I use the Furman IT-Reference 20i in my 2ch system and the Furman Elite 15 Pfi in my theater room. Both rooms also have separate dedicated 20a lines with surge protected/alarmed outlets. The electrical panels are protected by a whole house surge protector. For both systems I conducted blind A/B testing with an older power conditioner. All 7 people present for the test noticed a significant improvement in audio (and video in the HT). Best means I know to protect substantial gear investment.
That’s good to know, thanks! I’ve been torn on what to use for my 7.2.4 after upgrading from AVR to separates with a new Anthem… honestly, I always thought having good quality surge protectors hooked up to different outlets was all I needed. I also think my electric is fairly clean where I Live, BUT given the price point of my system continuing to go up, I’m rethinking that… not to mention, I’m always willing to spend more money for upgrades.. haha
Have you compared the Elite to the Reference? In your 2 channel system, maybe. I'm looking at getting the Elite but maybe the Reference is worth it. Thanks.
Great vid, Furman is awesome and top of the line. For those who said it’s too expensive, definitely understandablec which is why I recommend looking into the Audioquest Powerquest. It’s the same type of technology they use in their very expensive Niagara series which was helped designed by Garth Powell from Furman. They range from $200-$300 and IMO, fall in between Panamax and Furman, they are definitely not snake oil and make a huge difference! I even noticed a difference in AQ’s 2 & 3 prong power cables!
I've been using Furman products in my audio racks for well over 20 years now... with my current setup utilizing a complimentary configuration of one Furman model AR-PRO & one Furman model PL-PRO Series II in each one of my two audio racks. I've been using these for nearly 15 years now as they're currently configured, without any problems or issues whatsoever. FYI: The Furman AR-PRO is a 30-ampere voltage regulator, with a universal voltage input capability, affording global or worldwide use, at any input voltage from 88~264 V.A.C., 50/60~Hz, with a regulated output voltage of 120 (+/-) 2 volts (when operating within the two specified input voltage capture ranges of 88~142 & 170~264 V.A.C., 50/60~Hz, as listed in it's specifications, with a rated output current at a minimum of 22.5 amperes to the full rated 30 amperes, when the voltage input exceeds 120 or 240 V.A.C. The AR-PRO has been discontinued from production for quite some time, and has now been superseded by the P-3600-ARG voltage regulator, of which occupies 50% more rack space (3-RU Height), and also has twice the weight, from 50lbs (22.7kg) for the AR-Pro to a whopping 100 lbs (45.4kg) for the model P-3600-ARG and also has the addition of forced-air cooling (cooling fan on at the rear of the unit), the P-3600 also offers an electrically isolated torroidal transformer, as well as a 30 ampere L-5-30 twist-lock receptacle for full rated output from one output, it also offers additional output banks and USB sockets on the front panel too. Both units are fully capable of operation @120 or 240 V.A.C. nominally, of which makes them versatile options for various electrical configurations, as well as for international use, such as when traveling or touring overseas (South America, Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia or Australia/New Zealand), or operating on North American domestic 240 V.A.C. (the AR-PRO uses a 25-tap torroidal auto-transformer, and is thus not electrically isolating at the outputs from the input, as well as a total of 14 outlets, (12 NEMA 5-20 on the rear) and the balance (NEMA 5-15) on the front panel, next to the high-inrush current magnetic-trip 2-pole circuit breaker switch. The AR-PRO is also convection-cooled (no internal fans), and has a 2 RU Height, with rack handles.) The original manufacturer MSRP for the AR-PRO when sold new, was $4400. The current incarnation of the Furman P-3600-ARG retails with an MSRP of $5K... although you may still be able to find a used or refurbished Furman AR-PRO for resale online for anywhere from $1K to $2K, depending upon its condition. The Furman model PL-PRO Series II is just a very basic single rack unit line conditioner with retractable LED light tubes on the front panel (with dimmer), a tri-color LED bar-graph voltage meter, over/under voltage shutdown protection, and a high-inrush magnetic trip 20 ampere rated circuit-breaker switch with a safety flip-cover on the front panel, and 8 NEMA 5-20 receptacles on the rear, and one switched NEMA 5-15 R on the front, next to the circuit-breaker switch.
I have an PS Audio PPP, old now. It has saved my system from overvoltage several times during the years. Lightning has killed the safety cartridge but saved the components in the rack. Change the cartridge and its back up and working again. Also, kills a lot of the noise on the line. Gives me visually a better picture on the projector which is also connected through it. Best 2300,- Euros I've spent on this hobby throughout the years.
I've got power conditioners protecting my system and wouldn't live without it. Honestly think that's one of the reasons my system sounds better than my friends setups. Dead quiet against pristine sound = performance clarity..simple.
We use these at work for audio/video systems Furman PL-PRO C 20A Power Conditioner with Lights & Voltmeter great product. I run my home theater with these get them from Sweetwater and half the cost.
those noises would be rejected anyway by the transformer and filter capacitors in your audio device. in the past I have used the ground wire as an am and shortwave antenna. however I would recommend a proper surge protector, you can install one on your breaker panel to protect the whole house.
I own a PS Audio P10 power regenerator and I have noticed a huge difference in my system performance. Pricey but worth every penny. Good review Change.
I have the Elite 15PFI which is also a Furman, I would recommend that over the panamax 5400, the panamax is sacrificial and the elite 15pfi is not sacrificial. So they roughly similar in price also.
