[Regalma]

I am big fan of cutting off all the AC to most of my equipment when I am not using it. This is to save energy, which is very important to me. Currently I am using a Monster Power filter and using the remote switching option. But I would like to move my amps off of the Monster. I have the skills and tools to build a relay box which I can then connect to a switch for the turning on the relay. I may even use the delayed, and switched output from the Monster to control it. That would give me a delay and still allow me to switch everything with one switch.

My question is, has anyone tried using relays in -ine with their AC? Have they noticed any effect on the sound?

I know there are "better" switched AC filters out there, but I am not going to spend $500, $1000, $10,000 on what MIGHT make a difference.

Thanks

[JoshK]

Never tried it but have always wanted to.

[anthony a.]

how about just wiring the outlet to a light switch and turn on the circuit when you enter the room or when its needed?  i may end up doing this in my new room as well.  i think its much simpler than a relay and "should" not affect sonics at all.

[JoshK]

Nice lo-tech solution. 

[Ethan Winer]

how about just wiring the outlet to a light switch and turn on the circuit when you enter the room or when its needed?

Yes, simplest is best. My home studio is setup like that with two wall switches - one for my power amps (I have bi-amped speakers) and another switch for everything else. So I turn on all the rack gear first, then the power amps, and turn them off in reverse when I'm done.

--Ethan

[anthony a.]

do you think there is any difference from cutting the power off to a component using its internal switch or from directly unlugging the power cord?  i would like to know if there can result any damage over time by doing it this way (light switch cuts off power).

[Regalma]

simple but not the cleanest. That means running wires to a light switch. I have a dedicated circuit that is shielded. I am sure the relay would be much cleaner, but I just interested in anyone else's experience. I have built several relay switched boxes for all sorts of purposes. It wouldn't be that big of a deal.

[Ethan Winer]

do you think there is any difference from cutting the power off to a component using its internal switch or from directly unlugging the power cord?

It depends on how the device is designed. In the old days, all power switches were in series with one leg of the AC feed, so turning off an amp or receiver etc by its power switch is the same as unplugging it from the wall. Newer devices, especially if they have a remote control, are always on. Otherwise they wouldn't be able to respond to the remote!

Unless your amps have memory features or other reasons to always be connected to the AC line, a light switch is a fine solution. Indeed, using any sort of external power switch - power strip, regulator, relay, etc - is the same as unplugging it from the AC line. Personally, I'd go with a light switch over a relay, unless the relay is very solidly built. Light switches can handle a lot of current and have very low resistance. Many relays have simple point-contacts that just barely touch each other.

--Ethan

[fred]

FYI, I installed separate relays into my monoblock AKSA amps 5 years ago.  They did not affect the sound have been working fine. 

[ebag4]

I have a relay driven by my preamp's DC trigger output to make and break power to my HTs IB sub amp.  It has worked without issue for more than 5 years now.

Best,
Ed