Audio Video News

U.K.-based iFi Audio has introduced an eight-outlet power conditioner that uses active noise cancellation to ensure a “clean, consistent” flow of power to an AV system.

Designed to reduce noise in incoming electrical power, the PowerStation ($499) is the first multi-outlet “whole-system” product to incorporate the company’s proprietary Active Noise Cancellation II technology, which is said to reduce noise across the frequency spectrum by about 40 dB. The technology is similar to the processing used in noise-cancelling headphones in that it generates an “inverse noise current to cancel out noise” in the incoming power.

The system also uses passive filtering on each outlet to “eradicate” high-frequency noise caused by wireless transmission systems. The combination is said to reduce differential mode noise caused by sources such as switching power supplies and common mode noise, which includes interference from Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals.

iFi says most power conditioners use passive noise reduction through a selection of filters and regulators, which tend to be effective at high frequencies but less so at lower frequencies. Conventional passive power conditioners also use large power capacitors, which make them bulky and expensive.

The PowerStation includes a smart diagnostics system that helps avoid problems by indicating correct polarity and whether an effective earth ground is in place. The lack of good grounding can produce an audible buzz or hum through a system’s speakers. iFi offers an optional Intelligent Ground cable if the ground is found to be ineffective; it’s designed to avoid creating a ground loop, which can cause a buzz or hum.

In addition to reducing noise in incoming power, the PowerStation is designed to instantaneously protect connected components from electrical spikes and power surges; the system will reboot only when it is safe to do so.

Each of the system’s eight AC outlets is independently isolated in its own chamber to prevent differential mode cross-contamination, and strategically placed EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) is used to dampen vibrations. Continuous-cast 99.9999% Oxygen-Free High-Conductivity (OFHC) copper is used throughout the device to ensure solid conductivity. This includes heavy-gauge internal wiring with multi-layered polymer insulation, solid PurCopper bus bars, and the conductive elements of the AC outlets themselves.

For more information, visit ifi-audio.com.