The peace of mind of having expensive gear on a quality surge protector/conditioner is well worth the cost, regardless of how much or little it actually affects sound quality. I will say that with vintage gear in particular though there can be an objective and VERY obvious benefit, I've had a Furman Elite-15 DM i powering my late 70's stereo system for a few years now and it's almost comical how far it dropped the noise floor; from headache-inducing when closer than ~6ft, to dead silent even with my ear touching the drivers.
I've been an A/V enthusiast for about 20 years. I've learned so much since discovering your channel, your content is amazing! I have had that same panamax for about a year and I will say my audio sounds cleaner. Keep up the good work bro!
Anyone whose a cineophile needs to invest in this equipment. At some level or another. Buy the equipment used or refurbished for God sakes. Power is extremely important. Only thing I'll add to the video. Upgrade your power cables. I noticed a very big improvement after doing this.
I have both the Furman SPR 20i and the Elite 15. I don't have a line noise tester, but with my ears to the speakers with no audio signal is dead silence. This bottomless pit of a noise floor seems to give the bass greater weight and depth while presenting silky smooth mids and highs. No distortion!!!
In my band rehearsals we have a lot of background noise (Main and in-ears) like a deep fryer. I suspect we have very dirty energy. Will a Power Conditioner solve the problem? Thanks and keep up the good work.
I have a1970 pioneer amp that will make most of these crazy new systems sound like hot garbage. 200watts of true power none of today's crap. Pots a smile on anyone's face. Could put money on it
Am confused how - are you using both the units combined, or are you suggesting using just one of them? Years ago, I purchased a predecessor to the 15i, and the dealer said I could later purchase the predecessor to the 20i, and use it to power the 15i to improve the overall condition of my power even more. Is that what you are doing?
Any specific reason you used BOTH of these devices? Would one alone suffice ? and what would be the pros or cons? Also , i'm into Pro Audio Recording studio gear (15k us monitors), What would you recommend? That line noise test has me paranoid now! Eeek!
Use dedicated 20amp circuits. Running 2 voltage regulators and 2 conditioner's (20amp verions).balanced whole system between them. House built in 50s but one of the first things I did was upgrade the electrical and other wiring and whole home protection added. Plan to add a whole home generator soon so no matter weather or blackout house won't lose power. Works off natural gas so maintenance free.
One thing the Furman will do that the panamax will not is the Furman conditioner is a non sacrificial unit where the panamax is. What that means is the Furman can dissipate big power spikes and not kill the unit where the panamax will not. I work in the AV industry and have had direct training from Furman and Panamax reps.
High end power conditioners do make a difference. I sold the trade ins for a yamaha dealership for years. I got to hear about every yamaha model in my HT for years. i got the chance to audition a monster high end model. Cant remember the model but this one had a huge transformer and continously keept wall voltage costant as well as noise cleanup. It made a noticable difference in the Yamaha RX series. Made them sound clean simular to the zseries. This was same system alot of deaalerships used to demo Yamaha at time. It was about a $2k model. This didn't make as much differece on the higher end component stuff is why you are heqaring only subtle differences.
Reading these comments, you still have to debate whether it makes a difference or not after spending that much money on the equipment proofs it's a scam.
It seems that the Panamax is doing a great job and why would anyone buy more expensive boxes. Would be of value to see what the measurements were. you produce really great videos. By the way I have a panamax end it seems fine did buy voltage regulator Panamax and it hummed so I returned it. I guess the real question for me is what do the power supplies do that already exist in the various components I have. Don't the separate power supplies do something to incoming AC current? For example, clean it up?
I have a Panamax and again it might be that placebo affect but my Samsung TV seemed to take on a cleaner picture. I’m more interested in the surge protection than anything else.
A well designed DC power supply (found in most high end audio equipment) will eliminate 90% of that external AM audible noise. The biggest problem would be AM radio noise and induced noise generated by interconnecting the equipment itself (ground loops) and noise from the osc. in class-D amps.
I honestly think it depends on the electrics in your house. Fortunately, I have a new build that's been built to UK standard and I get no noise at all. But if you have an older house or very old electric wiring (some in the UK can be decades old) then these could help. Maybe not Snake Oil, but certainly horrendously overpriced to solve a simple problem.
Hi Shane did you plug the power amps into the furman or are the power amps straight to the wall. I was told to power the power amps straight off the wall just wondering how you hooked it up
I bought the it-reference 20i online from an estate sale. When I got it, I noticed my 8 symmetrical balanced outlets didn't work, but my 4 other outlets works just fine. There's no info on the it-reference 20i anywhere.
Hello sir, since I'm not expert I would like to get an advice for a budget power condeitoner, cable and wall socket. Right now i have weiduka ac 8.8 but and after i used it i keep getting a click sound every time i run something, only before an audio start, didn't get it with the old normal conditoner, rather than that i have no issue and my electric is good. My setup: denon 3500 with kef q750 speakers, no amp and there is no ground in wall, old building.
Was one box plugged into the other? I had heard that this is actually a dangerous thing to do with surge protectors. Any comments welcome on that score. Also, if you were going to get only one, how would you decide between the two units?
@@therealshanelee Do they both have surge protection? And is that a problem if they are in sequence? Or did you use each for a different kind of component?
I don’t understand- are these two devices supposed to connect to each other?? does the ref15i plug into the SPI? Thought it was bad to connect a power conditioner to another power conditioner? Someone please clarify. Ty!
