( 4 reviews )
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Posted: 07-02-2009
Until a voltage anomaly occurs, it is hard to know how this unit performs. But, I have no reason to doubt the listed specifications. Based upon those specifications, this unit should provide far, FAR better protection than a simple surge protector. And, it appears to be a far better value than even the entry level voltage regulator from Monster, inc (the AVS 2000). The online manual for the AVS 2000 -- unlike this Panamax -- offers very few specifics on voltage regulation. What I can say is that my volt meter seems to indicate that the unit is providing even better protection than is advertised. The voltage entering my home normally ranges from 121V to 124V (not unusual). The unit advertises that it will not correct the voltage until it varies from 120V by plus or minus 6V. My very preliminary testing suggests that even within the 121V to 124V range, it is adjusting the voltage to something closer to 120V. Here in the wild, wild west, various critters tend to find their way into our electrical grid, thereby shorting things out in sometimes spectacular ways and creating all sorts of havoc, voltage anomalies and blackouts. The damage suffered by my previous A/V system -- then protected by a high quality surge protector -- may well have been caused by these errant critters. My hope and expectation is that this unit will substantially prolong the useful life of my new A/V system. Subjectively speaking, this unit does seem to have improved the picture and sound quality. But, I did not do any side-by-side testing.
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Posted: 06-01-2009
I've only had this unit for a couple of weeks, but I'd like to put in a good word for Panamax and their products. I now have this model due to a lightning strike and the destruction of a 12 year old Panamax 1000+ surge protector. The unit did its job, thereby saving my electronics, but it no longer functioned properly. [...]. What I'm most pleased about was the immediate improvement in the quality of sound coming from my stereo equipment. I'd been plagued by buzzing ever since installing a DVR, and this is now completely gone. Outside of this, the overall sound has improved...bass impact, very black backgrounds, etc... Even with a outboard power supply on my turntable, the improvement in sound of with my vinyl has been shocking. I'd have upgraded long ago if only I'd known. A definite five star rating, especially for those who value their sound quality and expect good customer support.
