View Full Version : Mains un switched socket
Anyone noticed a difference moving from a switched to un switched mains socket:scratch:
walpurgis
31-01-2015, 22:21
No.
Sovereign
31-01-2015, 22:34
I went from shitty ones to good MK unswitched ones which made a pleasent difference. But thats not strickly what you asked.
The Barbarian
31-01-2015, 22:34
:lolsign:
No from the old Barbarian
After a big glass or two of port I have found a difference:lol:
I think I should drink more!:lol::lol:
The Barbarian
31-01-2015, 22:39
& on top of that i get the added peace of mind that ive switched of the power to my Hi Fi block
walpurgis
31-01-2015, 23:22
After a big glass or two of port I have found a difference:lol:
I think I should drink more!:lol::lol:
Don't worry about plugs & sockets. Just turn the volume up more! ;)
No, because all of the sockets in my house are un-switched. You don't have any choice.
I don't have any fuses in my plugs either, and I am not on a ring main.
Does that mean that by default, my system should sound much better than if I were to use it in the UK?
mad-moon
01-02-2015, 09:51
Anyone noticed a difference moving from a switched to un switched mains socket:scratch:
of course there is a difference...one has a switch and the other does not...the switch is just another unnecessary crack in the path.
of course there is a difference...one has a switch and the other does not...the switch is just another unnecessary crack in the path.
I am sure eliminating as many switch points anywhere in a system can only be beneficial.:)
After a big glass or two of port I have found a difference:lol:
I think I should drink more!:lol::lol:
Never a bad idea… ;)
However, the perceived improvement (if genuine) could just as easily have come from the use of cleaner, newer, sockets, as opposed to anything else. Even small reductions in resistance like that are usually audible in a high-resolution system.
Marco.
MikeMusic
01-02-2015, 10:25
Absolutely
Would never use switched for hifi
Bigger improvement if you go from switched sockets feeding cheap 4 way adaptors to a bank of unswitched for all kit
My system went from crap to great
of course there is a difference...one has a switch and the other does not...the switch is just another unnecessary crack in the path.
It's not in the signal path though...
Have to say I remain sceptical despite the massive amounts of subjective reports that these thing make an improvement. Although I've heard clear differences between mains blocks and that's prior to the signal path too.
Even so when I have my hut re-built (later this year hopefully) I'll be putting in unswitched MK sockets and making some other mods to the mains; because: why not?
Have you got anyone lined up for that job? If not, I could bring my tame (‘hi-fi friendly’ and very cheap) electrician down to sort it out. He’s very good! :)
Marco.
It's not in the signal path though...
Have to say I remain sceptical despite the massive amounts of subjective reports that these thing make an improvement. Although I've heard clear differences between mains blocks and that's prior to the signal path too.
Even so when I have my hut re-built (later this year hopefully) I'll be putting in unswitched MK sockets and making some other mods to the mains; because: why not?
Hi Martin, how you doing? What mods you doing to the mains?
Absolutely
Would never use switched for hifi
Bigger improvement if you go from switched sockets feeding cheap 4 way adaptors to a bank of unswitched for all kit
My system went from crap to great
Interesting, must consider this when I sort my mains out.
Cheers Marco but it will be part of a full re-wire job and partial re-build. Amongst other things they have to fit a modern consumer unit and run an earth up the front of the building, through the loft and down the other side to the kitchen so that a central heating boiler can be installed. It's all going to be a big job, I will have to move out for a couple of months at least. I will be consulting you on the specific hi-fi side of it though so don't worry ;)
Interesting, must consider this when I sort my mains out.
If you want to do it right, and trust me I’ve 'been there and done that’ with the mains, to a degree you wouldn’t believe, fit European (un-fused) Schuko plugs to your mains leads and plug them into a high-quality mains block, fitted with as many Schuko sockets as you need, in order to power your whole system, but which has a mains flex connected to the block, fitted with a normal 13A plug.
Then simply install ONE single unswitched 13A wall socket, and plug the block into that. Trust me, that will sound WAY better than almost any other arrangement (for many genuine electrical reasons), as well as ensure that your kit is adequately protected.
:exactly:
Marco.
Hi Martin, how you doing? What mods you doing to the mains?
Hi James, I'm good, how are you?
I'm not entirely sure at the moment but the unswitched sockets will be a definite. I've also read that the fuse in the consumer unit can be uprated, too, and that this can improve things.
Don't get me wrong I am sceptical but since I need to have the work done anyway might as well not take the chance of spoiling the ship for a ha'peth of tar.
Plus a bank of 8 unswitched sockets will look pretty sexy and 'serious' :)
Cheers Marco but it will be part of a full re-wire job and partial re-build. Amongst other things they have to fit a modern consumer unit and run an earth up the front of the building, through the loft and down the other side to the kitchen so that a central heating boiler can be installed. It's all going to be a big job, I will have to move out for a couple of months at least. I will be consulting you on the specific hi-fi side of it though so don't worry ;)
Ok, no worries. If you need me, you know where I am. I don’t even mind popping down and giving you a hand with any lugging required and/or applying the ‘finishing touches’, to optimise things in a hi-fi sense! :cool:
Marco.
I'm not entirely sure at the moment but the unswitched sockets will be a definite. I've also read that the fuse in the consumer unit can be uprated, too, and that this can improve things.
Plus a bank of 8 unswitched sockets will look pretty sexy and 'serious' :)
See my previous post ;)
Marco.
Absolutely
Would never use switched for hifi
Bigger improvement if you go from switched sockets feeding cheap 4 way adaptors to a bank of unswitched for all kit
My system went from crap to great
The idea that a systems sound can go from "crap to great" just because of a change from switched to unswitched mains sockets concerns me. I have had two rooms with dedicated spurs and unswitched sockets, I've also used adaptors and experimented with mains cables etc. I'm not saying that any of these things don't make some difference but they never, for me, had anything like the level of impact that the phrase 'crap to great' would suggest - 'icing on the cake' more like.
--------
My current music room has a high current spur for the hi-fi, Crabtree unswitched sockets and the previous house owner had already had the electricity board upgrade the main input fuse (before the main fuse box). Sometimes I have to plug gear into the the standard house ring but if it does degrade the sound it's by a very small (imperceptible even) amount.
