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A passive device is anything that doesn't contain any powered electronic circuitry. Examples of passive devices include isolation transformers, surge protectors and resistor-inductor-capacitor (RLC) type conditioners. Power re-generators and UPS systems are active
devices.
Resistor-inductor-capacitor (RLC) devices represent the vast majority of 'audiophile' power conditioners on the market. The simplest devices forgo any resistors or inductors and simply place capacitors across live and neutral. More complex devices are comprised of resistors, inductors and capacitors. All of these products are essentially passive filters similar to those found in the majority of loudspeakers.
Many of these products increase mains impedance due to the components placed in series with the electrical supply. This can have the audible effect of reducing dynamics as impedance acts as a brake to the delivery of current. The best passive conditioners can be quite good but cannot match a good isolation transformer in terms of noise reduction, low supply impedance and ability to delivery higher dynamic current than the wall.
Home Theater Design. Scope of Work: Home theater layout, optimal placement of subwoofers, and ensuring optimal video viewing angles and sight lines. Additionally, we advised on baffle wall and riser designs and acoustic treatment design.
“We built this home theater so I could watch all of my favorite movies. It’s just a better experience overall. I wanted it to look better than anything possible, other than what you can see at the studio." Travis C.
Home theater in walk out basement. Scope of work: core home theater design package, sound isolation, HVAC, riser, hush box and baffle wall design.
"The end result is nothing short of spectacular." David W.
Home theater in custom home. Scope: core home theater design package w' sound isolation, equipment & acoustic treatment.
"Our room turned out way better than we ever expected. Everyone is amazed at the sound and picture quality!” Todd B.
Nyal Mellor, Founder, Acoustic Frontiers
Nyal Mellor
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