Voltages??

Im looking at importing a power-amp from America. I do know there is a voltage difference (110v vs. 240v).What is the best way to convert? Product recommendations?

Thanks

Chris

 

ask the manufacterer (what is it by the way) if they can convert it. some transformers are designed in such a way as to be able to be converted very easily for manufacturing reasons (naim for example can be converted by swapping some wires around). others may not be as easy though.
you can buy transformers from places like maplins however be careful if your power amp is a hefty one as the converter may not be able to cope with the current drawn etc. i believe they do do heavy duty version but they cost more of course. also i can't see the supply being that clean either so it may not be the best course of action.
have a surf on the net to see if there are any diy sites out there for the amp in question.
cheers

julian

 

Lots of Americans come to work in the chemical industries in Basel for a number of years and bring their smaller domestic appliances with them. Switzerland's voltage is 220, and many use transformers to make them work. From what I've heard, this is not entirely successful - the US equipment simply is not as efficient as either the US stuff in its native land or European stuff in Switzerland. Now, I know nobody who has ever tried to run a US hi-fi here and it may not make so much of a difference, as things with motors draw far more current. However, I agree with Julian; if the thing is not dual voltage (and a lot are these days, as the US 110V is not that common), see if the manufacturer can't adapt it.

 

The amps are 'Manley - Snapper (mono's)

Just looking on their website for manual to see if dual voltage.

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Yup, its just a matter of rewiring the mains transformer.

Cool

 

Chris, you could use an Isolation transformer, that outputs 110v, best of both worlds then

 

wadia-miester

Just done a search for 'Isolation Transformers'

The only solutions were 'distribution network' transformers.

To your knowledge do companies like Isotek, Russ Andrews and PS Audio offer these things?

Sorry, i have little knowledge on this.

Chris

 

Chris speak to Graham@ trichordresearch they do a cracking example, and I feel he may be able to do a step down version, or failing that, if you like an Industrial finish to your gear, then a RS 110v EI frame tranny will be your man. WM

Trichord

 

WM

Thanks for the advice.

Ill check it out now.

Chris

 

Last time I looked, Screwfix direct had a 3kW 110V isolation transformer for outside plant at about £60

 

just wire the 2 amps in series

 

Isn't US mains at 60 hz too ?

 

The 60hz, 50hz wont be a problem if you don't have motors, I brought my McIntosh gear from Canada, where I lived 7 years, and had to get a huge transformer built, the standard where not powerful enough...

It was a pain, until one day it blew, so I ditched the Mc...

 

Yes of coarse silly me didn't think it through.