Furman ELITE15PFI Filtering AC Power Conditioner Review

Introduction

In the realm of high-fidelity audio and immersive home theater experiences, power conditioning is a critical yet often overlooked component. The Furman ELITE15PFI stands as a testament to the importance of clean power in achieving the pinnacle of audiovisual performance. This review delves into the intricacies of the ELITE15PFI and evaluates whether its premium price point translates into a tangible enhancement of your home entertainment system.

Design

Build Quality and Aesthetics

The Furman ELITE15PFI exudes a robust build quality that one would expect from a high-end power conditioner. The unit's weight and dimensions signify a solid internal architecture, designed to withstand the rigors of electrical anomalies. The grainy finish, while potentially an aesthetic drawback for some, does little to detract from the overall impression of a product built to last. However, the finish’s propensity to reveal dust might require more frequent cleaning to maintain a pristine appearance.

Layout and Ergonomics

With a generous offering of 13 outlets, the ELITE15PFI provides ample connectivity for even the most extensive systems. The spacing of these outlets accommodates bulky power adapters without compromising adjacent outlets, a thoughtful touch. The bright blue LED, though a stylish marker of the unit's operational status, may prove to be a distraction in light-controlled environments such as home theaters. Users may need to devise a workaround, like dimming or covering the LED, to prevent it from detracting from the visual experience.

Features

Power Conditioning Capabilities

The cornerstone of the ELITE15PFI is its comprehensive approach to power conditioning. The surge protection, leveraging series mode technology, promises longevity and durability beyond typical MOV-based protectors. The inclusion of Zero Ground Contamination and Extreme Voltage Shutdown safeguards your equipment against ground noise and catastrophic voltage spikes, respectively. These features give users peace of mind, knowing their investment in audiovisual hardware is protected against power-related calamities.

Additional Functionalities

The Bi-directional ultrasonic filtering is a unique feature that aims to purify the power for analog or video components, potentially enhancing the clarity of the signal. The ELITE15PFI's compatibility with various power cords allows for a tailored power delivery experience, giving users the flexibility to optimize their system's performance according to their preferences.

Performance

Power Delivery and Clarity

The power factor corrected amplifier outlets claim to deliver over 55 amps of peak charge, ensuring that power-hungry amplifiers receive a steady and robust supply of electricity. While the benefits of this technology are somewhat debated, the potential for improved focus, clarity, and control in audio reproduction can be alluring for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike.

Noise Floor Reduction

In practical tests, the ELITE15PFI demonstrates a notable reduction in the system’s noise floor, resulting in a cleaner and more precise soundstage. This reduction allows for subtle details in music and film soundtracks to emerge, creating a more immersive listening experience.

Surge Protection and Equipment Safety

The unit's surge suppression capabilities are formidable, providing confidence that your equipment is secure from electrical transients. The safety features of the ELITE15PFI, such as Extreme Voltage Shutdown, act as a final line of defense against voltage irregularities, protecting not just the power conditioner itself, but all connected devices.

Practical Considerations

Installation and Setup

The ELITE15PFI integrates seamlessly into most home theater setups, with a standard 2 RU height that fits comfortably in equipment racks. However, the short power cord may limit placement options, necessitating the use of an extension or a replacement with a longer cord. Additionally, users should be aware that the Power Factor Technology, while beneficial for amplifier performance, may trigger circuit breakers or UPS systems when drawing loads greater than 15A.

Usability

Day-to-day operation of the ELITE15PFI is unobtrusive, with minimal heat generation and quiet operation. The unit's design allows for easy access to all outlets, though the potential issue with the overly bright LED persists as a minor annoyance.

Pros and Cons

The Furman ELITE15PFI stands out for its robust surge protection, exceptional build quality, and the ability to deliver a purified power supply to your audiovisual equipment. The improvement in sound clarity and reduction of the noise floor are significant benefits for users seeking an uncompromised listening experience. The compatibility with different power cords and the unit's reliability, backed by a 3-year warranty, add to its appeal.

On the flip side, the pending NRTL-C safety listing raises some concern, although this is often a procedural step and not indicative of any inherent safety issues. The Power Factor Technology's effectiveness may not be universally recognized, and its interaction with circuit breakers and UPS devices can be problematic. The short power cord and bright LED are minor grievances but worth considering for potential buyers. Lastly, the grainy finish, while durable, might demand more maintenance to keep the unit looking its best.

Final Thoughts

The Furman ELITE15PFI is a formidable contender in the realm of high-end power conditioners, offering a suite of features that cater to the discerning audiophile and home theater enthusiast. Its build quality, power conditioning capabilities, and surge protection features justify its position as a premium product. While it has its quirks, such as the bright LED and the short power cord, these are relatively minor and can be mitigated with simple workarounds. For those seeking to protect and enhance their investment in high-quality audio and video equipment, the ELITE15PFI presents a compelling option, albeit with a few considerations to keep in mind.