>1) NEVER EVER NEVER daisy-chain power strips that contain surge
>>suppression. Meaning, don't do
>this:
>
>AC Outlet >>> Power Strip #1 >>> Power Strip #2
>
>This reasons are complicated, just trust me on this one. It has to do with
>>something called "longitudinal balance", and the end result is that
>>MOTM-900s plugged into Power Strip #2 will cause hum and noise. Some
>other >audio gear will also hum if you do this. And the surge
>suppression of Power Strip #2 is negated (in fact, it can HARM stuff).
That's a very common practice, considering that most power strips have some
sort of surge suppression.
For example, I use two separate circuits with isolated grounds ("hospital
outlets"), one is for my computer setup and DSP boxes with switching
supplies, the other is for everything else, including MOTM. On each of
those outlets I have a Tripplite LC2400 power conditioner. Although the
mixing board, monitor amp, and UPS are plugged directly into the LC2400's,
everything else is on Isobars plugged into the 2400's. I have Isobars
chained in a couple of places, and a couple of inexpensive power strips to
handle wall warts. I switch both the 2400's and the breakers off when it's
not in use.
I realize that Paul is busy working on modules, so perhaps Larry or some
other electrician could explain what "longitudinal balance" is, or at least
point me in the right direction webwise. I don't have any hum or noise,
and my setup at home is quieter than many of commercial studios I've
worked. However, I would like to keep my gear as safe as possible. I
realize you aren't Jerry McGuire, but "show me the math!!"
Afaik, a "longitudinal" is a wire that returns to ground through a load at
some remote point, but that ground is not carried along with the original
cable, as in a telegraph or alarm system using single wires. Then again, I
could be wrong.
Regardless, I'd like a technical explanation regarding power strips before
I change things in my studio or pass this advice along to other people.
Even if what Paul is saying true, I have to be able to back it up before I
can warn others.
THANX!!