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Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
PowerCell 14
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Wiring: All 10 awg. Silver Matrix point-to-point discrete wiring
- Output Connectors (US): 14 UEF Purple 2.0 Outlets
- Output Connectors (International): 14 UEF Purple 2.0 Outlets
- Input Connector: 1 Neutrik 32 amp PowerCon
- Electromagnetic Cell Area: 5187 square centimeters
- Dimensions: 5.2" x 17.5" x 14.2"
- Weight: 28 lbs
- Voltage Rating (US): 20amp/125v
- Voltage Rating (International): 16amp/250v
- Isolated Output Banks: 3
- Pure Silver Ground Strap: 62 square centimeters
Description
For over a decade, we've been incrementally refining and improving our PowerCell models to deliver best-in-class, award-winning line conditioning for the most demanding audio enthusiasts. Now in development of our forthcoming flagship SRX PowerCell, we're completely rethinking and re-engineering our newest generation of PowerCells to take your system to even greater heights with regards to effortless dynamics, engagement, and realism. Introducing the all new PowerCell 14. The power for passion has never been more evident.
A comprehensive redesign of the EM cell, inherited from our forthcoming flagship SRX PowerCell, more efficiently filters out contaminants to the signal, resulting in a lower noise floor and better dynamics. The overall surface area of the cell as gone up 100x from previous generations to deliver a significant increase in electromagnetic conditioning. Doubling its function as a supercapacitor, the amount of available energy has gone up 100x, enabling even the most power-hungry amplifiers to sound more dynamic with better leading-edge transients plugged into the PowerCell than plugging it straight to the wall.
The PowerCell 14 utilizes the Galileo SX PowerCell's power supply and ULF Field Generator and improves upon it in the following ways: We implement a reformulated Ultra Low-Frequency RF bias captured from learnings gleaned from our SRX PowerCell and Voodoo streamer/server development programs. The nature of how we bias ULF has dramatically changed. The way we integrate both ULF and DC into EM cells has also changed. The power supply that generates the DC bias to EM cells has been radically evolved. New 24k Gold UEF tuning circuits bring harmonic richness and enhanced musicality.
The PowerCell 14 chassis is mechanically and electromagnetically voiced. Machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, carbon fiber and plexiglass, its design strategically dampens and directs mechanical ...
The PowerCell 14 utilizes the Galileo SX PowerCell's power supply and ULF Field Generator and improves upon it in the following ways: We implement a reformulated Ultra Low-Frequency RF bias captured from learnings gleaned from our SRX PowerCell and Voodoo streamer/server development programs. The nature of how we bias ULF has dramatically changed. The way we integrate both ULF and DC into EM cells has also changed. The power supply that generates the DC bias to EM cells has been radically evolved. New 24k Gold UEF tuning circuits bring harmonic richness and enhanced musicality.
The PowerCell 14 chassis is mechanically and electromagnetically voiced. Machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, carbon fiber and plexiglass, its design strategically dampens and directs mechanical ...
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Synergistic Research products often include proprietary EM (Electromagnetic) cell technology to actively filter and condition AC power, without limiting current flow.
- They provide a range of tuning options, such as selectable ULF (Ultra Low Frequency) generators and included tuning discs, to tailor the sound to specific music genres or system preferences.
- SR power conditioners commonly feature isolated outlet banks designed to separate analog and digital components, reducing cross-contamination and improving overall clarity.
- Synergistic Research bundles their power conditioners with high-quality power cords and upgraded wall outlets, offering a complete power conditioning solution out of the box.
Select products
Select product comparisons
SR30 AC
- Positioning: The entry-level power cable in the Synergistic Research lineup.
- Description: Offers a balance of performance and affordability, featuring 12-gauge OFC copper for high current delivery. It includes UEF Matrix Shielding, similar to higher-end models like the Atmosphere SX, to reduce noise and enhance resolution.
Atmosphere SX Euphoria SX Level 3
- Positioning: A mid-tier power cable in the Atmosphere SX series.
- Description: Uses Active Shielding and Swiss-made power supply, offering a sound profile akin to the premium Galileo SX. It combines copper and silver conductors.