See my previous post ;)
Marco.
Yes have read it, will have to consider that too. Although the sockets would be a neater solution.
Re the 'crap to great' thing could it not be that if you have very noisy mains for whatever reason sorting them out would give that 'perceptible jump' in sq?
I don't think my area has bad mains; pal a few doors down has everything plugged into a five quid mains block, even the amp, his system sounds very good.
The Barbarian
01-02-2015, 11:39
I don't have any fuses in my plugs either, and I am not on a ring main.
Does that mean that by default, my system should sound much better than if I were to use it in the UK?
If it were the UK it means a person would be very silly having no fuses imho.
You are aware he lives in Toulouse.
He lives in France so no fuses needed.
No it means you are being very silly having no fuses imho all for the sake of what, some B.S that's been floats around hi-fi circles?
It's perfectly normal over here. In fact, it conforms to the regulations. :ner:
;)
No it means you are being very silly having no fuses imho all for the sake of what, some B.S that's been floats around hi-fi circles?
In the scenario I’ve suggested, dude, the fuse in the 13A plug, connected to the wall socket, is realistically all the protection that’s needed for the cables (with Schuko plugs, the better of which are far more nicely constructed than the average UK 13A item), plugged into the mains block, as long as the CU, feeding the mains supply itself, is fitted with all the necessary MCBs or RCBOs.
Furthermore, all the equipment itself will be internally fused, as normal.
All that’s been done away with is the ‘overkill’ 13A fuses, fitted inside every plug, and on every mains lead, which really is unnecessary and does significantly impact on sound quality. In that respect, almost every other country in the world has a more sensible mains supply than we do! :)
Marco.
Yes have read it, will have to consider that too. Although the sockets would be a neater solution.
Depends on what you mean by ‘neater’: a rather ugly bank of wall sockets permanently ‘winking at you' (not to mention the hassle of routing the wall, to house them all, unless you go for surface mounting, which is even uglier), or one wee single socket on the wall, feeding a mains block which, with a sufficiently long mains flex, could be hidden invisibly behind your gear….
One thing I can guarantee, dude, is that what I’ve suggested will sound MUCH better! :trust:
Marco.
You make a convincing case. But won't that method be a lot more expensive? I don't care about the routing job since I won't be doing it.
Nope, I know exactly how to obtain and/or build the required block (with all the necessary plugs and sockets) for minimal outlay… Talk to me about it nearer the time ;)
Marco.
I am sure eliminating as many switch points anywhere in a system can only be beneficial.:)
and what about the hundreds upstream ? Do you think one less would make an audible difference ? Maybe ?
Never a bad idea… ;)
However, the perceived improvement (if genuine) could just as easily have come from the use of cleaner, newer, sockets, as opposed to anything else. Even small reductions in resistance like that are usually audible in a high-resolution system.
Marco.
The socket I removed was 30 years old and untouched. Some of the mains wiring was very tarnished as were the copper strips and screw connectors in the socket.
I cleaned up the all the wiring and connected it to a nice shiny new unswitched socket and there was definitely a slight improvement.
In particular there was a benefit regarding dynamics which I presume would be when the system/amps call for the most power , just a bit more effortless:)
As in all things Hifi "Everything Matters".
This has now pushed me to sort out my mains through to my system with a dedicated spur. I know of a chap near me who has gone to extremes with his power supply so will pick his brains.
I will certainly take into account your suggestions Marco that you recommended to Martin.:cool:
The socket I removed was 30 years old and untouched. Some of the mains wiring was very tarnished as were the copper strips and screw connectors in the socket.
I cleaned up the all the wiring and connected it to a nice shiny new unswitched socket and there was definitely a slight improvement.
Undoubtedly there would’ve been (for good reasons), as I’ve heard the same thing myself, very clearly and repeatedly.
I will certainly take into account your suggestions Marco that you recommended to Martin...
All you really need is something like this: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/271743344667?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&fromMakeTrack=true
Disable the LED, cut the Schuko plug off of the mains flex, and fit a decent (MK) 13A plug on the end, then use it with some quality mains leads, fitted with Schuko plugs (such as these:http://www.ebay.com/itm/VIABLUE-X-25-Silver-Serie-3x2-5-audiophile-Main-Cable-1-5m-long-Bals-schuko-/281123562507?pt=UK_Computing_Sound_Vision_Audio_Ca bles_Adapters&hash=item417445240b) and plug the block into a 13A wall socket - job done!
Or if you want something ‘fancier’:
www.mains-cables-r-us.co.uk/mains-extention-products/405-schuko-mains-power-block-silver-plated-.html?search_query=schuko+mains+block&results=12
Honestly, the sonic results that will produce, will outperform ANY so-called ‘audiophile’ designed mains block that uses 13A sockets (in conjunction with mains leads with fused 13A plugs), as to make the comparison laughable!!
Marco.
Sovereign
01-02-2015, 16:05
I'm going to jump in here as there seems to be some confusion that I'm wanting to clear up.
What Marco is suggesting makes a lot of sense.
There is a big difference between a spur and a radial. A spur is not what you want to run your hifi from, a spur is a single length 0f 2.5mm T&E that is off a ring. You are wanting to power your Hifi from a radial which is a single power line straight from your consumer unit, and ideally nothing is drawing power from that radial except for your hifi.
The ultimate installation is a radial straight from the incoming mains tails to your property after the meter. I am no expert here, but I have been messing around with mains instals for some time. Nor am I qualified, but my instalation was carried out by one of the 17th edition NIC EIC electricians that work for me.
Below is a series of photographs and a few words of the ultimate mains installation IMHO.
This is my house consumer unit which you DO NOT want to connect your hifi to, even if you run a radial straight from it to your hifi.
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg1.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg1.jpg.html)
Here is the outside of my property, the left white box is the electrical meter, where the tails come up from the ground. The small middle box houses a dedicated shut off switch to my hifi, not everyone would need this but due to the length of the radial, 21m, and the fact that it goes underground I need this to meet regs, and the box on the right is the gas meter; only to be tapped into if you want to give your hifi a more fiery musical presentation ;-)
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg6.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg6.jpg.html)
This is inside the box on the left which houses the mains tails coming out of the ground. You can see the main house fuse kind of out of the picture on the left, which you want to make sure houses a 100A cartridge fuse, check if this is ok to do as 100A is not always appropriate. In this same box you can see the meter on the right. Under the meter is the most important box of all, a Henley block. The tails that come out of the meter go into the Henly block, out of the Henley block one set of tails goes to my house CU and the other set of tails goes to my hifi via a switch in the middle of the white boxes.
