Japan-based Head-Fiers & power conditioning

[Jim_T]

This is somewhat related to a previous post about voltage in Japan and grounding. Does anyone living here in Japan use any kind of power conditioning? All of my stuff (stereo- and computer-related) is running off of two run-of-the-mill multi-outlet power bars. I'm wondering if actual power conditioning (such as Monster PS1000, ONEAC, etc.) would improve sound quality in any way. I don't have high-end stuff, just my home rig (which I can't really turn up anyhow) and a Headamp GS-1 amp with a Headroom Micro DAC on the way. I figure power conditioners from N. America won't do much good here if not properly grounded in a three-prong outlet, so where does that leave us? Does anyone have any of the Audio Technica power outlets? What are YOU using?

 

[Sinbios]

It's been a while since I've been in Japan, but I think the plugs there had a ground connection. Just get an adapter, or build your own power supply that gets rid of noise.

 

[Jim_T]

Actually, only a few plugs have a real ground. The outlet in my bathroom where the washing machine plugs into has a small screw where you attach the ground wire from the machine. Otherwise, outlets are two prong and they don't accept three pronged plugs. You can get a three-pronged outlet bar but it comes with a ground wire that you're supposed to attach to a proper ground. Not too sure about building my own ...

 

[Sasaki]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim_T Actually, only a few plugs have a real ground. The outlet in my bathroom where the washing machine plugs into has a small screw where you attach the ground wire from the machine. Otherwise, outlets are two prong and they don't accept three pronged plugs. You can get a three-pronged outlet bar but it comes with a ground wire that you're supposed to attach to a proper ground. Not too sure about building my own ...

You are right. Almost all of Japanese houses have been equipped with only 2P plug and no earth plug.
Many Japanese Hi-Fi audiophiles change it to 3P type but it is rare case.
But I do not use the power conditioning which you have mentioned, so I can not comment on it, sorry about this.

 

[Sinbios]

Does the outlet not have a hole for it, or is the wire unavailable altogether? If it's the former case, you can probably buy a new grounded outlet and install that instead.

 

[NOTHINGness]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sinbios Does the outlet not have a hole for it, or is the wire unavailable altogether? If it's the former case, you can probably buy a new grounded outlet and install that instead.

Problem is that only works if there is a ground wire ran to the outlet. You would probably have to also install a new run from the box.

 

[Jim_T]

Unfortunately I'm in a rented apartment and have no knowledge of things electrical. I guess I won't be bothering with fancy power conditioners and such until I move. Thanks everyone.

 

[MikoLayer]

sorry to jack your thread Jim_T, please excuse my indulgence

Sinbios, how did you like KOTOKO's new album? Glass no Kaze that is, the one that came out on June 8th.

 

[Sinbios]

Quote:

Originally Posted by MikoLayer sorry to jack your thread Jim_T, please excuse my indulgence Sinbios, how did you like KOTOKO's new album? Glass no Kaze that is, the one that came out on June 8th.

Ah, I haven't unpacked it yet. I just got Verge shipped to me though, so I'm just coming off a high

Definitely my favourite album.