Air Audio Services AC-2K Balanced Mains Transformer (1 Viewer)

[Martin Dew]

Today were jumping into the Air Audio Services AC-2K Balanced Mains Transformer. Air Audio is a small and unassuming manufacturing and distribution outfit located not far from the City of Oxford in the UK, and run by long-time high-end audio guru Michael Osborn. While specializing in the sell-through of extreme-performance cartridges and cables, the team also turn their hand to the design and fabrication of audio accessories and components. Seasoned two-channel audiophiles might be familiar with Osborn’s name as chief engineer of the Astin Trew audio separates brand, the company he founded in 2003.

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[John Dirk]

Thanks Martin. I share your general cynicism for this product category so an objective review from someone I can trust is much appreciated. I did have trouble deducing the US price for the standalone version from your comments but, based on the UK price, I think I would have to file this in the "nice to have" category for the foreseeable future.

 

[Martin Dew]

Thanks, John. The standalone AC-2K is actually GBP £50 cheaper at £1249, but I assumed most readers here would be interested in the rack mount product. I also completely understand your 'nice to have' reasoning. The unit is not cheap and I toyed with knocking off half a star as a result (the price sounds worse in USD than GBP). I'm a sceptic and wanted not to like it, but the sonic improvements just couldn't be ignored. In some ways I think this type of noise floor reducing product has even more relevance in our multi-channel world than the two-channel world.

 

[Robin9]

Many thanks for this review. I too am sceptical about most companies peddling "magic" solutions to fairly small problems. I did however thirty or so years ago investigate what benefits a cleaner electricity supply could bring to my hi-fi system and was quickly persuaded. (In those days I was a "golden ears" and could easily hear subtle differences)

Before investing is this product however, I would like to know how it compares with P S Audio's power regenerators. Have you ever sampled any of those much admired products?

 

[Martin Dew]

Before investing is this product however, I would like to know how it compares with P S Audio's power regenerators. Have you ever sampled any of those much admired products?

Thanks, Robin. Although I was aware of PS, I haven't sampled them, and other than simply using a variety of surge protectors and power conditioners over the years, this is my first attempt at reviewing a more 'serious', performance-based product.

 

[Robin9]

Thanks, Robin. Although I was aware of PS, I haven't sampled them, and other than simply using a variety of surge protectors and power conditioners over the years, this is my first attempt at reviewing a more 'serious', performance-based product.

If you ever get a chance to test one of them, seize the opportunity! In fact, if you contact them, they may well send you one for a few weeks.