Galileo Discovery Power Cables
- Positioning: A high-end power cable series within the Synergistic Research lineup.
- Description: Features an Active EM Cell and UEF Matrix Shielding for noise reduction.
SRX AC
- Positioning: A premium power cable positioned just below the flagship SRX XL in the lineup.
- Description: Made with pure six-nines silver conductors and advanced UEF shielding.
SRX XL AC
- Positioning: The flagship power cable in the Synergistic Research lineup.
- Description: Features additional pure silver geometries and advanced tuning modules.
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Avg. Product Price
$10,001-$20,000
Used For Sale
77
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
98
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
54
Founding Year
1992
Our take on the brand
Synergistic Research stands out for their Active Shielding technology, which applies DC voltage bias to cable shielding to reduce noise, and their dual ULF generator system in products like the PowerCell 8 SX that enables switching between different sonic signatures. Their product line includes distinctive electromagnetic cell-based power conditioners and the Tranquility Pod, which uses active EM cells and Graphene to condition the electromagnetic environment within audio components.
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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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GigaWatt
PC-4 EVO+
11933
/
Released
2021
GIGAWATT PC-4 EVO+ is the quintessence of years of experience, research and work on uncompromising power conditioner design. The PC-4 EVO+ power conditioner not only effectively protects against interference and overvoltages occurring in the power supply, but most importantly guarantees a marked improvement in the sound and video quality of powered devices, without dynamic limitations.
GigaWatt is a hifi manufacturer specializing in power conditioning and power distribution systems that minimize noise in hifi systems.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Improves sound quality by removing subtle grain, leading to a purer reproduction of sound
- Enhances dynamics and impact, allowing music to flow more freely and organically
- Effectively eliminates noise from the powerline, as demonstrated by removing a surging buzz in one system
- Offers surge protection and overload protection without throttling current flow
- Features high-quality components such as proprietary power sockets, RLC filtering blocks, and silver-plated copper wiring, ensuring robust and clean power delivery
Product Considerations
- May require a 'settling in' period to reach its optimal performance
- The choice of power cable can influence the sound signature, requiring experimentation to match system needs
- Careful cable management is needed to avoid cable chaos, due to the size and number of outlets
- The initial investment may be significant
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs PC-3 SE EVO+—the PC-4 EVO+ '21 offers better differentiation in individual groups of instruments at the micro level
Takeaway: The PC-4 EVO+ offers a clean and robust power solution for high-end audio systems, enhancing sound quality and dynamics by eliminating noise and removing restraints, making the music more engaging. It is a well-built, top-class product that improves the overall listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
GigaWatt is a hifi manufacturer specializing in power conditioning and power distribution systems that minimize noise in hifi systems.
Product Page
Product Page
Stromtank
S-1000
15975
/
Released
2022
Everything that distinguishes the StromTanks can already be found in our smallest model: a mains-independent generated perfect sine wave for the best sound. Whereby „small“ should not be considered underpowered, because the entry into the StromTank world can also be the perfect choice for many. Depending on the system configuration and listening habits, there are no limits to absolute music enjoyment with the S1000-SourcePower. The main reason for this is the LFP batteries, and in the case of the S1000-SourcePower we are using 8 batteries (24V System). Due to their high cost, they have not been utilised in the audio sector so far, but they are extremely powerful, durable and safe. That is precisely our claim. Given the impressive dimensions of the StromTanks, it may seem almost ironic to say, but they are comparatively compact thanks to current battery sizes. Just a few years ago, the dimensions of a comparable device would have been simply absurdly large. If you prefer to listen to classical music with HiFi system that is not oversized, the S1000-SourcePower is your StromTank. By the way: even when our StromTanks are charging, your system sounds better. You don‘t believe that? You don‘t have to, you can hear it. Connect your system to the S1000-SourcePower and give it and yourself a few days. You will no longer want to listen without a StromTank.
