APC Line-R

[Shaolin]

Search didn't help with this.

Thinking of getting this voltage regulator for the UK. There's a 1200VA version and a 600VA for not much less over on eBuyer. Not sure if one is more appropriate than the other for pcs, preamps, monitors etc. And does thie eliminate the need for my simple surge protectors?

Any advice from intelligent geeks appreciated!

[Matt Syson]

Hi
Unless you are in a remote location with poor mains supply you shouldn't need regulation in the UK as all decent gear has it internally. The general requirements are for gear to operate correctly for mains withing a tolerance of (I think) -10 percent and +6 percent. Practically 218 Volts to about 254 Volts. (based on nominal 240 Volts)
If you want a regulator, bigger is probably better.
Matt S

[Shaolin]

Thanks Matt.

What about a pc as opposed to outboard studio gear? I'm running a Lynx L22 high end card inside my custom i7. I isntalled a reputable manufacturer's psu (can't remember which) 650W. I read on some other post how regulation helps soundcards.

[Matt Syson]

Hi
I am somewhat sceptical about that.
Power supplies inside gear 'regulate' continuously as as long as there is sufficient 'raw' input then they will work just fine whatever is thrown at it.
The switchmode supplies in PCs can usually cope with about 90 to 260 Volts so a small amount of drop from a nominal 230 or whatever is largely immaterial.
I suppose this is GEARslutz but there is a point where buying 'stuff' is just diversionary tactics to avoid actually making good music. Buying a 'little box' to sort out hum problems which are essentially wiring fopars is just an example.
Matt S

[Shaolin]

Thanks for the heads up!

That SysonStein of yours looks juicy btw...