Re: Please explain ac conditioner to newbie

Just found this board last week and learning alot, but also coming up with a number of questions. Am going to put $7K+ into a HT system in the next month, and wondering about the need for an "ac conditioner" to maximize the potential. From the ac conditioner thread/replies below, it''''s obvious they''''re important devices. I''''m not aware of electrical surges/falloffs in my area. It sounds like if I''''m gonna spend that much on a system I should strongly consider a unit. How much are they, and will one service the HDTV/reciever & DVD? Thanks.

[apcarandang]

Panamax, Monster, PS Audio and other manufacturers have line conditioners and/or surge protectors. For the amount of money you''re investing on your HT equipment, these devices will be worth the money.<p>Basically, line conditioners remove all the gremlins(RF(Radio frequency)/EMI(Electro Magnetic Interference)<eg. you get lines on the TV when someone is using a hair dryer in the house, most household appliances with motors will generate some sort of RF/EMI> from your power line. Depending on the model you chose some will make sure your get consistently clean AC power for your equipment.These devices all protect your equipment from under/over voltage. Most will do an automatic shutdown when the power gets too low or too high. <br />Most of them also offer generous equipment protection warranties.<p>Consider spending $200 and up for these types of equipment.<p>You may want to visit the manufacturers sites for more detailed information.<p>Hope this helps smile.gif border=0

[jstwong]

The subject of A/C conditioners can be hotly contested. My bottom line recommendation is to try a product out that you feel comfortable paying for <i.e within your budget comfort level>, but make sure that you purchase it through a dealer that has a satisfaction guarantee, so that you can return it if it doesn''t improve anything for you.<p>As for a surge protector, I think that is pretty much a standard must need item. What shape / form it takes <combined with a/c conditioner or not> is a different issue, and will have to be addressed by yourself...