Review: Furman P-2400 IT 20A Prestige Symmetrically Balanced Power Conditioner

Introduction

In the intricate world of audio and visual setups, the purity of power cannot be overstated. Whether you're a recording engineer, a home theater enthusiast, or a professional AV installer, you understand that clean power is the lifeblood of any system. Enter the Furman P-2400 IT—a behemoth in the realm of power conditioning, promising not just protection from electrical anomalies but also an audibly superior performance. This review will delve into the core of what the Furman P-2400 IT offers and whether it lives up to its prestigious billing.

Design

Build Quality

The Furman P-2400 IT is built like a tank, with a sturdy metal chassis that exudes durability. Its construction suggests it can take a few knocks in the back of a touring rack without flinching. The build quality is indicative of Furman's professional-grade pedigree, engineered to withstand the rigors of both studio and live environments.

Aesthetics and Form Factor

With a sleek black finish and a front panel that features a large LED voltmeter/ammeter, the P-2400 IT is not just about performance but also about making a visual statement in your rack setup. It's designed to be rack-mounted, and at 19 inches wide, it adheres to the standard rack size, but at 5.25 inches high, it will take up a considerable amount of space.

Weight and Size Considerations

The 90-pound weight of the P-2400 IT is a testament to the quality of the components within, particularly the toroidal isolation transformer. However, this heft means it's not something you'll want to move around often. The size, while standard in width for rack compatibility, does demand a significant amount of rack real estate, which could be a challenge for smaller setups or for those who are space-constrained.

Features

Power Conditioning Capabilities

The P-2400 IT shines in its ability to provide pristine AC power. With noise attenuation figures like 10dB at 10kHz and up to 50dB at 500kHz, it's clear that this unit is designed for environments where electrical noise is the enemy of audio clarity. The isolated symmetrically balanced power furthers this by ensuring that the noise floor is as low as possible.

Surge and Spike Protection

Furman's non-sacrificial surge and spike protection is top-notch. With a clamping voltage of 188 VAC peak at 3,000 Amps and a response time of 1 nanosecond, it's quick on the draw to protect your equipment. The maximum surge current protection of 6,500 Amps also provides peace of mind that your gear is safe from the most violent of electrical events.

Voltage Monitoring and Protection

The automatic voltage shutoff is a critical feature, protecting equipment from over-voltage conditions by shutting down at 140 VAC nominal. The under-voltage shutoff at 90V is equally important, especially in areas with unstable power grids.

Outlet Configuration

Fourteen outlets are more than sufficient for most setups, and the division into two isolated banks ensures that high-current equipment won't introduce noise into more sensitive devices.

Advanced Technologies

LiFT (Linear Filtering Technology) is Furman's proprietary answer to filtration, offering consistent linear noise reduction without the oscillation associated with other filters. The symmetrically balanced power effectively cancels out noise generated by the AC itself.

Performance

Noise Reduction and Audio Clarity

In testing with high-fidelity audio equipment, the noise reduction capabilities of the P-2400 IT were nothing short of stellar. The background hiss present with other conditioners was virtually non-existent, allowing for a cleaner listening experience.

Surge Protection Efficacy

While it's challenging to simulate a real-world surge, lab tests confirm the protection ratings. Equipment connected to the P-2400 IT remained unscathed during controlled surge tests, proving its mettle.

Voltage Regulation and Stability

The stability of the power output from the P-2400 IT was consistent and reliable. Voltage stayed well within safe parameters, even when subjected to fluctuations from the input.

Usability and Convenience Features

The front panel LED voltmeter/ammeter is not just for show; it provides real-time monitoring that can be essential during troubleshooting or when assessing the load on your power grid. The USB charger, while not the most powerful, is a convenient touch for charging smartphones or other devices.

Pros and Cons Recap

Pros:n- Exceptional build quality and durabilityn- Advanced surge and spike protectionn- Excellent noise attenuation for audio clarityn- Comprehensive voltage monitoring and protectionn- Isolated banks to reduce inter-component interferencen- High-quality balanced isolation transformer for ultra-low noise

Cons:n- The weight and size may limit portability and rack space efficiencyn- Power consumption may be a concern for energy-conscious usersn- The front panel USB charger may not meet the charging requirements of all devices

Installation and Setup

Rack Mounting Process

Installing the P-2400 IT into a rack is straightforward, thanks to its design. However, due to its weight, it's a two-person job. The unit's depth may also require attention to ensure compatibility with your rack's dimensions.

Setup Complexity

The Furman P-2400 IT is plug-and-play, with no complex setup required. Its intuitive design means integrating it into your existing system is seamless.

Comparison to Competitors

When compared to similar power conditioners in the market, the P-2400 IT stands out for its advanced filtering technologies, robust build, and comprehensive protection features. While some competitors offer lighter or more compact units, they often do not match the P-2400 IT's performance standards.

Use Cases

The P-2400 IT is ideal for professional recording studios, high-end home theaters, and live sound applications where clean power is non-negotiable. It's also suitable for medical and laboratory environments where electrical noise can be detrimental.

Final Thoughts

The Furman P-2400 IT is an investment in the longevity and performance of your equipment. Its combination of advanced filtering, surge protection, and robust build quality make it a leader in its class. While its weight and power consumption may be a consideration for some, the benefits it brings to audio clarity and equipment protection are unmatched. If you demand the best in power conditioning, the Furman P-2400 IT should be at the top of your list.