Mains block - any that don't mess up the sound?

[Tim F]

Hi all,

After some mains extension blocks. What do you recommend that won't compress the sound, I've had some surge protection ones that seem to have a negative effect. I hear that switches are also a bad idea. Interested in some v cheap (probably my short term buy) and more expensive options.

Cheers, Tim

[Barry]

Olson mains distribution strips are good. Just disconnect the neon indicator, if it has one, and overide the switch. They're not expensive.

https://www.vdctrading.com/shop/mains/19-mains-distribution-units/olson-19/13a-sockets/olson-19-rackmount-13-amp-4-unswitched-outlets/

[Tim F]

Good advice, thanks Barry.

[MikeMusic]

Go for unswitched sockets on the wall where you can.
I used to have a bank of 3 doubles.

Cheapo Mains blocks will make the sound horrid. No switches or neons for sure.
2nd hand on Ebay will show a lot of alternatives.

Perhaps more than you want right now....
Unswitched bank if you can
If not a mains block with Schuko sockets so you can do away with those limiting 13 amp fuses legally

[WESTLOWER]

Hi all,

After some mains extension blocks. What do you recommend that won't compress the sound, I've had some surge protection ones that seem to have a negative effect. I hear that switches are also a bad idea. Interested in some v cheap (probably my short term buy) and more expensive options.

Cheers, Tim

https://www.pinkfishmedia.net/forum/threads/russ-andrews-6-way-powerlink-mainsblock.218192/

[337alant]

Olson mains distribution strips are good. Just disconnect the neon indicator, if it has one, and overide the switch. They're not expensive.

https://www.vdctrading.com/shop/mains/19-mains-distribution-units/olson-19/13a-sockets/olson-19-rackmount-13-amp-4-unswitched-outlets/

+1 for the Olsun mains blocks I have a 10way (neon and switch bypassed)
Alan

[Macca]

Try to avoid plugging you amp into one though. Always plug the amp straight into the wall unless there is no option.

I've got one of these http://www.russandrews.com/powerbar-s-4way/ but it is complete overkill cost -wise IMO. But I reckon the crappy ones can introduce a bit of noise somehow.

[The Black Adder]

Mark Grant ones are absolutely superb. Always a good choice. :)

[Spectral Morn]

Mark Grant ones are absolutely superb. Always a good choice. :)

+1

[Pieoftheday]

Hi all,

After some mains extension blocks. What do you recommend that won't compress the sound, I've had some surge protection ones that seem to have a negative effect. I hear that switches are also a bad idea. Interested in some v cheap (probably my short term buy) and more expensive options.

Cheers, Tim

I bough an 'AUDIO FRIENDLY' mains block from their eBay shop, it has no effect on the sound at all ,in my system at least,6 sockets and a 1.5 metre captured power cord, £35 delivered I think:)

[keiron99]

I'm on the lookout for a similar thing too.

What about this here?
(https://www.cablemonkey.co.uk/uk-socket-rack-pdus/41986-uk-socket-iec-c14-plug-rack-pdu.html#/671-surge_protected-no/673-digital_ammeter-no/234-no_of_sockets-6_sockets)
I notice in the IT industry they call these things a PDU.

[JohnG]

Is it possible to receive a further description on the legality of using two pin Schuko plug sockets in the UK.
I have toyed with this idea in the past, just because the plugs are priced better and more available in terms of multiple Brands being on offer.
I was looking at UK mains supply to 3500 KVA Isolation Transformer(new addition and idea) to Schuko distribution boxes ( old idea).

[Yomanze]

I also use Olson unswitched, no neon.

[Yomanze]

Is it possible to receive a further description on the legality of using two pin Schuko plug sockets in the UK.
I have toyed with this idea in the past, just because the plugs are priced better and more available in terms of multiple Brands being on offer.
I was looking at UK mains supply to 3500 KVA Isolation Transformer(new addition and idea) to Schuko distribution boxes ( old idea).

If you have to ask... just don’t do this.

[rmcin626]

I bough an 'AUDIO FRIENDLY' mains block from their eBay shop, it has no effect on the sound at all ,in my system at least,6 sockets and a 1.5 metre captured power cord, £35 delivered I think:)

Do you have a link to this block?

[JohnG]

I am not a experimental electrician, all works will be carried out by a electrician who works with a wide range of electrical systems, through his specialising in building management system control.
His broad experience is perfect for supporting my set up.
He will advise on the regulations of what is acceptable.
I was looking for a idea to propose and have checked out.

[Pieoftheday]

Do you have a link to this block?

Hi Robin, if you Google Audio Friendly mains block or just search it on eBay, Jim

[rmcin626]

Hi Robin, if you Google Audio Friendly mains block or just search it on eBay, Jim

Cheers Jim, found it

[Pieoftheday]

Cheers Jim, found it

I'm rubbish at links, never seem to do it right:doh:

[Barry]

Is it possible to receive a further description on the legality of using two pin Schuko plug sockets in the UK.
I have toyed with this idea in the past, just because the plugs are priced better and more available in terms of multiple Brands being on offer.
I was looking at UK mains supply to 3500 KVA Isolation Transformer(new addition and idea) to Schuko distribution boxes ( old idea).

You can legally use Schuko sockets on your mains distribution board, provided the flying lead is fitted with a UK plug, either a 13A BS1363 square pin type fitted with an appropriate fuse, or the older round pin type (but only if the corresponding wall socket is part of a radial system where each socket is protected by a 15A fuse or 16A circuit breaker in the consumer unit).

What you are not allowed to do is to fit Schuko wall sockets to the existing permanent domestic wiring (even if it is a radial system).

If you are going to use an isolation transformer, you should have fuses fitted to both the primary winding (usually provided by the fuse in the plug top) and the secondary winding.

If you are thinking of using a transformer with a centre-tapped secondary (as a balanced mains unit) then a double-pole mechanically linked circuit breaker ought to be fitted on the secondary side. And if you are going to use a balanced mains unit, make sure all of your audio components are plugged into the secondary, that is make sure you have enough Schuko sockets for the entire system: don't mix balanced with unbalanced mains supplies.

[JohnG]

Thank you Barry
I know a man who will understand exactly what you are talking about.
The Isolation Transformer is a Victron 3600 VA.