I have a Monster and a Panamax but these are way more expensive. The markup on these is about as bad as cables. Bill Low lives in 5 million dollar condo in a Shopping center. He'll add to his fortune with his Niagra Conditioners. Garth Powell designed most of these including the Audioquest and Furman. You could open these cabinets and show us the insides. And I believe some guy like Mr. Carlson's Lab with every bit of test equipment could really test their effectiveness. The best conditioners are probably the PS Audio regenerators. Those take the AC, convert it to DC and then reconvert to AC. You can even change the frequency of the AC power.
Maybe manufactures can put a 1/8 of this power conditioner inside it's amps and receivers. This way each device will have it own power conditioner instead of buying a unit that will take space and will be able to hook up 4-6-8 things to it.
I have a set of JBL 306p speaker monitors and they sound fantastic. But there is a constant hiss no matter what he audio level. Would a power conditioner help with this constant noise coming out? I have it plugged into a standard power strip and it's an old building.
Hey Shane. If I wanted to just have one of these JUST for NAD M17, music server, Oppo 203..which one of the Furmans would you go with? Right now I have a PS Audio 300 that I want to eventually get rid of. Your thoughts? Thanks.
is it true you have to replace them every so many years? also, i having mine helps to know when the power is getting low to my house in the summer and everyone on the block has their AC on and im getting 109 - 111volts so i usually dont turn my gear on until the voltage is higher.
I've had my Panamax 5400 for years...and also had the same low and fluctuating voltage...the automatic voltage regulator keeps it at 119-125...24 hours a day....
Does the voltage regulator have an audidle hum or buzz at all? I have a Panamax 5400-pm and it annoys me with its constant hum as it keeps the capacitors charged.
I have the Furman Elite 20 plugged in to dedicated 20amp outlet. I measured EMI noise level with the EMI meter and found the Furman has more noise the my wall outlets. The Amplifier bank was around 50mV and the other two digital banks were around 240mV. Do you know why?
hello sir, sorry to bother you but i would like your advice on a Power Conditioners for budget 100$ - 200$ including a cable that gonna make a diffrence from a reguler Power Conditioners, i found ( BADA LB-5500 ) with good price but an expert opinion alwyes worth to listen. ( only connecting AVR,Subwoofer,Tv and media players )
Will a conditioner help with the static I get in one of my speakers from my new amp? I re-routed all my cables and wires because the 20 amp power cord from the amp was making so much noise,in my speakers but now all is gone but one.
Actually, once the blue light in front of the unit begins to dim you send it back to Furman for repair. The whole unit does not need replacement, just repair, and Furman does 5 year warranty
I was thinking about running a Furman elite 15pfi for the reciver, 4k player, aircom t10, and projector. Is that big enough to also protect the monolith 7x200 amp as well? Or how do I protect the amp as well as powered subwoofers around the room?
Firstly if you want a high end power conditioner that very high value equipment will be connected to only really have one option and that it a type of UPS called a "Double / Delta online conversion" These are normally used for servers and data centers. They are not cheap. They will however protect you from brown out's "sudden voltage drop" and surges "sudden increase in voltage. They also protect you from some other conditions all in one device. This is not the type of UPS that you will find at an electronics store. You would only find one at a commercial IT supply company. There are generally three types of UPS systems and the "Double / Delta online conversion" type sadly are most sophisticated and thus the most expensive. The problem is that "dirty power" can describe many conditions not just the high and low voltage conditions. You also have radio interference, poor grounding, noise from induced current caused by nearby wiring and some other more rare conditions. If budget is not a constraint for you then a "Double / Delta online conversion" UPS if the device you want. You need to be aware that these units are fairly large and very heavy. If you already have a cheaper type of UPS or have a good quality stable mains supply you can make a power conditioner for well under $100 excluding the housing. A power conditioner will consist of the following component parts. I am not going to list what they all do or this post will be 2 pages long...... To make a power conditioner you will need..:> MOV's of correct rating (this is what is built into an off the shelf surge protector) A common mode AC filter Ferrite wound RF filter A two stage mains inducted noise filter A single common good quality ground connection The above is the very minimum of what you will need. You will find information on UPS systems and building mains conditioning filters on youtube. However !!!! PLEASE - NO MATTER WHO SAYS SO DO NOT CUT THE GROUNDING CABLE / EARTH ON YOUR EQUIPMENT !!! some noise problems can be removed by cutting the ground, this is normally when you have a ground loop but at the same time you RISK YOUR LIFE by doing this. If you have ever seen a singer receive a nasty shock from a microphone or someone get a nasty shock when playing a corded electric guitar this is highly likely to be caused by someone cutting the mains ground / earth connection. The noise problem is not created by the earth or ground the problem will be somewhere else. Far to many people in the audio industry have been killed or seriously injured by this highly dangerous practice. Getting sued or loosing your life is not !
Sweet video man, ive got the isotek Aquarius gen3. And I noticed the exact same thing as you. I found the overall noise to be a little quieter, and that I could hear a little bit more details out of the sourounds. I don't regret my purchase. But if I could do it again, I probably would spend my money on something else in my system. (AUD$2500 also bought a couple fansy isotek power cables to replace the cheap and nasties)
Forget about companies claim about "clean electricity"! Yet if you are living in an area with too many lightening and the danger of power surge etc. then you need some electric protection for your equipment. In this case, see the technical review on RUclips: ruclips.net/video/flkN8luLkK4/видео.html
It's not snake oil and not believe or not. They work either some people like it or not. Peolple say that, becouse they don't "want" for these devices to work for an excuse to themselfs not to buy or they "don't know" how to hear or see differences. Having said that, there are always people that taking it too far with these things. I am saving for a really good device for power. I recently change 2 power outlets in the wall and some cabling and circuit breakers for the room of the future home cinema will be put and saw a minor improovement in sound especially and picture little more less, but visible if you know what to look. I only have half the system, sony af8 55 oppo 203 with some quality cabling and an old basic but really good small filter from isotek. I magine with a filter like that...wow.