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg5.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg5.jpg.html)
This is inside the small white middle box, dedicated to my hifi. You can see the tails from the house meter go into the bottom of the switch switch, out of the top of the switch you can see the blue. brown and earth which is the beginning of the radial that is a 10mm armoured that pinned to the side of the house then under the garden to a detached building which is Sovereign Towers.
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg7.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg7.jpg.html)
Here you can see the 10mm armoured and the detatched property that is where I listen to tunes late into the night.
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg8.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg8.jpg.html)
Here is the dedicated Hifi CU with both a RCD and MCBO. You can see the armoured radial coming up the wall and into the CU
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg2.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg2.jpg.html)
Here is my Mother Trucker balanced mains unit. The grey wire is the power coming into it, the grey wire is wired straight into the MCBO of the dedicated CU. All connections are with Neutrik PowerCons. You can then see the other three wires, two black and one silver, which is the balanced power coming out of the MTBPS which freed my DAC, pre and power amps.
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg3.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg3.jpg.html)
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg4.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg4.jpg.html)
Obviously balanced power does not have to be used for this instal, that is just my preference. Hope this helps.
No, because all of the sockets in my house are un-switched. You don't have any choice.
I don't have any fuses in my plugs either, and I am not on a ring main.
Does that mean that by default, my system should sound much better than if I were to use it in the UK?
YES
and what about the hundreds upstream ? Do you think one less would make an audible difference ? Maybe ?
Yawn, same old same old
Pointless debates come on guys AOS is more than this surely?
Its been exhausted many times and is frankly becoming boring now.
Sovereign
01-02-2015, 16:31
Yawn, same old same old
Pointless debates come on guys AOS is more than this surely?
Its been exhausted many times and is frankly becoming boring now.
If we say that the mains before it reaches our property is poor and therefore anything we do after that is not worth it , is bloody stupid, and in effect is saying that the installation I spelled out above is a waste of time. The installation I made made a great difference. Really opened up the top end, realism to the kids, and a deeper and more defined presentation in the bass.
hifinutt
01-02-2015, 17:03
If we say that the mains before it reaches our property is poor and therefore anything we do after that is not worth it , is bloody stupid, and in effect is saying that the installation I spelled out above is a waste of time. The installation I made made a great difference. Really opened up the top end, realism to the kids, and a deeper and more defined presentation in the bass.
if I played my purseound L10 to you without a isotek syncro and then afterwards with it . you would , I guarantee hear the difference in musicality and presence . si it does pay to invest
I did hear the difference replacing an unswitched socket with a furutech socket . it also grips those heavy mains cables like a vice
MikeMusic
02-02-2015, 08:54
The idea that a systems sound can go from "crap to great" just because of a change from switched to unswitched mains sockets concerns me. I have had two rooms with dedicated spurs and unswitched sockets, I've also used adaptors and experimented with mains cables etc. I'm not saying that any of these things don't make some difference but they never, for me, had anything like the level of impact that the phrase 'crap to great' would suggest - 'icing on the cake' more like.
--------
My current music room has a high current spur for the hi-fi, Crabtree unswitched sockets and the previous house owner had already had the electricity board upgrade the main input fuse (before the main fuse box). Sometimes I have to plug gear into the the standard house ring but if it does degrade the sound it's by a very small (imperceptible even) amount.
I was really unhappy with my system after we moved in 2003. I considered the Isobariks were overpowering the room
The improvement was that good after the bank of unswitched sockets went in
This was not expected. It was a desperate attempt that I thought might make it a bit better
Another measurement you might prefer
It went from unacceptable to very pleasant
:)
'Course later on I heard better systems but that's another story
Sovereign
02-02-2015, 10:44
I've often pulled sockets off the wall only to find that the copper is black and / or some of the contacts are floating in the terminal. That would play havoc with the sound of the Hifi for sure.
If the switch is loose in an old or cheap socket and is replaced with an unswitched socket then I'm sure it would make a good difference. As in my case when I was running my Hifi off the spur that took power into my Hifi room.
Does a high quality, say MK, unswitched socket sound better than an MK switched one? I don't know. But like others have mentioned, the less switches in any current path has got to be a good thing.
I've often pulled sockets off the wall only to find that the copper is black and / or some of the contacts are floating in the terminal. That would play havoc with the sound of the Hifi for sure.
If the switch is loose in an old or cheap socket and is replaced with an unswitched socket then I'm sure it would make a good difference. As in my case when I was running my Hifi off the spur that took power into my Hifi room.
Does a high quality, say MK, unswitched socket sound better than an MK switched one? I don't know. But like others have mentioned, the less switches in any current path has got to be a good thing.
I agree James.
The socket I replaced was in very poor condition with one of the earth leads detached from the metal socket grounding point:eek: The entire metalwork had oxidised to the point it was just corroded metal. This socket was at ground level and had suffered from damp! The wiring had also oxidised.
Replacing said item with a new socket has definitely had an effect on my system.
Sovereign
02-02-2015, 18:49
I'm going to jump in here as there seems to be some confusion that I'm wanting to clear up.
What Marco is suggesting makes a lot of sense.
There is a big difference between a spur and a radial. A spur is not what you want to run your hifi from, a spur is a single length 0f 2.5mm T&E that is off a ring. You are wanting to power your Hifi from a radial which is a single power line straight from your consumer unit, and ideally nothing is drawing power from that radial except for your hifi.
The ultimate installation is a radial straight from the incoming mains tails to your property after the meter. I am no expert here, but I have been messing around with mains instals for some time. Nor am I qualified, but my instalation was carried out by one of the 17th edition NIC EIC electricians that work for me.
Below is a series of photographs and a few words of the ultimate mains installation IMHO.
This is my house consumer unit which you DO NOT want to connect your hifi to, even if you run a radial straight from it to your hifi.
