falls into a category filled with competition. This will not be a review of raves, and it will not be a review of hyperbole. Not because the Concerto is bad; in fact, it’s quite the opposite. But because the job this type of equipment does is meant to be imperceptible. A power conditioner’s goal is to remove noise without limiting current or degrading the quality of the signal path. All you should notice is how well it does what it’s supposed to, while not doing what it isn’t supposed to. 

To all those cat lovers I apologize, but there are a million ways to skin a cat in the world of power conditioning. A thorough explanation of technologies would take several pages, and I don’t think my editor would appreciate me squandering that much space in this fine publication; so let us be specific to the Concerto. 

Clarus implements a five-tier approach to conditioning. First, it utilizes what it calls “C-Core technology.” To quote, “C-Core’s high permeability and core loss are hardly affected by mechanical stress due to near-zero magnetostriction—a property of ferromagnetic materials that causes them to change their shape or dimension during the process of magnetization. (This) significantly reduces audible noise emission when the voltage and current applied to the core are in the audible frequency range.” Second, Clarus uses special vibration-damping materials to control mechanical vibrations that are created as low-frequency AC signals pass through the copper windings. Third, the Concerto shuts down when voltage falls outside of the 90VAC to 135VAC safe zone. Fourth, Clarus implements Thermal Metal Oxide Varistor (TMOV) devices to protect from surges. And finally, the Concerto has a unique and clever cable support bar on the back of the unit just below the receptacles to ensure a tight and secure connection and prevent heavy power cables from drooping. This last bit of tech is a simple, elegant, and brilliant solution to a problem we all have encountered with our heavy high-end power cables; I loved it.

The unit itself is an unassuming but well-made rack-mountable component with a power and dimmer button on the front. The lights inform the user of the condition your AC and the Clarus are in, essentially giving you the “A-OK” or the “Uh-oh.” The back panel offers four banks of double outlets (8 outlets total). Two high-current outlets with 30A C-Core filters, four digital outlets with specially designed multi-level digital filters, and two analog outlets that also use C-Core technology. They are powered on in sequence from high current to digital to analog. 

Technologically, the unit uses inductors made of proprietary lengths of copper dipped in liquid polymer to create a thin dielectric and enhance current flow. The gauge is optimized for the 60Hz/120VAC of our geographic region. All four banks use purpose designed inductors, while the digital outlets add a second inductor to filter higher frequencies that can wreak havoc with digital components. 

What the unit does is exactly what it is supposed to. It lowers the noise floor without restricting dynamics. But how best to utilize the Concerto? I am a bit stubborn when it comes to high-power amplifiers, mono or stereo. I run them directly into the wall with a good power cord and have always achieved the best performance with this setup. In fact, I find that very high-power or very high-quality monoblocks actually benefit from their own dedicated 30A line to the panel. But I do find that some moderately powered amplifiers or integrated amplifiers can benefit from the noise filtering offered by a good conditioner. To be specific, my Octave V80SE with super black box sounded best direct into the wall. But my Naim Uniti Star sounded better plugged into the Concerto, offering a blacker background with a slightly wider stage and more palpable performer presentation (and the difference was not subtle). My expectation would be that moderately powered amplifiers and integrated equipment in the price range of the Clarus would benefit from the high-current filtering offered. Higher-power equipment with significant current draw would most likely still sound best direct into the wall.

I am a stalwart believer in filtering all analog and digital gear, and I don’t think any non-amplification equipment I own has ever been plugged directly into the wall, even in my room with a dedicated panel and identical-length runs to all my dedicated outlets (20A and 30A), and with ground filters in the breaker box. This kind of equipment does have current requirements, but they aren’t close to the needs of thirsty amplifiers; thus, current-limiting becomes a non-issue. Analog and digital gear is much more sensitive to AC line noise from everywhere, and my experience has been that both good cables and good conditioners offer an improvement in audio performance worth the investment. That said, my digital sources and my analog sources benefitted from what the Concerto provided, with clearly blacker backgrounds, more dynamics, and a cleaner canvas upon which to paint the music. Image specificity was also heightened and the stage seemed to take a step closer to the back wall. 

