Features
| Warranty length | 5 Years |
|---|---|
| Brand | Puritan Audio |
Product Description
There are three versions of the Puritan Audio PB104 Power Brick. The standard version, the version with DC blocking and the version with DC blocking but no filter power router. This is the entry level power conditioner from Puritan, however there has been no compromise with the design or specification. Power conditioners are thought to give a wider, deeper soundstage, with greater detail, due to less noise on the main's supply. Protect your expensive audio equipment from mains power surges and get a cleaner sound.
Stainless steel shielded case.
The case of the PB104 is made of stainless steel, that magnetically shields the internal wiring. It also features four 15A high grade plug sockets. Moreover, the unit has 20 discrete filter elements to remove noise progressively from the supply. The filters protect against both common mode and differential mode noise and interference. There is also star earthing and DC offset correction on the PB104DC. There is a high level of non-sacrificial surge protection, that means that you can just reset the trip, rather than replace blown components. The internal wiring is also made of high-grade low resistance copper.
What is common mode and differential mode noise?
Noise is classified into two types. Common mode noise is present on a mains cable on both the live and Neutral wires. The noise flows in the same direction on both wires. Common mode noise is removed by using a choke, that has two windings, in toroidal format, as can be seen in the image of the internal construction of the unit, on the right. There is also a capacitor that shorts any noise to the metallic casing. Differential mode noise flows in opposite direction in each wire, this is suppressed by fitting a filter. This usually comprises a capacitor across the lines, along with an inductor.
Why DC blocking?
One common issue with the mains supply, is “DC on the mains”. This can cause problems with transformer saturation, especially with amplifiers. The mains supply should be a perfect sine wave. However domestic appliances present asymmetrical loads that cause the sine wave to become distorted. This leads to DC on the mains. Even low levels of DC, usually less than 500mV can cause the toroidal transformers, commonly used in amplifiers, to saturate. This reduces their efficiency and affects the sound. The PB104 DC will block the DC from ever getting to your sensitive audio equipment.
Why power conditioners?
The mains supply is often subject to interference from a myriad of sources both inside the home and outside. This can come from thunderstorms as well as domestic appliances. There can be switching noise from washing machines, as well as noise from poorly shielded power supply units. The PB104 has very good surge protection so that a lightning strike on the power lines will not destroy your expensive audio equipment. Moreover, filtering out mains noise is thought to make your high-end audio equipment sound better, with a cleaner, less muddy sound.