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg1.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg1.jpg.html)
Here is the outside of my property, the left white box is the electrical meter, where the tails come up from the ground. The small middle box houses a dedicated shut off switch to my hifi, not everyone would need this but due to the length of the radial, 21m, and the fact that it goes underground I need this to meet regs, and the box on the right is the gas meter; only to be tapped into if you want to give your hifi a more fiery musical presentation ;-)
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg6.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg6.jpg.html)
This is inside the box on the left which houses the mains tails coming out of the ground. You can see the main house fuse kind of out of the picture on the left, which you want to make sure houses a 100A cartridge fuse, check if this is ok to do as 100A is not always appropriate. In this same box you can see the meter on the right. Under the meter is the most important box of all, a Henley block. The tails that come out of the meter go into the Henly block, out of the Henley block one set of tails goes to my house CU and the other set of tails goes to my hifi via a switch in the middle of the white boxes.
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg5.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg5.jpg.html)
This is inside the small white middle box, dedicated to my hifi. You can see the tails from the house meter go into the bottom of the switch switch, out of the top of the switch you can see the blue. brown and earth which is the beginning of the radial that is a 10mm armoured that pinned to the side of the house then under the garden to a detached building which is Sovereign Towers.
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg7.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg7.jpg.html)
Here you can see the 10mm armoured and the detatched property that is where I listen to tunes late into the night.
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg8.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg8.jpg.html)
Here is the dedicated Hifi CU with both a RCD and MCBO. You can see the armoured radial coming up the wall and into the CU
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg2.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg2.jpg.html)
Here is my Mother Trucker balanced mains unit. The grey wire is the power coming into it, the grey wire is wired straight into the MCBO of the dedicated CU. All connections are with Neutrik PowerCons. You can then see the other three wires, two black and one silver, which is the balanced power coming out of the MTBPS which freed my DAC, pre and power amps.
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg3.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg3.jpg.html)
http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n533/SovereignKing/image.jpg4.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/SovereignKing/media/image.jpg4.jpg.html)
Obviously balanced power does not have to be used for this instal, that is just my preference. Hope this helps.
My next step is to put 5 earth rods in the garden in a star configuration, but as I currently have a 10mm brand new clean earth straight back to the tails that come out of the road thus bypassing the house I'm not sure how much better it will be. However this is presuming the suppliers earth is in good order which I should have tested.
I would advise you to find out exactly what earthing arrangements have been provided by your supplier. For some earthing systems, adding additional earth spikes could actually make the installation unsafe.
Sovereign
02-02-2015, 19:48
Thanks for your concern Barry, I'm well aware of this. The guys that work for me are at the top of their game and I get them to carry out the work, not me. Cheers though.
Did you not make any other changes or adjustments other than the sockets?
Sovereign
02-02-2015, 20:51
Did you not make any other changes or adjustments other than the sockets?
Who is this to Mark?
Thanks for your concern Barry, I'm well aware of this. The guys that work for me are at the top of their game and I get them to carry out the work, not me. Cheers though.
That's good. They should be able to tell you which type of earthing arrangement has been provided by your supplier:
TN-S
TN-C-S
TT
or
TN-C.
And what the required earth resistance values are in each case.
Who is this to Mark?
Sorry, Mike's post #40:
I was really unhappy with my system after we moved in 2003. I considered the Isobariks were overpowering the room
The improvement was that good after the bank of unswitched sockets went in
This was not expected. It was a desperate attempt that I thought might make it a bit better
Another measurement you might prefer
It went from unacceptable to very pleasant
:)
'Course later on I heard better systems but that's another story
MikeMusic
03-02-2015, 09:44
Did you not make any other changes or adjustments other than the sockets?
Me. ?
No none at all
And I wasn't expecting much as I assumed the room was 'wrong' or something else was up that caused the system to sound so bad
It was a wonderful surprise which put me on the road to mains evangelism
:)
Hi Mike,
Fit Schuko plugs and sockets on your kit and mains leads, lose the ‘overkill’ 13A fuses in all of your 13A plugs in the process, and hear things become better than you could’ve ever imagined... Trust me, that’ll be much more productive than pissing around with ‘audiophile’ fuses... ;)
The ‘best’ fuse (when it’s acceptably safe to do so, as in this instance) is no fuse! Simply ensure that at least one 13A fuse is in-line between the wall socket and your mains block, and you do that by fitting a 13A plug on the end of the mains flex, keeping all else Shuckos.
Marco.
Beobloke
03-02-2015, 10:18
Anyone noticed a difference moving from a switched to un switched mains socket:scratch:
I recently noticed a huge difference in going from a switched to an unswitched mains socket. The sound had more presence and the turntable seemed to be rotating at the correct speed much more reliably.
Admittedly, further investigation revealed that this may have been because the switch on the switched socket was set to 'OFF', but I still think I'm on to something....
walpurgis
03-02-2015, 10:28
:lol:
StanleyB
03-02-2015, 11:20
No, because all of the sockets in my house are un-switched. You don't have any choice.
I don't have any fuses in my plugs either, and I am not on a ring main.
Does that mean that by default, my system should sound much better than if I were to use it in the UK?
Is your local electricity station nuclear, coal, or gas?
Yes, and remember that gas is directional!
Marco.
walpurgis
03-02-2015, 12:37
Yes, and remember that gas is directional!
Marco.
And has 'burn in'!
Aye, especially after a Chicken Tikka Jalfrezi! :eyebrows:
Marco.
MikeMusic
03-02-2015, 15:40
Hi Marco
Agreed
I used to do some naughty UK illegal things some years ago.
Won't detail it for safety reasons
Moved to legal when I discovered Kimber cables and then The Ulitmate
Our David, MCRU was the first one to suggest Schuko when I was buying the P10.
Seemed to be beyond unusual for PS Audio to convert for the UK. Now I realise I should have thought about a Euro spec......
Too late now as the P10 has UK sockets so I'm a bit stuck unless I spend big.
Would still be slightly worried about going fuseless, but I also see it should be fine as only (?) the UK has fuses in plugs.
Safety overkill ?
walpurgis
03-02-2015, 16:21
I used to do some naughty UK illegal things some years ago.