If you are one of those who refuse to accept that AC cables or conditioners can make a difference in system performance, I’m surprised you made it this far in my review, and I hope I have changed your mind—or at least opened your mind to a new possibility. To those who already know the improvements conditioners can make, the Clarus Concerto is a solid option in its price range. It does what it is supposed to do, and nothing it’s not supposed to do. At its price point there are many options, a lot of them good. The Clarus Concerto should join your list and is worth an audition. I believe system matching and synergy will play the biggest roles in your final decision. As such, I urge you to rely on and utilize your authorized local or on-line dealer to guide you to what suits your system best. 

Specs & Pricing

Number of AC outlets: Eight
Maximum power deliverable: 1800W, 120 VAC, 15A
Dimensions: 19″ x 3.5″ x 12.75″
Weight: 19 lbs. (8.6 kg)
Price: $3600

CLARUS
claruscable.com

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Gold Note Announces Launch of PSU-10 EVO https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/gold-note-announces-launch-of-psu-10-evo/ https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/gold-note-announces-launch-of-psu-10-evo/#respond Thu, 02 Jul 2020 20:00:02 +0000 http://localhost/tas_dev/articles/gold-note-announces-launch-of-psu-10-evo Firenze, Italy | July 2, 2020 – Gold Note is pleased […]

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Firenze, Italy | July 2, 2020 – Gold Note is pleased to announce the launch of the PSU-10 EVO, the new external power supply designed for the DS-10 and DS-10 PLUS streaming DACs, available worldwide at authorised Gold Note dealers at a suggested retail price of 1100€ (approximately $1240).

Part of the awarded Series 10, the power supply follows in the same innovative footsteps of the PSU-10 (which is dedicated to the acclaimed phono stage PH-10) and has been inspired by the same principle – to allow the most demanding audiophiles to enhance the absolute performance of their DS-10 and DS-10 PLUS even further.

The PSU-10 EVO is available in Black, Silver and Gold, and uses massive panels of finely machined aluminium as a shield to avoid RFI and EMI. The chassis shows the iconic air vent design and the same size and finishes of the rest of the Series 10, that is 200mm W x 80mm H x 260mm D, for a weight of 4 kg.

The PSU-10 EVO follows that unique and coherent design concept that belongs to all Gold Note products, designed, made and assembled by hand at the Gold Note facility in Tuscany using locally sourced materials.

Moving to the specs, the PSU-10 EVO features a 4-transformer power supply stage enhanced with ultra-low-noise voltage regulators. The power supply stage takes advantage of a 4-transformer layout with 3 transformers entirely dedicated to the power supply and 1 for the inductive filter. The Dual Choke Hybrid design features an inductive filter on the analogue stage and is powered by a double inductor, driving both the negative and positive stages.

The technology developed for the PSU-10 EVO filters the current to eliminate interference and electrical noise from the AC power system achieving the ideal insulation from electrical noise and providing ultra-clean power.

Powered by the PSU-10 EVO, the DS-10 delivers even greater dynamics, higher resolution and refined details resulting in improved stunning realism and musicality.

Please note: the PSU-10 EVO is compatible exclusively with the Gold Note DS-10 and DS-10 PLUS while the PSU-10 is dedicated to the PH-10 Phono Stage.

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Shunyata Research Hydra Delta D6 Power Distributor and Venom NR and V14 Digital Power Cables https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/shunyata-research-hydra-delta-d6-power-distributor-and-venom-nr-and-v14-digital-power-cables/ https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/shunyata-research-hydra-delta-d6-power-distributor-and-venom-nr-and-v14-digital-power-cables/#respond Wed, 27 May 2020 19:08:29 +0000 http://localhost/tas_dev/articles/shunyata-research-hydra-delta-d6-power-distributor-and-venom-nr-and-v14-digital-power-cables You can find a report on my first hands-on encounter […]

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You can find a report on my first hands-on encounter with Shunyata Research cable and power products in Issue 239. Back then I was reviewing the company’s most basic setup—a starter kit for first-time upgraders—the Venom PS8 power distributor, Venom Defender chassis-free plug-and-play power conditioner, and Venom HC power cords. For under $1300 its performance and resolution surprised no one more than me. Truth be told, I’ve had a conflicted past relative to this segment of the market—its claims and costs. It’s fair to say that I considered myself reluctant, but persuadable. However, Shunyata’s Venom system refined my system’s overall voice to an extent I couldn’t have predicted. As I concluded then: “In as little time as it takes to plug in a couple power cords, I’ve gone from skeptic to believer.” 