Man, you’re acting like a complete shill! Several people have asked, and you never replied: which box is connected to the wall, and how is it connected to the other box?? And for what purpose instead of using them individually??
You need to pay me for the answer. Send me a donation. Click on the $Thanks button and I'll give you the answer. That's what us Shills need. Money. Now make it happen.
Pretty expensive for a simple line filter that is usually not need. How can you say that the protection works when you didn't test it or not even show us the interior? You must be paid by this company!
You guys and your " you must be paid" crowd. Wtf is wrong with you? How about you go spend your money and report back with a video you 🤡 otherwise 🤐 and move on.
Shane, disciple of Gene (Audioholics). Measurements are a must. Great job. Power surge and conditioner are a must, Panamax will do the trick for most of us. If you're into true hi-fi two channel with Tube amps and the such then the Furman are the minimum level. For those of us in high lighting frequency zones, you must add a surge protector by your power company at the meter. Now the need for exotic speaker cables is truly snake oil!
Let's do a very simple/honest EXPERIMENT: Without playing anything, increase the volume of your DAC/ Preamp in addition to the volume of the amplifier (if you are using passive speakers) or that of the active speakers (which have built in amps)-- in most cases you would hear a static hiss/ humming sound if you get too close to the speakers. But the point is that if you are to listen to any music at such a maximum volume you might blow up your eardrums before breaking the speakers! So, let be more realistic: Now, once more. without playing anything, decrease the volume to a reasonable degree, which is appropriate for your small room, and if your audio system is OK you can hardly hear any noise from the speakers even if you put your ears against them. It shows that you do NOT need any power conditioner/ filter unless you are stricken by Audiophile obsessions (of loving equipment more than musical joy), or you have a recording studio which entails PERFECT conditions! (P.S. Power Conditioners are different from simple power strips protecting your equipment against power surge, etc.)
This was my exact question! My studio is in my childhood home which is an old farmhouse. The wiring has to be ancient, and I've noticed that I can never get a "dead quiet" sound recording audio. This review and comment really clarified things, so thanks guys
🤦♂️$2,000 for a surge protector. ...🤭🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣i smell you got rip off bra🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣Tell furman you want your money back. The electronics inside this units dont cost this much. So yes this is a way to rip off the people that always want their neighbors to see they got the better equipment and most espensive . A monster surge protector does the same thing for $399 and now can be found use for $150.
I use the Furman IT-Reference 20i in my 2ch system and the Furman Elite 15 Pfi in my theater room. Both rooms also have separate dedicated 20a lines with surge protected/alarmed outlets. The electrical panels are protected by a whole house surge protector. For both systems I conducted blind A/B testing with an older power conditioner. All 7 people present for the test noticed a significant improvement in audio (and video in the HT). Best means I know to protect substantial gear investment.
That’s good to know, thanks!
I’ve been torn on what to use for my 7.2.4 after upgrading from AVR to separates with a new Anthem… honestly, I always thought having good quality surge protectors hooked up to different outlets was all I needed. I also think my electric is fairly clean where I Live, BUT given the price point of my system continuing to go up, I’m rethinking that… not to mention, I’m always willing to spend more money for upgrades.. haha
Have you compared the Elite to the Reference? In your 2 channel system, maybe. I'm looking at getting the Elite but maybe the Reference is worth it. Thanks.
Great vid, Furman is awesome and top of the line. For those who said it’s too expensive, definitely understandablec which is why I recommend looking into the Audioquest Powerquest. It’s the same type of technology they use in their very expensive Niagara series which was helped designed by Garth Powell from Furman. They range from $200-$300 and IMO, fall in between Panamax and Furman, they are definitely not snake oil and make a huge difference! I even noticed a difference in AQ’s 2 & 3 prong power cables!
I've been using Furman products in my audio racks for well over 20 years now... with my current setup utilizing a complimentary configuration of one Furman model AR-PRO & one Furman model PL-PRO Series II in each one of my two audio racks.
I've been using these for nearly 15 years now as they're currently configured, without any problems or issues whatsoever.
FYI: The Furman AR-PRO is a 30-ampere voltage regulator, with a universal voltage input capability, affording global or worldwide use, at any input voltage from 88~264 V.A.C., 50/60~Hz, with a regulated output voltage of 120 (+/-) 2 volts (when operating within the two specified input voltage capture ranges of 88~142 & 170~264 V.A.C., 50/60~Hz, as listed in it's specifications, with a rated output current at a minimum of 22.5 amperes to the full rated 30 amperes, when the voltage input exceeds 120 or 240 V.A.C.
The AR-PRO has been discontinued from production for quite some time, and has now been superseded by the P-3600-ARG voltage regulator, of which occupies 50% more rack space (3-RU Height), and also has twice the weight, from 50lbs (22.7kg) for the AR-Pro to a whopping 100 lbs (45.4kg) for the model P-3600-ARG and also has the addition of forced-air cooling (cooling fan on at the rear of the unit), the P-3600 also offers an electrically isolated torroidal transformer, as well as a 30 ampere L-5-30 twist-lock receptacle for full rated output from one output, it also offers additional output banks and USB sockets on the front panel too. Both units are fully capable of operation @120 or 240 V.A.C. nominally, of which makes them versatile options for various electrical configurations, as well as for international use, such as when traveling or touring overseas (South America, Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia or Australia/New Zealand), or operating on North American domestic 240 V.A.C.