Not as many as me sunshine! :D
(I won't elaborate)
MikeMusic
04-02-2015, 08:24
With the aid of The Readers Digest DIY Guide I completely rewired my place.
Can't think it would pass current regs !
Not as many as me sunshine! :D
(I won't elaborate)
Are you referring to that incident again with the KY jelly and the dolphin?
Marco.
walpurgis
04-02-2015, 11:09
Are you referring to that incident again with the KY jelly and the dolphin?
Marco.
No, the few that the police and security services never cleared up. ;)
Ah yes, that explains why you're still in hiding... They never fingered you for that business with the marshmallows, did they? :D
Marco.
walpurgis
04-02-2015, 12:44
Ah yes, that explains why you're still in hiding... They never fingered you for that business with the marshmallows, did they? :D
Marco.
Shh! I still haven't figured out what to do with the forty tons of pink marshmallows left in my warehouse. :scratch: :eek:
I recently noticed a huge difference in going from a switched to an unswitched mains socket. The sound had more presence and the turntable seemed to be rotating at the correct speed much more reliably.
Admittedly, further investigation revealed that this may have been because the switch on the switched socket was set to 'OFF', but I still think I'm on to something....
Serious stuff :eek:
Anyone noticed a difference moving from a switched to un switched mains socket:scratch:
Yes you don't need to switch it off any more :)
Shh! I still haven't figured out what to do with the forty tons of pink marshmallows left in my warehouse. :scratch: :eek:
Sell them off as shop soiled? :lol:
Yes you don't need to switch it off any more :)
But how do you switch it on:)
Sell them off as shop soiled? :lol:
You don't know where he's dunked them! :eyebrows:
Marco.
I have swapped my old mains switched socket for a shiny new unswitched socket and have certainly benefited which is not a surprise considering the 30 years oxidation of the old MK socket. However I now intend to upgrade to a silver plated socket and have found these on the net if anyone interested.
Very good price considering some of the 'audiophile' sockets come in very much more expensive:eek:
http://www.tm3connections.com/displayproduct.php?product_id=59&category_id=38
brian2957
15-02-2015, 10:48
I have dealt with tm3connections for many years and they offer a wide selection of quality gear for very good prices .
A little tip, Jim, when you're using that socket... If you look at the back, you'll notice that the earth cable entry point is on the L/H side, and subsequently is fed to the R/H socket. Consequently, there is usually a small (but noticeable) difference in 'performance' between both sides, with the L/H side usually sounding best.
Therefore, plug your most important source component (CD player or whatever) into there, or your mains block, and leave the R/H side for less critical applications. Try it, and let me know what you think :)
Marco.
A little tip, Jim, when you're using that socket... If you look at the back, you'll notice that the earth cable entry point is on the L/H side, and subsequently is fed to the R/H socket. Consequently, there is usually a small (but noticeable) difference in 'performance' between both sides, with the L/H side usually sounding best.
Therefore, plug your most important source component (CD player or whatever) into there, or your mains block, and leave the R/H side for less critical applications. Try it, and let me know what you think :)
Marco.
Thanks for the tip, will give it a try.
Agree with Marco. Shuko is the way to go. If I was starting from scratch the only fuse would be in the plug to the wall socket and I'd be shuko all the way. However, as it would be a substantial spend to re terminate all cords + a decent block, I doubt I'll bother.As for regulations I'd guess the fuse in the extension cord should be sufficient. Tired of the nanny state anyway.
Agree with Marco. Shuko is the way to go. If I was starting from scratch the only fuse would be in the plug to the wall socket and I'd be shuko all the way. However, as it would be a substantial spend to re terminate all cords + a decent block, I doubt I'll bother.As for regulations I'd guess the fuse in the extension cord should be sufficient. Tired of the nanny state anyway.
Its not that expensive dude
Schuko plugs are a fiver apiece (just spray them with de-oxit) and a mains block less than £100
Once you hear the improvements you will want to up-grade the plugs and block but that can be done as funds allow.
I have been schuko for about 10 years now!
Wot? No need to buy more Quantum fuses!
Wot? No need to buy more Quantum fuses!
Haha
There are fuses inside your equipment to up-grade!
Its not that expensive dude
Schuko plugs are a fiver apiece (just spray them with de-oxit) and a mains block less than £100
Examples please, boss? :)
The best and most cost effective options I've seen, in terms of mains blocks, are these chaps from Germany, which I suspect are good enough not to need upgrading: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/171390371850?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
That's a very nice quality item for the money, and star-wired too.
These are the mains leads to go with them (fitted with nice Wattgate IECs, high-quality Schuko plug, and Lapp cable): http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1-5m-Ultimate-Netzkabel-Lapp-Bals-Schuko-Wattgate-320-Kaltgeratebuchse-3x2-5qmm-/181068058821?pt=DE_Computing_Netzkabel_Verl%C3%A4n gerungskabel&hash=item2a287f50c5
Get as many of those as you need (pop a 13A plug on the end of the block), and for not too much dosh, the job's a good 'un!
Marco.
For mains leads, these also look rather good: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Pangea-Power-Cable-AC-14-SE-4-9-Ft-High-End-Audio-PCOCC-Copper-Mains-Cable-/181468917905?ssPageName=ADME:X:PROI:GB:3160
Marco.
You buggers - trying to tempt me like that - should hang heads in shame :)
Lol - you know it makes sense! ;)
Honestly, I can say from personal experience, that the removal of all those (OTT and unnecessary) 13A fuses, in every mains lead connected to a 13A mains block, makes quite a shocking difference, sonically!
Schukos are da biz :trust:
Marco.
The Barbarian
16-02-2015, 13:28
For mains leads, these also look rather good:
Always used Olson distribution blocks. You can pick them up of E-Bay for peanuts. I gutted mine, stripped the grey paint off, had it refinished in satin crackle back, Rewired it with the cable of choice.. Built like tanks these blocks. I will avoid paying for anything expensive if i can help it..Putting yourself out is far cheaper
http://www.olson.co.uk/products01.htm
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Olson-8-way-Metal-Case-13A-Mains-Socket-Distribution-Box-Buyer-To-Collect-/381159085006?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item58beda13ce
Yeah, the Olsons are good. That's what I used to use before going the Schuko/hard-wired route :)
Marco.
