General Asylum: REVIEW: Monster Cable HTS 3500 Power Conditioner/Surge Protector by Cory M.

Model:	HTS 3500
Category:	Power Conditioner/Surge Protector
Suggested Retail Price:	$unknown
Description:	Power Conditioner
Manufacturer URL:	Monster Cable
Manufacturer URL:	Monster Cable

Review by Cory M. ( A ) on June 04, 2006 at 19:56:11
IP Address: 208.107.79.49

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for the HTS 3500

This is strictly an audio performance based review. I am using the mk.II version of the HTS-3500. I had been previously using an Adcom ACE 515 AC conditioner on my source components, and while this provided some protection, I did not really notice an audible sound improvement. I spin records and SACDs mostly, and listen often. I was simply astounded by the increase of audio definition with the introduction of the Monster. **One thing I have always noticed with my system is that it sounded WAY better late at night- now it sounds better than it did at 3 a.m., all the time. I have dedicated 20 amp 10 guage circuits to my audio system and this alone made a huge improvment- +3 volts on system startup with only an around 30' run from the breaker panel. With the Monster, I noticed a greater improvment than even this yeilded- a larger soundstage, better seperation of instruments, better dynamics and a quieter backdrop. Overall, a less constricted and confused presentation, and most of all a more enjoyable listening experience.
My speakers are Magnepan IIIAs- very touchy when it comes to anything upstream. I noticed a lot more air and even FASTER sound than before. The ribbons now have even more finesse. I would have to say that the the HTS 3500 II provided a more substantial improvement than a moderate component upgrade. I never knew just how much filth there was on my power lines.
Ok, here are the few (minor, compared to it's benefits) things about the unit that could be improved. When I recieved my unit, its internal voltage meter read low- about one volt as compared to a good multimeter (Amprobe) I tested the line with. Easily calibrated though. The LEDs on the front panel are a little bright, but still look good. The critical connections inside are crimped terminals, and should be directly soldered IMO to provide maximum transfer and avoid corrosion. I pro- golded all the terminals. The main power routing could be point- to- point wiring instead of PCB traces, but the traces are pretty thick, and of course the unit had to meet a price point. The 3500 would not support my high current amp, and I certainly wouldn't ask it to in it's price range.
My amp, btw is a Counterpoint SA-220 hybrid, and works best powered straight from the wall. It just bogs the unit down too much. If there was a reasonably priced stand- alone high power filter or isolation transformer, I would give it a try on the amp.
The HTS 3500 mk. II made a huge improvement to my system, looks right at home with high- end components with it's black/ brushed aluminum front panel and illuminated meter, and exceeded my expectations. Marsh and the gang really know their stuff. I would highly recommend this unit to audiophiles looking to get rid of all that grunge in your AC line.

Product Weakness: - won't support high current amps (but didn't expect it to) - calibration on my meter was off one volt - front panel LEDs a little bright - crimped terminals and PCB traces (yeah, it has to meet a price point I know)
Product Strengths: -equipment protection -SUBSTANTIAL improvement in sound quality -resolution, dynamics, soundstage, range increased -jumbling/ mixing/ confusion, hash, fatigue decreased -looks nice and fits in with quality components -overall build quality is good

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Counterpoint SA-220 hybrid w/ NOS RCA 6CG7 cleartops and 6BW4 rectifier
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Philly Audio Blues 7B w/ W.E. 396As and Brimar 5Z4 rectifier
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Music Hall MMF5 w/ speed mat, Pioneer SACD/ DVD-A player
Speakers:	Magneplanar IIIA, Canton sub.
Cables/Interconnects:	Misc.
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	everything under the sun
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	- won't support high current amps (but didn't expect it to) - calibration on my meter was off one volt - front panel LEDs a little bright - crimped terminals and PCB traces (yeah, it has to meet a price point I know)
Product Strengths:	-equipment protection -SUBSTANTIAL improvement in sound quality -resolution, dynamics, soundstage, range increased -jumbling/ mixing/ confusion, hash, fatigue decreased -looks nice and fits in with quality components -overall build quality is good