And here we go again. Shunyata’s advancements in its popular Venom line have led to the creation of the NR Series (NR signifying noise reduction). Still modestly priced ($250, $398, and $498), NR power cords contain many of Shunyata’s technologies and custom-manufactured parts. They feature electrostatic shields to reduce radiated noise. They also represent Shunyata’s lowest-price power cables with built-in CCI filters that measurably reduce power-line noise generated by components. 

 Venom NR uses the same AC connectors, fluorocarbon dielectrics, and VTX hollow-core conductors (to minimize skin effects and eddy currents) found in its higher-priced stuff. The Venoms also use OFE Alloy-101—the highest grade of copper with a minimum 99.99% purity—and the Kinetic Phase Inversion Process or KPIP (Shunyata’s own processing technique that eliminates the need for burn-in and cryogenic treatment). Venom is available in three gauges: NR-V12, 12-gauge conductors designed for all components; NR-V10, which uses larger 10-gauge conductors better suited for amps, preamps, DAC’s, and phonostages; and Venom 14 Digital (14-gauge) for use with digital-output devices, clocks, and servers.

An interesting side note is that V14 Digital is a spin-off from Shunyata’s medical division, Clear Image Scientific (clearimagescientifc.com), which manufactures similar power cords and power-distribution boxes for electrophysiology, heart surgery, neuroscience, and medical-imaging applications. These cables are designed to eliminate the parasitic noise generated by computer devices and network peripherals. The CIS website includes some case studies and third-party measurements. (Note to self: If I ever get another MRI, ask the technician if the lab goes with Shunyata)

Contemporaneous with the development of Venom NR, was the debut of the Hydra Delta D6 power distributor. Housed in a full-sized chassis, it’s rated at 20 amps of continuous current. It’s been designed to deliver power to more demanding systems, including those with high-powered amplifiers. While typical conditioners use fuses or thermal breakers, Delta D6 employs superior electromagnetic breakers, plus massive buss and 8-gauge ArNi conductors (also treated with KPIP for a period of eight days), and Hubbell outlets that use a triple-wipe contact system equipped with broad contact areas to grip a plug from three different sides. 

Shunyata takes isolation very seriously. All chassis panels and internal structures are treated with vibration-dampening materials, and many electrical components are treated in Shunyata Research’s own advanced computer-controlled cryogenics lab. The outlets are isolated from the chassis with gaskets that reduce vibration conducted through the AC cables. All internal modules, filters, and electronics are encapsulated in a vibration-absorbent compound. Hydra Delta D6 also uses Shunyata Research’s Cable Cradle solution to mitigate against heavier power cables pulling away from outlets. Shunyata Research’s vibration-dampening footers come standard; these footers may be optionally upgraded to SSF-38 stainless-steel.

I evaluated the D6 and Venom cords across two different systems in separate listening rooms. The smaller room has eight-foot ceilings and houses a compact system based around the two-way ATC SCM20SL loudspeakers, augmented by a pair of REL T5i subwoofers. The estimable Aesthetix Mimas integrated supplies the power. Sources are the Lumin S1 Media Player and dCS Puccini SACD player. For cables I alternated among Wireworld Silver Eclipse 8, Audience Au24SX, and MIT Evo One. The second system is in a medium-sized space with ten foot ceilings. The loudspeakers are active three-way ATC SCM50SL towers driven by a Pass Labs XP-12 preamp. Cables are XLR versions of the aforementioned brands. The source is the dCS Bartók streaming DAC. With six outlets at the ready, Hydra Delta D6 is an ideal size for smaller systems that comprise a CD player and media player/DAC, a phono preamp, and perhaps an integrated amp. Although I spent most of my time listening to Delta D6/Venom NR as a system, each is sold individually, so you can add components as your budget permits. Indeed just adding NR power cords provided a clear improvement over Venom HC cords, but the results were not nearly as transformational as running the products as a complete system. 

 

My listening impressions of the Venom NR/Delta D6 combination essentially picked up where my previous encounter with Shunyata power conditioning products left off. Since I still had the Venom PS8/Defender and HC cords on hand for comparison, there was no doubt left in my mind about the extent to which the Shunyata team has improved the breed. Those improvements included a more expansive sense of dimension and acoustic space, as well as greater amounts of transient and low-level detail. The tonal palette was also refined—I heard a wider contrast of instrumental timbre and increased micro-dynamic resolution. The impression of extended reverberation times, of longer sustains and decays, was also quite apparent. The overall effect was akin to the way your eyes seem to perceive a more vivid array of colors and contrasts on the sunny day following a cleansing rainstorm. I observed, for example, during Dave Brubeck’s Take Five the sheer naturalism of Desmond’s saxophone—a near-ideal balance of reedy attack and trailing harmonic sweetness. Peter Gabriel’s and Kate Bush’s vocals during “Don’t Give Up” from the Tidal MQA stream sounded less constrained, and there was more air between the duo. Massed voices, whether in a large chorus or in groupings of backup singers, were also enhanced in specificity and individuality.