The Black Adder
16-02-2015, 16:29
Not been following this but it's wet my nose.
Interesting regarding the Schucko plugs... Tell me, what about the olde fashioned UK round pin plugs? 15A is it? I've heard from somewhere that they are supposed to be better... ?
Hi Joe,
I don't know about better. For me, they're probably on a par, as both are fuseless, use big chunky connectors, and thus offer a really secure connection (far better than that provided by any 13A plug).
Ironically, however, unless you know a good source for 15A round pin plugs (and sockets), it's probably easier now to get hold of Schukos :)
Marco.
Actually, I've just found one for 15A round-pin plugs: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/NEW-Round-3-pin-electrical-plug-15-AMP-15A-BS536-/121448671146?pt=UK_TravelTickets_Accessories_RL&hash=item1c46e7a7aa
And sockets:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/5a-or-15a-ROUND-3-PIN-SOCKET-OUTLET-WALL-PLATE-FOR-TABLE-OR-STANDARD-LAMPS-NEW-/400788238537?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&var=670339232808&hash=item5d50d730c9
In fairness, there are actually quite a few of both listed on ebay, but no mains distribution blocks that I can see. I guess you could make up your own easily enough.
As for Schuko vs. 15A round-pin plugs, in terms of sound quality, I don't know the answer to that one! Perhaps someone here fancies testing it? :eyebrows:
Marco.
The Black Adder
16-02-2015, 19:37
Cheers Marco.
I might give the 3 pin jobbies a go. Be good to do a direct comparison though.
I suppose it would be best though to have the wall socket in standard form with fused plugs... although that kind of defeats the object slightly.
Yeah, if you were making a mains block with the sockets, you'd fit a standard 13A plug on the end of the block, which of course would plug into a 13A wall socket :)
Marco.
Can one 'adapt' a normal 3 pin plug to whatever makes the round pin version better? Presumably it's not the shape of the pins!
Actually, in one way it is... The round-pin plugs are a higher amperage rating (15A) than the usual 13A plugs, consequently the pins are thicker, which combined with the fact that they're rounded, makes a much tighter and more secure connection with their respective sockets.
You only have to try pulling apart a 15A round-pin plug and socket, compared with its 13A counterpart, to discover that fact! They combine to 'mate' together much more firmly, and so there is no 'wiggle room', as there often is with 13A plugs and sockets, especially the cheaper varieties where construction tolerances are less stringent, thus mechanical integrity is further compromised.
Of course, the main advantage of the 15A round-pin variety is the lack of fuse, but both that and the superior connection offered, combine to make it a much better solution for audio use. Yes, you can modify a 13A plug to work without a fuse, but it's a bit of a dog's dinner and not really recommended, plus you'll never get it to be as good.
15A round-pin or Schuko is the way! :)
Marco.
Firebottle
17-02-2015, 12:39
The construction of the Schuko type of socket, the female part, is so much better than that of the mating half for 13A flat face pins as to be laughable.
The 13A variety is basically just a bent piece of brass that relies on the springiness of the brass strip. The Schuko on the other hand has tapered contact pieces with an external spring clip to ensure contact pressure. The fact that the contacts are tapered also accomodates the different size pins for 5A and 15A plugs, automatically giving a tighter contact pressure for the larger 15A pin.
Voila :eek:
The Black Adder
17-02-2015, 12:54
Yeah, if you were making a mains block with the sockets, you'd fit a standard 13A plug on the end of the block, which of course would plug into a 13A wall socket :)
Marco.
Yeah.. still. It's better than having lots of fuses I suppose.
The Black Adder
17-02-2015, 13:05
Are MK still a reputable brand? Just wondering if they are. Been around for a long time but you never know these days if they are some typical knock-up setup in China.
Sovereign
17-02-2015, 13:09
Don't know where they are made, but if I have to use a UK three pin socket. MK is the brand I use. Much better than the other main brands.
Are MK still a reputable brand? Just wondering if they are. Been around for a long time but you never know these days if they are some typical knock-up setup in China.
Hi Jo, how you doing?
I was looking at ome posts regarding mains and sockets etc from a year or so back and i think you were going down this route then but were about to move house.
Did you ever put a dedicated mains spur in for your system as this is where I am going to start wih mine before I consider anything else. I had to replace the main wall socket anyway as it was very old and I think the switching was a bit dodgy hence un switched silver plated socket.
Next step will be separate dedicated mains supply to my system as I believe having read and consulted with those who have done it brings about the greatest benefit. Plugs and sockets etc i believe are just going to bring very small improvements.
Are MK still a reputable brand? Just wondering if they are. Been around for a long time but you never know these days if they are some typical knock-up setup in China.
The brand MK was taken over many years ago by Pillar. I think their products are still made in the UK, but I'm not certain. IMO MK products are not so well made these days as they used to be, and given a choice I prefer to use Crabtree 13A plugs.
I disagree with the statement that Schuko mains connectors are better made than those to BS1363. The fact the sockets have to allow for different diameter pins means the contact pressure, and hence contact resistance, is more variable.
Well I've just gone totally banzai and recklessly spent £20 (including delivery) on one of Dave's Belden mains cables kits he's doing on eBay at present (Martin Kaiser IEC, 1.5m Belden shielded cable, MK Toughplug). I'll try it instead of the mains cable that came with my Lab.Gruppen power amp.
Are MK still a reputable brand? Just wondering if they are. Been around for a long time but you never know these days if they are some typical knock-up setup in China.
Yeah, they are still a well regarded brand, amongst the best - but as Barry says, I don't think they are quite as good as they once were.
Do they come assembled? If so that would seem to be a fair price, given the quality of the components and the cost of the labour involved.
Let us know how you get on with them.
No, it's a kit (an exceedingly simplistic kit) - will keep me out of trouble for half an hour or so :).
I know this is not the most interesting photo on AOS - Unswitched Silver socket. Might win competition for most boring photo on AOS:lol:
http://i326.photobucket.com/albums/k424/Spendorsp2/FullSizeRender-Copy_zps580770ce.jpg (http://s326.photobucket.com/user/Spendorsp2/media/FullSizeRender-Copy_zps580770ce.jpg.html)
http://i326.photobucket.com/albums/k424/Spendorsp2/FullSizeRender_zps2d93f130.jpg (http://s326.photobucket.com/user/Spendorsp2/media/FullSizeRender_zps2d93f130.jpg.html)
walpurgis
18-02-2015, 20:01
Decent shots Jim.