(the AR-PRO uses a 25-tap torroidal auto-transformer, and is thus not electrically isolating at the outputs from the input, as well as a total of 14 outlets, (12 NEMA 5-20 on the rear) and the balance (NEMA 5-15) on the front panel, next to the high-inrush current magnetic-trip 2-pole circuit breaker switch. The AR-PRO is also convection-cooled (no internal fans), and has a 2 RU Height, with rack handles.) The original manufacturer MSRP for the AR-PRO when sold new, was $4400.
The current incarnation of the Furman P-3600-ARG retails with an MSRP of $5K... although you may still be able to find a used or refurbished Furman AR-PRO for resale online for anywhere from $1K to $2K, depending upon its condition.
The Furman model PL-PRO Series II is just a very basic single rack unit line conditioner with retractable LED light tubes on the front panel (with dimmer), a tri-color LED bar-graph voltage meter, over/under voltage shutdown protection, and a high-inrush magnetic trip 20 ampere rated circuit-breaker switch with a safety flip-cover on the front panel, and 8 NEMA 5-20 receptacles on the rear, and one switched NEMA 5-15 R on the front, next to the circuit-breaker switch.
I have an PS Audio PPP, old now. It has saved my system from overvoltage several times during the years. Lightning has killed the safety cartridge but saved the components in the rack. Change the cartridge and its back up and working again. Also, kills a lot of the noise on the line. Gives me visually a better picture on the projector which is also connected through it. Best 2300,- Euros I've spent on this hobby throughout the years.
I've got power conditioners protecting my system and wouldn't live without it.
Honestly think that's one of the reasons my system sounds better than my friends setups. Dead quiet against pristine sound = performance clarity..simple.
Agree
We use these at work for audio/video systems Furman PL-PRO C 20A Power Conditioner with Lights & Voltmeter great product. I run my home theater with these get them from Sweetwater and half the cost.
those noises would be rejected anyway by the transformer and filter capacitors in your audio device. in the past I have used the ground wire as an am and shortwave antenna. however I would recommend a proper surge protector, you can install one on your breaker panel to protect the whole house.
I have the panamax 5400 got it on sale. I have because of the constant fluctuation of electric current in my area. So far its been good!
Same here....plus it made the sound and video 25-30 better...I got a new upgraded tv and a/v receiver it seems....
I own a PS Audio P10 power regenerator and I have noticed a huge difference in my system performance. Pricey but worth every penny. Good review Change.
I have the Elite 15PFI which is also a Furman, I would recommend that over the panamax 5400, the panamax is sacrificial and the elite 15pfi is not sacrificial. So they roughly similar in price also.
I have a Furman power conditioner and honestly can’t tell the difference. At the very least, I hope it will protect my equipment from power surges.
Don't feel bad, no one else can either...
Confirmation bias runs deep.
poserwannabe Exactly!
The peace of mind of having expensive gear on a quality surge protector/conditioner is well worth the cost, regardless of how much or little it actually affects sound quality. I will say that with vintage gear in particular though there can be an objective and VERY obvious benefit, I've had a Furman Elite-15 DM i powering my late 70's stereo system for a few years now and it's almost comical how far it dropped the noise floor; from headache-inducing when closer than ~6ft, to dead silent even with my ear touching the drivers.
I've been an A/V enthusiast for about 20 years. I've learned so much since discovering your channel, your content is amazing! I have had that same panamax for about a year and I will say my audio sounds cleaner. Keep up the good work bro!
Thanks!
Anyone whose a cineophile needs to invest in this equipment. At some level or another. Buy the equipment used or refurbished for God sakes. Power is extremely important. Only thing I'll add to the video. Upgrade your power cables. I noticed a very big improvement after doing this.
I have both the Furman SPR 20i and the Elite 15. I don't have a line noise tester, but with my ears to the speakers with no audio signal is dead silence. This bottomless pit of a noise floor seems to give the bass greater weight and depth while presenting silky smooth mids and highs. No distortion!!!
How do you use both ?
In my band rehearsals we have a lot of background noise (Main and in-ears) like a deep fryer. I suspect we have very dirty energy. Will a Power Conditioner solve the problem? Thanks and keep up the good work.
These two devices cost more than my entire set up lol
You get what you pay for man...
Oh my damn, u right. Lol
I have a1970 pioneer amp that will make most of these crazy new systems sound like hot garbage. 200watts of true power none of today's crap. Pots a smile on anyone's face. Could put money on it
Am confused how - are you using both the units combined, or are you suggesting using just one of them? Years ago, I purchased a predecessor to the 15i, and the dealer said I could later purchase the predecessor to the 20i, and use it to power the 15i to improve the overall condition of my power even more. Is that what you are doing?
Any specific reason you used BOTH of these devices? Would one alone suffice ? and what would be the pros or cons? Also , i'm into Pro Audio Recording studio gear (15k us monitors), What would you recommend? That line noise test has me paranoid now! Eeek!
Use dedicated 20amp circuits. Running 2 voltage regulators and 2 conditioner's (20amp verions).balanced whole system between them. House built in 50s but one of the first things I did was upgrade the electrical and other wiring and whole home protection added. Plan to add a whole home generator soon so no matter weather or blackout house won't lose power. Works off natural gas so maintenance free.
Good stuff as always on this channel!
I’m going crazy to figure out to what to get since I’ve never used conditioners before..
