Measurements and video
Contents
Metingen Isotek Syncro
We measured the Isotek Syncro with an Sbooster 5V power supply. Individual measurements of the Syncro say nothing, as we also explain that in the video below. What does give insight into the operation of the Isotek Syncro, is to connect a power supply behind it and then measure the performance of the power supply when we put DC on the mains. Fortunately, we can do that with our programmable AC generator.
We can clearly see that the Sbooster starts to distort when we add DC to the clean 230V supply. It’s not dramatic, but visible. If we put the Syncro in between, we see that the peaks are suppressed. The difference between with and without is really obvious. In short: the Isotek Syncro is measurably better.
Does one of these also make sense if you have “good” power supplies like Farad Super 3 for example? Or does such a power supply partly take care of the DC by it self?
Hi Tobias,
A DC power filter is something completely different.
In this video, Alpha Audio guru Jaap explains all about a DC-filter and how this differs from other power filtering: https://www.alpha-audio.net/videocast/isotek-syncro-and-gemini-what-is-the-difference/
As with all power products, we strongly advise to try this in your own system.
Decent conditioning always makes sense if your base-power is not in good order. Power supplies don’t like DC at all. Some may fix it, but it will degrade quality most of the time.
Educational review. Well done. Questions: 1. Are product model names typically consistent between EU and US? On their US site, I do not see the Syncro or Synchro either as active or retired. Today only Gemini / Nova / Titan One in increasing order of performance; 2. Can one anticipate that a tool like this will improve sound qualities regardless of size or cost? If so, when would you make the purchase: anytime or after you have some post-setup time listening? 3. Would you ever place this upstream from the amp? I am guessing it depends on the amp and the impact, right? 4. With a Class D amp in play, what would be the impact on the need for one of these?
And for Gene, for what it’s worth, I see IsoTek includes their Premier Power cable with all units. Thx in advance.
Hi Alan, first off, sorry for the delay in replying.
At the High End in Munich we saw a sample of the new Syncro which will be release in fall 2024. I suggest to wait for this new version.
As with all power products, we strongly advise to try this in your own system.
In this video, Alpha Audio Jaap explains all about a DC-filter and how this differs from other power filtering: https://www.alpha-audio.net/videocast/isotek-syncro-and-gemini-what-is-the-difference/
The impact of a DC filter depends on 1) the cleanliness of the power chain in and around your home/listening room. Lots of different power supplies (LED lights, power adapters, phone chargers, air conditioner) can really mess up your power (see the review) and 2) the power supply of your audio unit (also explained in the review).
This sounds like a good addition. However, something not mentioned in the review is the need for an additional power cord for each Uni used. That can easily add up to a lot of money for anyone using decent or better quality aftermarket power cords, who wants to maintain the same level.
Isotek sells those cables from very affordable prices on. But you can grab one lying at home if you like. We did use an EVO3 Initial (their entry level cable) between the wall socket and the Syncro and a no name power block from a DIY shop (nothing ‘audio’ grade) out of the Syncro and plugged the power cables from the Rega Planet and the Weiss into that power block.