Among the most noteworthy sonic achievement was the expansion of spatiality and the ease of presentation. I’m referring to spatiality in both the micro and macro senses. In the macro, the orchestral stage seemed to expand into a fully continuous, seamless fabric of sound. Images were better localized revealing more of the personal ambient space around the players themselves. 

At the micro level, images were pocketed within halos of ambience that were stitched into the soundspace, These micro cues led to a more finely focused presentation that reinforced the almost eerie lack of noise and distortion that the Shunyata bundle was bringing to my system. The creaky piano stool and “shh” during the famous 45-second piano chord decay at the end of the Beatles’ “A Day in the Life” is one of my favorite bits of low-level minutiae. Another occurs near the close of Kissin’s performance of Glinka’s “The Lark,” when a stage door slams along the back wall of the auditorium. Although it’s low in volume, the way that door slam ambushes the ear makes me jump every time I hear it. With the Shunyata in the system, it was all the more surprising, thanks to the way the lower noise floor clarified “found-sound” gaffes.

If I were to summarize the strongest apparent “effect” of Shunyata’s Venom/Delta D6 package it would be the way it lifted the music out and away from my loudspeakers. For instance, during Diana Krall’s cover of “L-O-V-E” from Turn Up The Quiet the piano hovered just outside and behind the speaker, but not in a vague or fleeting way. It was firmly grounded in space and sat there utterly immovable. This may the highest compliment I can give the Shunyata Delta D6 and Venom components: They made my rig less about electronics and more about music.

Suffice it to say that there is no guarantee that your results will mirror mine. You may even be of the belief that your system doesn’t need any help in the first place. I hear you. I’ve been there. As I said at the outset, with power products I’ve always been reluctant, but persuadable. So if you’re new to this segment, ask for an in-home audition of Hydra Delta D6 and Venom NR and see if you too are persuaded. If you already own original Venom HC power cords, my advice is to stick with them—they remain one of the best deals in audio. However, if you’re want a fairly major upgrade for a relatively modest expenditure, you may find Shunyata’s latest effort is among its best yet. 

Specs & Pricing

Hydra Delta D6 Power Conditioner and Distributor
Outlets: Six duplex
Dimensions: 17″ x 9″ x 4.6″
Weight: 9.5 lbs.
Price: $2498

Venom 10 NR Power Cord
Length: 1.75m
Price: $498

Venom 12 NR Power Cord
Length: 1.75m
Price: $398

Venom 14 Digital Power Cord
Length: 1.75m
Price: $250

SHUNYATA RESEARCH
26273 Twelve Trees Lane, Ste D
Poulsbo, WA 98370
(360) 598-9935
shunyata.com

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RSX Introduces Power8™ https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/rsx-introduces-power8tm/ https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/rsx-introduces-power8tm/#respond Sat, 18 Apr 2020 00:01:11 +0000 http://localhost/tas_dev/articles/rsx-introduces-power8 Rancho Cucamonga, California — RSX™ Technologies, Inc. will soon start shipping its […]

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Rancho Cucamonga, California — RSX Technologies, Inc. will soon start shipping its Power8, “purist” multi-outlet AC power boxes.“High-performance AC Power cords are one of our major product categories,” said Roger Skoff, CEO and chief designer for the company, “so it’s only natural for us to also offer products to use with them. Wherever there are many more system components to be plugged-in than there are wall outlets, the one product most necessary is a multi-outlet power box. We feel that Power8 will find a place in homes, professional installations and especially retailers who can use them in their showrooms,” continued Skoff.  “And, to be consistent with RSX design standards Power8 had to be as high-quality as the components it powers, and have as little effect on sound quality as possible.” 