Could be of interest. :)
Decent shots Jim.
Could be of interest. :)
Not the best quality but not bad for £21
Interesting article on silver used in audio.:)
http://www.silveraudio.com/papers1.html
Mark Grant
18-02-2015, 22:10
The brand MK was taken over many years ago by Pillar. I think their products are still made in the UK, but I'm not certain. IMO MK products are not so well made these days as they used to be
MK toughplugs say ' Made in Malaysia' on the outer boxes of 10 plugs.
MK 13 amp sockets have 'Made in Malaysia' printed on the back.
That is correct as of now, February 2015 but could change at any time if a different factory is used.
Not as good as they once where but still one of the best quality makes available.
Some makes of 13 amp sockets can break when the terminal screws are tightened nice and tight which is no use at all.
I doubt many sockets and plugs are UK made now as nearly everyone wants the cheapest rather than any known quality.
brian2957
18-02-2015, 22:18
I prefer these http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MK-ELECTRIC-13A-Safety-Plug-646WHI-/111189963630?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item19e370336e .
The old style MK plugs . Don't know where they're made though .
Do Crabtree still produce 13A plugs and sockets? IMO, they were even better than MK :)
Marco.
brian2957
18-02-2015, 22:21
I believe so . B&Q used to sell Crabtree products . http://www.screwfix.com/search?search=crabtree#_=p
http://www.screwfix.com/p/crabtree-13a-1-gang-unswitched-socket/80093
Yeah, here's one of their 13A plugs: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Crabtree-7222-WH-Resilient-Rubber-13A-Fused-Plug-White-Brand-New-/151367451550?pt=UK_BOI_Electrical_Components_Suppl ies_ET&hash=item233e34039e
And: http://www.voltimum.co.uk/search/site/crabtree%2013%20amp%20plug
Marco.
The Black Adder
19-02-2015, 04:19
Hi Jo, how you doing?
I was looking at ome posts regarding mains and sockets etc from a year or so back and i think you were going down this route then but were about to move house.
Did you ever put a dedicated mains spur in for your system as this is where I am going to start wih mine before I consider anything else. I had to replace the main wall socket anyway as it was very old and I think the switching was a bit dodgy hence un switched silver plated socket.
Next step will be separate dedicated mains supply to my system as I believe having read and consulted with those who have done it brings about the greatest benefit. Plugs and sockets etc i believe are just going to bring very small improvements.
Hi Jim.
No I never got a seperate circuit put in so it might be back on the cards now the sale has fell through. :(
I'm just curious. I heard things about the 15amp plugs but don't remember where from....
I prefer these http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MK-ELECTRIC-13A-Safety-Plug-646WHI-/111189963630?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item19e370336e .
The old style MK plugs . Don't know where they're made though .
I don't think the style of the hard plastic MK plug has changed - the MK 'Toughplug' is a different design; but either way I prefer Crabtree plugs.
This might be of interest: http://forums.naimaudio.com/topic/crabtree-or-mk-plug-on-standard-cord.
Well, we have had people commenting on the sound quality of various 13A cartridge fuses as well as cables, so what about the plug: MK, Crabtree, or Furutech? :D
... but either way I prefer Crabtree plugs.
Why - do they smell nicer? :D
Or do you have a more technical reason for your preference?
Marco.
The Black Adder
19-02-2015, 11:12
Oh!... the smell ov eet! :)
Why - do they smell nicer? :D
Or do you have a more technical reason for your preference?
Marco.
No, it's purely aesthetic - I prefer the looks of the Crabtree plugs, think they are better built and easier to wire. Sadly although Crabtree are still in business (the manufacture is in India), they no longer make plugs to BS1363. (Too much competition from China.)
This maybe why I wasnt getting the best from my mains supply:eek:
http://i326.photobucket.com/albums/k424/Spendorsp2/FullSizeRender_zps1f763c3a.jpg (http://s326.photobucket.com/user/Spendorsp2/media/FullSizeRender_zps1f763c3a.jpg.html)
brian2957
20-02-2015, 22:14
Bliddy hell James that doesn't look good .
I prefer these http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MK-ELECTRIC-13A-Safety-Plug-646WHI-/111189963630?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item19e370336e .
The old style MK plugs . Don't know where they're made though .
Same here.
These have proper internal screw down binding post style connectors for the cores, not the tiny wee hole and screw that is standard.
Can wire up thicker csa cable and screw it down tight. Better contact area and tighter connection.
Same here.
These have proper internal screw down binding post style connectors for the cores, not the tiny wee hole and screw that is standard.
Can wire up thicker csa cable and screw it down tight. Better contact area and tighter connection.
Its a moot point whether the 'binding post' style connections of the MK plugs are better than the "tiny wee hole and screw that is standard" of the Crabtree designs.
No, it's a kit (an exceedingly simplistic kit) - will keep me out of trouble for half an hour or so :).
Well yesterday I received my mains lead 'kit' - rather surprisingly (but kindly) I found my order had been upgraded FOC to have silver plated MK plug, IEC socket and some silver plated fuses (there was also some plain heatshrink). I've used this shielded Belden cable before but I was still surprised how tricky it is to work with, if it was any thicker at all it really wouldn't be possible to use the plugs I did (oh, I connected the shields drain wire to the MK mains earth only)! Both the internal (stranded) copper cores and the overall cable are really very thick. As it is I had to 'modify' the MK plugs strain relief system and the same for the IEC plug. I suspect the 'fancy' IEC and mains sockets you see on many cables are as much there for practical wiring reasons as they are for any potential sonic advantages. Anyway, after much messing about I've managed to make a neat job of it and it's wired into my power amp (one of the three in my system - the Class D one with the switch mode power supply that drives the woofers in my speakers). I did have a slight problem with the IEC being such a tight fit that it wouldn't go into the socket properly but I gently pried the plugs contacts apart a touch (twisted the blade of a small flat blade screwdriver in them) and all is now fine.
