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transformer conditioning vs isolation

Posted by BS64 (A) on December 18, 2010 at 04:45:06

I have a Tripp-Lite LC1200 that I acquired free of cost. It features xformer-based conditioning and voltage regulation, providing up to 10 amps to a load via two 2-gang outlets.

From what I have gathered, transformer isolation is more expensive with less current capability than that of transformer conditioning.

The LC1200 I have has a xformer hum that is inducing a vibration into the cords I had plugged into it. The assumption is that the vibration, xformer hum, or both, is/are detrimental to a high-end audio system. I have since plugged the cords directly into the wall, and to be honest, I have not noticed a difference. Even when the mini-frig full of beer on the same circuit kicks on.

My question is, is transformer isolation subject to transformer hum, accessory cord vibration and possible subsequent detriment to the sound of the system? If not, why not?

Throughout my 11 years in the hobby, I have yet to hear a "beyond a shadow of a doubt" difference when trying different things with ac power. I haven't spent much time on it, either. But swapping between different homebrew pc recipes is indistinguishable to me. It's not that I wouldn't like to hear a difference, I just haven't. Maybe I'm lucky that I do not find it a worthwhile pursuit?

But I would like to keep my system separated from the mini-frig and the rest of the items on the shared circuit, if for no other reason than for good measure and peace of mind. Is transformer isolation a worthy pursuit considering the cost? I have a Cary 303/300 cdp fed directly into a McIntosh 200wpc ss amp, so I would need a somewhat beefy isolation unit.

And I did not post this question to start a lengthy discussion about ac power, it's path to high-end components, and/or it's affect on sound. Admittedly I have not spent a lot of time auditioning high-end cords or exotic outlets/wallplates. I have made some homebrew pc's of differing designs (braid vs twisted pair with grounded foil/braid shield) and swapped them out on occasion without hearing anything distinguishable. Based on that fact, I lean more towards ic's between preamp and amp. That is where I hear the biggest difference. TIA...

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