One thing the Furman will do that the panamax will not is the Furman conditioner is a non sacrificial unit where the panamax is. What that means is the Furman can dissipate big power spikes and not kill the unit where the panamax will not. I work in the AV industry and have had direct training from Furman and Panamax reps.
Thanks, you answered my question at 8:00 YES, not $2,200 quieter!
Thanks for the vid been looking for a video like this.
High end power conditioners do make a difference. I sold the trade ins for a yamaha dealership for years. I got to hear about every yamaha model in my HT for years. i got the chance to audition a monster high end model. Cant remember the model but this one had a huge transformer and continously keept wall voltage costant as well as noise cleanup. It made a noticable difference in the Yamaha RX series. Made them sound clean simular to the zseries. This was same system alot of deaalerships used to demo Yamaha at time. It was about a $2k model. This didn't make as much differece on the higher end component stuff is why you are heqaring only subtle differences.
Reading these comments, you still have to debate whether it makes a difference or not after spending that much money on the equipment proofs it's a scam.
It seems that the Panamax is doing a great job and why would anyone buy more expensive boxes. Would be of value to see what the measurements were. you produce really great videos. By the way I have a panamax end it seems fine did buy voltage regulator Panamax and it hummed so I returned it. I guess the real question for me is what do the power supplies do that already exist in the various components I have. Don't the separate power supplies do something to incoming AC current? For example, clean it up?
Yep - Furman is highend $$$ - I still have my Panamax and its still doing the job for me :)
I have a Panamax and again it might be that placebo affect but my Samsung TV seemed to take on a cleaner picture. I’m more interested in the surge protection than anything else.
A well designed DC power supply (found in most high end audio equipment) will eliminate 90% of that external AM audible noise. The biggest problem would be AM radio noise and induced noise generated by interconnecting the equipment itself (ground loops) and noise from the osc. in class-D amps.
“But for those folks out there that dropped a lot of SPARE CHANGE...”
Peter Griffin: AAAAAHHH HE SAID IT, HE SAID IT!
Sarlacc Breath I see we have a man of culture here
Nathan Lunsford my pinkie finger is always fully erect while sipping my tea. Very highbrow indeed
I honestly think it depends on the electrics in your house. Fortunately, I have a new build that's been built to UK standard and I get no noise at all. But if you have an older house or very old electric wiring (some in the UK can be decades old) then these could help. Maybe not Snake Oil, but certainly horrendously overpriced to solve a simple problem.
As soon as you displayed the supplied power cord for the furman, I knew this wasn't a serious contender!
Hi Shane did you plug the power amps into the furman or are the power amps straight to the wall. I was told to power the power amps straight off the wall just wondering how you hooked it up
Amps into the Furman otherwise what's the point of having them.
After installation. Did your electricity bill go up?
Nope
Hey man these kinds of things are going to be less noticeable in a home theatre setup then a hifi stereo setup. What speakers are you running ?
Not all homes are built the same. Some people will get a ton of benefit with these conditioners. Some won't.
Everyone will lol
What type of homes? Like old homes or in my instance a brand new home less than 3 years
I bought the it-reference 20i online from an estate sale. When I got it, I noticed my 8 symmetrical balanced outlets didn't work, but my 4 other outlets works just fine. There's no info on the it-reference 20i anywhere.
Just wondering, do you plug the reference 15 into the other one? Or do you use them both separately? I'm thinking about getting a reference model.
No answer on two years 😢
Hello sir, since I'm not expert I would like to get an advice for a budget power condeitoner, cable and wall socket.
Right now i have weiduka ac 8.8 but and after i used it i keep getting a click sound every time i run something, only before an audio start, didn't get it with the old normal conditoner, rather than that i have no issue and my electric is good.
My setup: denon 3500 with kef q750 speakers, no amp and there is no ground in wall, old building.
Was one box plugged into the other? I had heard that this is actually a dangerous thing to do with surge protectors. Any comments welcome on that score.
Also, if you were going to get only one, how would you decide between the two units?
Ones a voltage regulator the other is a conditioner.
@@therealshanelee Do they both have surge protection? And is that a problem if they are in sequence? Or did you use each for a different kind of component?
Would like to see the measurements on the 15i by itself to see if the 20a is necessary
Do you really need both? Just thinking the Ref 15 i could get by with just my tv and 2ch HiFi /HT setup.
You'll be fine with just the 15i.
SpareChange thx for the reply pare. Will be looking more into power conditioners
Great video Shane! I’m literally considering an upgrade over my standard Rocketfish power strip
Should there even be a consideration over a rocketfish? 😳 😁
😂😂
I read Snake Oil right off the start! Thanks for the vid! Very informative!
I don’t understand- are these two devices supposed to connect to each other?? does the ref15i plug into the SPI? Thought it was bad to connect a power conditioner to another power conditioner? Someone please clarify. Ty!
I have a Monster and a Panamax but these are way more expensive. The markup on these is about as bad as cables. Bill Low lives in 5 million dollar condo in a Shopping center. He'll add to his fortune with his Niagra Conditioners. Garth Powell designed most of these including the Audioquest and Furman. You could open these cabinets and show us the insides. And I believe some guy like Mr. Carlson's Lab with every bit of test equipment could really test their effectiveness. The best conditioners are probably the PS Audio regenerators. Those take the AC, convert it to DC and then reconvert to AC. You can even change the frequency of the AC power.
Oh yeah Shane I have both and loving them everyday
Awesome!