I'm having a listen (to some Laura Marling) now - does it sound any better/different? I don't really know - perhaps - it doesn't sound worse. It does sound good, but then it sounded good before - I'll have to put the old cable back in to compare them.
Nice one, Mark. It would be interesting finding out what you think when you slip the old one back in [as they say]….
Incidentally, I do agree with your point about ‘fancy IECs’, as my personal experience also reflects that.
Marco.
This maybe why I wasnt getting the best from my mains supply:eek:
http://i326.photobucket.com/albums/k424/Spendorsp2/FullSizeRender_zps1f763c3a.jpg (http://s326.photobucket.com/user/Spendorsp2/media/FullSizeRender_zps1f763c3a.jpg.html)
Jeez, that's got more ‘fuzz’ round it than an old tart’s matted lady flower! :wowzer:
Marco.
Jeez, that's got more ‘fuzz’ round it than an old tart’s matted lady flower! :wowzer:
Marco.
:lol::lol: I would be concerned showing that the doctor:eek:
Firebottle
21-02-2015, 14:25
I'd be concerned with 'Burt's Bees' as well> Hope it's only for the lips.
(Your secret is safe with me :eyebrows:)
:cool: Alan
Jeez, that's got more ‘fuzz’ round it than an old tart’s matted lady flower! :wowzer:
Marco.
you seem very well informed on old tarts Marco:eyebrows:
I was blessed with a vivid imagination! :D
Marco.
Its a moot point whether the 'binding post' style connections of the MK plugs are better than the "tiny wee hole and screw that is standard" of the Crabtree designs.
Maybe...
But you can get thicker copper in there, which isn't. (As much) 😛
I've Crabtree switch less sockets in my room.
Had to track 'em down online, hard to get if I remember right.
Everything's hardwired now so not being used.
Mark Grant
22-02-2015, 12:20
Maybe...
But you can get thicker copper in there, which isn't. (As much) 😛
I've Crabtree switch less sockets in my room.
Had to track 'em down online, hard to get if I remember right.
Everything's hardwired now so not being used.
Screwfix have them if anyone wants some.
http://www.screwfix.com/p/crabtree-13a-1-gang-unswitched-socket/80093
Not as good as the original Made in England sockets from a few years ago as these are imported and have been for a few years now.
They look the same from the front but if you take one to bits and compare the brass insides there not as good as they used to be which is why most people use the MK logic plus these days. (which are also imported but appear to be decent)
If you want to do it right, and trust me I’ve 'been there and done that’ with the mains, to a degree you wouldn’t believe, fit European (un-fused) Schuko plugs to your mains leads and plug them into a high-quality mains block, fitted with as many Schuko sockets as you need, in order to power your whole system, but which has a mains flex connected to the block, fitted with a normal 13A plug.
Then simply install ONE single unswitched 13A wall socket, and plug the block into that. Trust me, that will sound WAY better than almost any other arrangement (for many genuine electrical reasons), as well as ensure that your kit is adequately protected.
:exactly:
Marco.
Yup. I did all that and it sounds a lot better.
I know this is not the most interesting photo on AOS - Unswitched Silver socket. Might win competition for most boring photo on AOS:lol:
http://i326.photobucket.com/albums/k424/Spendorsp2/FullSizeRender-Copy_zps580770ce.jpg (http://s326.photobucket.com/user/Spendorsp2/media/FullSizeRender-Copy_zps580770ce.jpg.html)
http://i326.photobucket.com/albums/k424/Spendorsp2/FullSizeRender_zps2d93f130.jpg (http://s326.photobucket.com/user/Spendorsp2/media/FullSizeRender_zps2d93f130.jpg.html)
Ok so now compared 30 year old oxidised switched socket with new copper unswitched socket and tonight the unswitched silver socket.
The unswitched silver socket wins by a considerable margin.
Mmmm...never thought i would be hearing the difference between mains plug sockets:):scratch::eek:
Just had house wiring system checked out and had now earth bond to hot water pipes. Had this done yesterday.
My system showed a slight drop in noise floor.
MikeMusic
07-05-2015, 06:45
Good init ?
:)
Just had house wiring system checked out and had now earth bond to hot water pipes. Had this done yesterday.
My system showed a slight drop in noise floor.
What are the mechanics of this earth? Does anything attach to the hifi?
Firebottle
08-05-2015, 06:20
With an installation meeting the current requirements for electrical installations these bonding connectors will be already fitted. Only older properties are likely not to have these.
A fairly big (4mm sq, not sure) earth wire is strapped to any metal pipework then connected to the earth of the house wiring.
No direct connection is made to the hifi.
:) Alan
With an installation meeting the current requirements for electrical installations these bonding connectors will be already fitted. Only older properties are likely not to have these.
A fairly big (4mm sq, not sure) earth wire is strapped to any metal pipework then connected to the earth of the house wiring.
No direct connection is made to the hifi.
:) Alan
Couple of things. First I had no earth bonding at all as it is a old house. Also there was no earth continuous connectivity.
What are the mechanics of this earth? Does anything attach to the hifi?
Hi Tristan,
It was the earth continuous connectivity that made the biggest difference. One of my earth wires had dropped out of one of the ring main ground floor sockets.
Not sure if the earth bonding made any difference as it is not directly connected as Alan pointed out.
I've read through this thread with interest as I have been looking for a solution to increase the number of sockets available.
I would like to know if there is a Schuko outlet that will fit in place of a single UK 3 pin socket. From looking at images of the Schuko outlet it doesn't seem that the fixings are in the same place as the UK socket. This isn't to attach to the wall, it is to go into an Olson block. The problem with a Schuko block for me is that I need at least 2 standard 3 pin sockets for wallwarts. One possibility would be to fit 15A round pin plugs if necessary.
Any other suggestions?
At the moment a 2 gang switched socket feeds my digital and analogue kit via separate unfiltered distribution blocks. Are separate feeds worthwhile? I was going to fit an unswitched MK socket in place of the switched one but the existing tails were too short for the MK layout, I've got another unswitched socket to try but that won't happen until I redecorate, (hopefully) later in the year
MikeMusic
18-06-2015, 07:13
Be interesting to know
I wonder if the UK sockets on the back of my P10 could be easily swapped for Schuko.....
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