RSX’s new Power8™, eight-outlet power box, takes a “purist” approach. It has no on/off switch, pilot light, internal inductors, fuses, or electronics. It also has no surge protection, filtration, or “power conditioning” of any kind. Instead, the Power8 features eight special audio-quality, NEMA AC outlets, spaced far enough apart to easily accommodate High End AC power cords using custom-made connectors. All internal contacts and wiring are heavy-duty red copper with gold-plated terminals. The power inlet uses a Furutech audio-quality IEC connector of either 15A or 20A. Power8 is fully shielded and protected by a heavy, brushed-finish, extruded aluminum case with rubber feet.

Power8 will be available in either a silver or black anodized finish with clear outlets. The list price is $399.00 for the 15A version and $449.00 for the 20A version. The product ship date has been planned for May. The company is currently taking advanced orders.

About RSX Technologies, Inc

RSX Technologies, Inc. is a High-End audio products manufacturer based in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. It specializes in high-quality, high-performance designs for consumers and audio professionals who want to enjoy a dynamic improvement in the performance of their systems.

Contact

To learn more about RSX Technologies, Inc. or to inquire about our products please contact:

Jim Arvanitis

Vice President

RSX Technologies, Inc.

10184 6th Street, Suite A

Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730

Office: (909) 870-9292

Mobile: (760) 500-6161

jim@rsxtech.com

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RSX Introduces Power8™ https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/rsx-introduces-power8tm-1/ https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/rsx-introduces-power8tm-1/#respond Fri, 17 Apr 2020 06:00:00 +0000 http://localhost/tas_dev/articles/rsx-introduces-power8-2 Rancho Cucamonga, California — RSX™ Technologies, Inc. will soon start shipping its […]

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Rancho Cucamonga, California — RSX Technologies, Inc. will soon start shipping its Power8, “purist” multi-outlet AC power boxes. “High-performance AC Power cords are one of our major product categories,” said Roger Skoff, CEO and chief designer for the company, “so it’s only natural for us to also offer products to use with them. Wherever there are many more system components to be plugged-in than there are wall outlets, the one product most necessary is a multi-outlet power box. We feel that Power8 will find a place in homes, professional installations and especially retailers who can use them in their showrooms,” continued Skoff.  “And, to be consistent with RSX design standards Power8 had to be as high-quality as the components it powers, and have as little effect on sound quality as possible.” 

RSX’s new Power8™, eight-outlet power box, takes a “purist” approach. It has no on/off switch, pilot light, internal inductors, fuses, or electronics. It also has no surge protection, filtration, or “power conditioning” of any kind. Instead, the Power8 features eight special audio-quality, NEMA AC outlets, spaced far enough apart to easily accommodate High End AC power cords using custom-made connectors. All internal contacts and wiring are heavy-duty red copper with gold-plated terminals. The power inlet uses a Furutech audio-quality IEC connector of either 15A or 20A. Power8 is fully shielded and protected by a heavy, brushed-finish, extruded aluminum case with rubber feet.

Power8 will be available in either a silver or black anodized finish with clear outlets. The list price is $399.00 for the 15A version and $449.00 for the 20A version. The product ship date has been planned for May. The company is currently taking advanced orders.

About RSX Technologies, Inc.

RSX Technologies, Inc. is a High-End audio products manufacturer based in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. It specializes in high-quality, high-performance designs for consumers and audio professionals who want to enjoy a dynamic improvement in the performance of their systems.

Contact

To learn more about RSX Technologies, Inc. or to inquire about our products please contact:

Jim Arvanitis

Vice President

RSX Technologies, Inc.

10184 6th Street, Suite A

Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730

Office: (909) 870-9292

Mobile: (760) 500-6161

jim@rsxtech.com

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Clarus Launches Duet Power Conditioner for Monoblock Amplifiers https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/clarus-launches-duet-power-conditioner-for-monoblock-amplifiers/ https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/clarus-launches-duet-power-conditioner-for-monoblock-amplifiers/#respond Thu, 14 Nov 2019 16:15:33 +0000 http://localhost/tas_dev/articles/clarus-launches-duet-power-conditioner-for-monoblock-amplifiers The following is a press release issued by Clarus. November […]

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The following is a press release issued by Clarus.

November 14, 2019 — Clarus®, high-end audio cable brand and sister company to Tributaries A/V cables, introduces the Duet, specifically designed for the demands of Monoblock amplifiers from its first-ever line of AC Power Conditioners. The new line brings an entirely new approach to the implementation of filtering systems designed primarily for two-channel audio systems. 