I got the panamax MB1500 thanks @sparechange really like it but video really makes me feel even better
Maybe manufactures can put a 1/8 of this power conditioner inside it's amps and receivers. This way each device will have it own power conditioner instead of buying a unit that will take space and will be able to hook up 4-6-8 things to it.
you'd want to hear a difference for 3k..be good to see a comparison with those cheaper furman units
What would be the benefit of the 20i on a normal outlet with a tv, sound bar, pc and game console? Is it worth it over say a panamax 5 series? Thanks
I have a set of JBL 306p speaker monitors and they sound fantastic. But there is a constant hiss no matter what he audio level. Would a power conditioner help with this constant noise coming out? I have it plugged into a standard power strip and it's an old building.
It's probably your amp or receiver.
Hey Shane. If I wanted to just have one of these JUST for NAD M17, music server, Oppo 203..which one of the Furmans would you go with? Right now I have a PS Audio 300 that I want to eventually get rid of. Your thoughts? Thanks.
Reference 15i will do just fine.
@@therealshanelee Thank you!!
When your ready to buy let me know I can set you up.
@@therealshanelee COOL!! Thanks!
is it true you have to replace them every so many years? also, i having mine helps to know when the power is getting low to my house in the summer and everyone on the block has their AC on and im getting 109 - 111volts so i usually dont turn my gear on until the voltage is higher.
I've had my Panamax 5400 for years...and also had the same low and fluctuating voltage...the automatic voltage regulator keeps it at 119-125...24 hours a day....
Does the voltage regulator have an audidle hum or buzz at all?
I have a Panamax 5400-pm and it annoys me with its constant hum as it keeps the capacitors charged.
Is there a unit that has a on-off switch for individual outlets, I have several bits of gear with no power switch. this would be a welcome feature
I have the Furman Elite 20 plugged in to dedicated 20amp outlet. I measured EMI noise level with the EMI meter and found the Furman has more noise the my wall outlets. The Amplifier bank was around 50mV and the other two digital banks were around 240mV. Do you know why?
hello sir, sorry to bother you but i would like your advice on a Power Conditioners for budget 100$ - 200$ including a cable that gonna make a diffrence from a reguler Power Conditioners, i found ( BADA LB-5500 ) with good price but an expert opinion alwyes worth to listen. ( only connecting AVR,Subwoofer,Tv and media players )
Richard Gray Power Company...two RGPC 400 Pro II's. Two dedicated 20's. Have the Furman 10 outlet extension...
They don't have voltage regulating features on them. Only the pro series models have it, it says it in Furman website.
Did you happen to watch what was discussed in this video.
@@therealshanelee Yes I did of course. Very misleading on Furman website. You may check the spec. on their website.
@@oliverlee9524 this is literally a voltage regulating device. I'm not sure what your referring too.
Middle Alantic power Conditioner what u had display and Lowe's power Conditioner
The panamax you have is it the 5400? Looking at getting one but not furman prices lol
Will a conditioner help with the static I get in one of my speakers from my new amp? I re-routed all my cables and wires because the 20 amp power cord from the amp was making so much noise,in my speakers but now all is gone but one.
Since my amp is on a 20A cord the Furman SPR-20i should be the one to get in my case?
Great video once again...
One of the bad thing is remember after a few years it has to be replaced , the electrical components inside wear ,
If you don’t believe me look it up
Actually, once the blue light in front of the unit begins to dim you send it back to Furman for repair. The whole unit does not need replacement, just repair, and Furman does 5 year warranty
I was thinking about running a Furman elite 15pfi for the reciver, 4k player, aircom t10, and projector. Is that big enough to also protect the monolith 7x200 amp as well? Or how do I protect the amp as well as powered subwoofers around the room?
The 15i will be great for that.
@@therealshanelee how would you protect the subwoofers with plate amps around the room?
Extension cords
Im looking for like "panamax power conditioner" rack mounten, but only find US, Im living in sweden,, any tips, like a europa model.
Firstly if you want a high end power conditioner that very high value equipment will be connected to only really have one option and that it a type of UPS called a "Double / Delta online conversion" These are normally used for servers and data centers. They are not cheap. They will however protect you from brown out's "sudden voltage drop" and surges "sudden increase in voltage. They also protect you from some other conditions all in one device. This is not the type of UPS that you will find at an electronics store. You would only find one at a commercial IT supply company. There are generally three types of UPS systems and the "Double / Delta online conversion" type sadly are most sophisticated and thus the most expensive.
The problem is that "dirty power" can describe many conditions not just the high and low voltage conditions. You also have radio interference, poor grounding, noise from induced current caused by nearby wiring and some other more rare conditions.
If budget is not a constraint for you then a "Double / Delta online conversion" UPS if the device you want. You need to be aware that these units are fairly large and very heavy.
If you already have a cheaper type of UPS or have a good quality stable mains supply you can make a power conditioner for well under $100 excluding the housing. A power conditioner will consist of the following component parts. I am not going to list what they all do or this post will be 2 pages long...... To make a power conditioner you will need..:>
MOV's of correct rating (this is what is built into an off the shelf surge protector)
A common mode AC filter
Ferrite wound RF filter
A two stage mains inducted noise filter
A single common good quality ground connection
The above is the very minimum of what you will need. You will find information on UPS systems and building mains conditioning filters on youtube.
However !!!! PLEASE - NO MATTER WHO SAYS SO DO NOT CUT THE GROUNDING CABLE / EARTH ON YOUR EQUIPMENT !!! some noise problems can be removed by cutting the ground, this is normally when you have a ground loop but at the same time you RISK YOUR LIFE by doing this. If you have ever seen a singer receive a nasty shock from a microphone or someone get a nasty shock when playing a corded electric guitar this is highly likely to be caused by someone cutting the mains ground / earth connection. The noise problem is not created by the earth or ground the problem will be somewhere else. Far to many people in the audio industry have been killed or seriously injured by this highly dangerous practice. Getting sued or loosing your life is not !