Stromtank is unique among power conditioner brands for completely disconnecting audio systems from the power grid and using lithium iron phosphate batteries to deliver pure sine wave power. Their battery management system, developed with the Fraunhofer Institute, actively monitors and balances cells while handling both front-end and power amplifier components, unlike typical power conditioners that only support low-power devices.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Provides cleaner, more stable power to high-end components
- Improves color saturation and transparency
- Increases soundstage depth, width, and height
- Makes the music more real and live
- Lowers the noise floor, allowing more low-level detail to be reproduced, and a more coherent AC sine wave to be supplied to the equipment
Product Considerations
- The Stromtank S 1000 emits a quiet hum
- The 450VA continuous output power is not sufficient to deliver full power via some monoblock amplifiers
- The batteries will last roughly 15 years before energy storage drops by 20% if recharged once per day
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the AudioQuest Niagara 7000, the S-1000 provides more silence and space, and allows reverb around vocals to be more discernible
- With Stromtank battery power, the Dan D'Agostino's ability to convey detail increased to darTZeel levels, and its soundstage magic increased
Takeaway: The Stromtank S-1000 helps reveal the full potential of audio components by providing cleaner power, resulting in a more engaging and detailed listening experience. It can make a significant and noticeable improvement to soundstage depth and clarity.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Stromtank is unique among power conditioner brands for completely disconnecting audio systems from the power grid and using lithium iron phosphate batteries to deliver pure sine wave power. Their battery management system, developed with the Fraunhofer Institute, actively monitors and balances cells while handling both front-end and power amplifier components, unlike typical power conditioners that only support low-power devices.
Product Page
Product Page
GigaWatt
PowerMaster
11991
/
Released
2023
The GigaWatt POWERMASTER is an Ultra Hi-End power conditioner. It is the pinnacle engineering achievement of the GigaWatt brand, summing up the company's 25 years of development. PowerMaster guarantees effective surge protection, as well as a spectacular sound experience.
GigaWatt is a hifi manufacturer specializing in power conditioning and power distribution systems that minimize noise in hifi systems.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Video review
Our take on the brand
GigaWatt is a hifi manufacturer specializing in power conditioning and power distribution systems that minimize noise in hifi systems.
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Product Page
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Gryphon
Powerzone 3
17906
/
Released
2024
Forget everything you know about signal processing: compared to all other Power Conditioners, Gryphon PowerZone 3 introduces a unique and entirely superior way of improving the signal passing through it. In an electrical circuit, current flow is attended by micro-vibrations on a molecular level; basically, all current flow is, by definition, the transmission of energy through micro-vibrations.
Gryphon is one of the most respected high-end amplifier brands in the world. Its bass grip is phenomenal, thanks to an unusually high level of capacitance, which keeps everything tight and controlled, even with demanding speakers. Gryphon is also known for its bold, brutalist design—a look that a lot of people love. You’ll find their gear all over Europe and Asia, and the Diablo 333 is often considered an ‘endgame’ amp by those chasing the very best sound and aesthetics.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- All the instruments became clearer and better focused with the PowerZone in the system, with noticeable bass improvement
- The PowerZone optimizes the electrons' vibrational flow and minimizes spurious resonances and the distortions they create
- Music playback was described as 'more comfortable' with familiar recordings delivering increased width and depth
- The PowerZone helps the signal flow in a natural way, by using a better adapted environment
Product Considerations
- The PowerZone 3 is an expensive product
- The review mentions the reviewer changed two things at once in a demo: adding the conditioner and changing power cables
- The reviewer notes that the theory behind power products and how they work in tandem with a system is impossible to predict
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs PS Audio P20: The PowerZone produced a very different experience, with one friend commenting 'Where did the bass come from?'
Takeaway: The Gryphon PowerZone 3 can improve the clarity, focus, and bass of a high-end audio system, resulting in a more comfortable and enjoyable listening experience. It is an effective addition to power conditioning products.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Gryphon is one of the most respected high-end amplifier brands in the world. Its bass grip is phenomenal, thanks to an unusually high level of capacitance, which keeps everything tight and controlled, even with demanding speakers. Gryphon is also known for its bold, brutalist design—a look that a lot of people love. You’ll find their gear all over Europe and Asia, and the Diablo 333 is often considered an ‘endgame’ amp by those chasing the very best sound and aesthetics.
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Product Page
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