 

The Clarus Approach to Power Conditioning

The Clarus approach represents a radical new way of designing an application specific filtered AC energy delivery system. It is widely accepted that filtering the AC line keeps noise from contaminating the audio signal. It is also common knowledge that some filter designs will choke input current thus limiting peak performance of power amplifiers. Through extensive listening sessions, Clarus has determined that some filter designs used for conditioning analog components while measurably removing noise from the AC supply audibly degrade the component’s musical signal output and restrict the sound from blooming. 

 

Meet Duet

The Duet’s high-performance hospital grade outlets are engineered with advanced materials to ensure electrical contact reliability over time. 2 outlets labeled: HIGH CURRENT incorporate a massive 30A C-Core filter to deliver full power without restricting dynamics to high current equipment like mono block amplifiers.

 

C-Core Technology

The Clarus line of power conditioners are made with proprietary C-Core Technology, which is used in all Analog and High Current filters. C-Core’s high permeability and core loss are hardly affected by mechanical stress due to near-zero magnetostriction – a property of ferromagnetic materials that causes them to change their shape or dimensions during the process of magnetization. Furthermore, its low magnetostriction significantly reduces audible noise emission when the voltage and current applied to the core are in the audible frequency range. No other core keeps your AC signal silent and clean.

 

TMOV

The Duet protects from surges with a highly sophisticated Thermal Metal Oxide Varistors (TMOV). If the surge suppression circuit is compromised the front panel Protection Fault LED will illuminate and the unit will shut down for safety. 

 

Top Panel Safety LED Lights

Ground and Polarity LEDs when lit indicate that the power cord and outlet to which the Duet is connected is in phase and properly grounded.

 

As with all Clarus products, these entirely new designs are evaluated with test instruments, but final decisions are made only after they are subjected to extensive listening tests and comparisons with reference designs, keeping firmly in mind the sound of live music. 

 

The Duet will be available November 15th, 2019 in black for $1,250 US Suggested Retail Pricing.

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Audience Now Shipping Its New adeptResponse T4 and T3 Upgraded Power Conditioners https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/audience-now-shipping-its-new-adeptresponse-t4-and-t3-upgraded-power-conditioners/ https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/audience-now-shipping-its-new-adeptresponse-t4-and-t3-upgraded-power-conditioners/#respond Fri, 11 Oct 2019 18:48:58 +0000 http://localhost/tas_dev/articles/audience-now-shipping-its-new-adeptresponse-t4-and-t3-upgraded-power-conditioners The following is a press release issued by Audience. San […]

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The following is a press release issued by Audience.

San Marcos, CA | October 11, 2019 – Audience today announced the availability of its new adeptResponse T4 and T3 AC power conditioners, upgraded from the company’s previous TSSOX and TSOX models. Available in 2, 6, and 12-outlet versions, the T4 and T3 now feature the company’s newly refined Aura-TR Teflon filter capacitors, which replace the previous Aura-TO version. These capacitors, designed by Audience to be the ultimate premium capacitors, have been improved to provide even greater clarity and dynamic range than those previously used. 

In addition, the T4 adeptResponse power conditioners incorporate Audience’s Hidden Treasure duplex AC outlets, which feature high-purity copper-core, rhodium-plated contacts that provide a tight grip for the most secure connection available. The Hidden Treasure outlets are treated cryogenically and by a proprietary UHVP (ultra-high voltage process) and incorporate RF blocking crystals that prevent unwanted RF noise from entering the AC pathway. The sonic results of these enhancements are improved detail, dynamics, imaging and spatial reproduction. “We feel the Hidden Treasure wall outlets are the finest AC receptacles on the market, bar none,” McDonald noted.

Also, for a more efficient transfer of electrical energy, the T4 power conditioners are further treated with Audience’s UHVP throughout the entire electrical circuit. The UHVP treatment applies upwards of one million volts, in specific pulse combinations, frequencies and amplitudes to align the crystalline structure of the entire conductive path. The entire circuit is also cryogenically treated.

“In designing the T4 and T3 we found that each of the three upgrades separately provided a notably enhanced performance and a more involving musical presentation to a significant degree,” said John McDonald, president of Audience. “In the T4 models, the implementation of all three upgrades achieved a synergy that was remarkably better than what we’d ever heard before.”