Sounds good l have Furman PM PRO DM 20amp
Sweet video man, ive got the isotek Aquarius gen3. And I noticed the exact same thing as you. I found the overall noise to be a little quieter, and that I could hear a little bit more details out of the sourounds. I don't regret my purchase. But if I could do it again, I probably would spend my money on something else in my system. (AUD$2500 also bought a couple fansy isotek power cables to replace the cheap and nasties)
I'll have to check them out.
furman and middle Atlantic are the best
No surprise here, audiophiles have known the benefits of clean power for decades. This includes the benefits of quality power cables.
Setting up Clean power outlets throughout the entire home first before ever buying Furman.
You mention placebo a few times. That's all it is. I have expensive kit which is dead silent. These cannot drop noise floor, only components can.
Forget about companies claim about "clean electricity"! Yet if you are living in an area with too many lightening and the danger of power surge etc. then you need some electric protection for your equipment. In this case, see the technical review on RUclips:
ruclips.net/video/flkN8luLkK4/видео.html
Are both needed or can the 15i be used alone?
You can use any stand alone.
@@therealshanelee Thanks. What made you decide to change?
@@tylee5291 if I can afford to get better sound I'll try it out.
@@therealshanelee That's what it's all about!!!
But if you spend 100 bucks you can get PC battery bank that cleans all electricity even better.
Panamax mr5100 is what I have been using and is alot cheaper. Any plans on reviewing the new arcam av40 ?
It's next in cue.
@@therealshanelee Awesome, looking at getting this!!
It's not snake oil and not believe or not. They work either some people like it or not. Peolple say that, becouse they don't "want" for these devices to work for an excuse to themselfs not to buy or they "don't know" how to hear or see differences. Having said that, there are always people that taking it too far with these things. I am saving for a really good device for power. I recently change 2 power outlets in the wall and some cabling and circuit breakers for the room of the future home cinema will be put and saw a minor improovement in sound especially and picture little more less, but visible if you know what to look. I only have half the system, sony af8 55 oppo 203 with some quality cabling and an old basic but really good small filter from isotek. I magine with a filter like that...wow.
8:44 'I bont pay for these myself' Sorry what did you say? Was that 'I dont pay for these myself?' Ie. they were given to you free?
🤦🏻♂️
Panamax vs APC AVR/Line conditioners? Which ones better?
Neither. This one.
Over three minutes into the video, and you’ve provided zero information or even a reference to the title of the video.
A high quality power cord from the wall, can upgrade the performance of any component and conditioners.
Man, you’re acting like a complete shill! Several people have asked, and you never replied: which box is connected to the wall, and how is it connected to the other box?? And for what purpose instead of using them individually??
You need to pay me for the answer. Send me a donation. Click on the $Thanks button and I'll give you the answer. That's what us Shills need. Money. Now make it happen.
Pretty expensive for a simple line filter that is usually not need. How can you say that the protection works when you didn't test it or not even show us the interior? You must be paid by this company!
You guys and your " you must be paid" crowd. Wtf is wrong with you? How about you go spend your money and report back with a video you 🤡 otherwise 🤐 and move on.
Everyone I’ve seen using these EMI meters are using them the wrong way even tho it’s written on the device itself
Goya Banned, Goya Under Lord Permanent Ban
Shane, disciple of Gene (Audioholics). Measurements are a must. Great job. Power surge and conditioner are a must, Panamax will do the trick for most of us. If you're into true hi-fi two channel with Tube amps and the such then the Furman are the minimum level. For those of us in high lighting frequency zones, you must add a surge protector by your power company at the meter.
Now the need for exotic speaker cables is truly snake oil!
WTF
People play RUclips vids w/earbuds & headphones on.
You didn't give a warning bout the LOUD distortion!
lol
Helpful much
Let's do a very simple/honest EXPERIMENT: Without playing anything, increase the volume of your DAC/ Preamp in addition to the volume of the amplifier (if you are using passive speakers) or that of the active speakers (which have built in amps)-- in most cases you would hear a static hiss/ humming sound if you get too close to the speakers. But the point is that if you are to listen to any music at such a maximum volume you might blow up your eardrums before breaking the speakers! So, let be more realistic: Now, once more. without playing anything, decrease the volume to a reasonable degree, which is appropriate for your small room, and if your audio system is OK you can hardly hear any noise from the speakers even if you put your ears against them. It shows that you do NOT need any power conditioner/ filter unless you are stricken by Audiophile obsessions (of loving equipment more than musical joy), or you have a recording studio which entails PERFECT conditions! (P.S. Power Conditioners are different from simple power strips protecting your equipment against power surge, etc.)
MmmHmm
This was my exact question! My studio is in my childhood home which is an old farmhouse. The wiring has to be ancient, and I've noticed that I can never get a "dead quiet" sound recording audio. This review and comment really clarified things, so thanks guys
😂
Too rich for my blood.
🤦♂️$2,000 for a surge protector. ...🤭🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣i smell you got rip off bra🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣Tell furman you want your money back. The electronics inside this units dont cost this much. So yes this is a way to rip off the people that always want their neighbors to see they got the better equipment and most espensive . A monster surge protector does the same thing for $399 and now can be found use for $150.
1/4 of the cost?I think your way off
Great review though