The T4 adeptResponse power conditioners also incorporate Audience’s S filter section, comprised of a large-core balun transformer. The S filter circuitry provides additional filtering over a broader frequency spectrum down into the critical 20-30 kHz range, to lower the noise floor even further and enable more low-level musical information to be revealed. The T4 models utilize Audience Au24 SX powerChord 6-nines purity OCC mono-crystal wiring throughout.

The T4 and T3 power conditioners include previous refinements such as state-of-the-art noise filtering, isolation and surge protection welded rather than mechanically fastened connections; gold-plated copper forks that connect the power conditioners’ filter capacitors to the AC duplex outlets; magnetic circuit breaker power switches; carefully engineered internal grounding, and more.

The Audience T4 and T3 adeptResponse power conditioners are currently available at prices starting at $1,850 (aR2p-T3) up to $11,400 (aR12-T4).

The Hidden Treasure AC wall receptacles and the Audience UHVP Ultra-High Voltage Process can also be retrofitted and added to previous Audience adeptResponse power conditioners.

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Sneak Preview: Shunyata Research https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/product-preview-shunyata/ https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/product-preview-shunyata/#respond Thu, 03 Oct 2019 19:52:17 +0000 http://localhost/tas_dev/articles/sneak-preview-shunyata-research My first encounter with Shunyata Research products was about six […]

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My first encounter with Shunyata Research products was about six years ago, in Issue 239, when I reviewed the company’s basic “starter system”—Venom PS8 power distributor, Venom Defender power conditioner, and Venom HC power cords. It was a great system for under $1300 (depending on the number of power cords enlisted). As I concluded then, “In as little time as it takes to plug in a couple power cords, I’ve gone from skeptic to believer. The Shunyata Venom system refined the voicing in my system to an extent I never would have predicted at the outset…for the dedicated among us (without a dedicated AC line) the Venom system represents a cost-effective, plug-and-play, real-world solution.”  

Shunyata has just released a new generation of the Venom Series power cords along with its all-new more affordable reference—the Hydra Delta D6 power distributor from its Performance Series. I’m slated to be reviewing these in a forthcoming issue. For Shunyata this is the first time it has incorporated its best technologies into a package that promises to offer great value in its category. The Hydra Delta D6 is rated at a full 20 amps of continuous current for unfettered power delivery to complex systems, including those with high-powered amplifiers. Rather than using fuses or inferior thermal breakers the D6 sports advanced electromagnetic breakers in addition to massive buss-bars and 8-gauge proprietary ArNi conductors. This robust construction is said to provide exceptional dynamic contrast and bass impact. The Hydra Delta D6 includes Hubbell outlets that use a triple-wipe contact system with broad contact areas to grip a plug from three different sides for improved electrical integrity. The Hydra Delta D6 includes Shunyata Research’s Cable Cradle solution to alleviate the problem of heavy high-end power cables pulling away from an outlet. All chassis panels and internal structures are treated with vibration-dampening materials and many of its electrical components are treated in Shunyata Research’s own advanced computer-controlled cryogenics lab. The outlets are isolated from the chassis with vibration-dampening gaskets that reduce vibration conducted through the AC cables. All internal modules, filters, and electronics are encapsulated in a vibration-absorbent compound. Finally, Hydra Delta D6 retails for $1995 and comes standard with Shunyata Research’s vibration-dampening footers that may be optionally upgraded to SSF-38 stainless steel footers. 

Turning to power cords, Shunyata’s new Venom series includes Venom NR-V12 ($350) with 12-gauge conductors designed for all components; NR-V10 ($450) with its larger 10-gauge conductors that are ideally suited for amps, preamps, DACs, and phonostages; and the Venom 14 Digital for powering digital products including DACs, clocks, and servers. 

As with its original products, the Venom NR Series power cords are still affordably priced and contain many of Shunyata Research’s most advanced technologies and custom-manufactured parts. The Venom NR Series represents Shunyata’s lowest priced power cables to feature built-in filters that deliver measurably lower power-line noise. These new power cords also contain electrostatic shields to reduce radiated noise. The Venom V14 Digital is a spin-off from Shunyata’s medical division, Clear Image Scientific, which designs AC power systems for medical imaging equipment where reducing noise helps doctors to resolve the body’s tiny electrical signals. The Venom V14 Digital, which retails for $200, eliminates parasitic noise generated by components such as music servers, computer devices, and network peripherals. The result is a significant increase in the resolution of audio and video signals. Watch for my full review in an upcoming issue.

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