top of page
HOW CAN WE HELP?
-
What kind of plastic is used for the Essential Audio Tools products?All Essential Audio Tools products are made of POM-C synthetic material.
-
Why are the products made of POM-C?POM-C, also referred to as acetal copolymer is produced using a copolymerization process. By introducing a co-monomer during the polymerization, the material exhibits enhanced toughness, improved impact resistance, great chemical resistance and exceptional vibration properties . POM-C also excels in machinability. Due to these characteristics we can ensure a consistent level of the highest quality.
-
In what way is the synthetic material (POM-C), used for the casings, beneficial in comparison to metal casings used by competitors?The POM-C used in our products is chosen because of its mechanical properties. It doesn't resonate/vibrate when it is affected by 50Hz electro-magnetic fields. These, low frequency, 50Hz electro-magnetic fields are induced by your other electronic devices. This form of energy may directly influence the distribution and quality of your mains power supply feeding your audio equipment. A metal case does provide more protection against air-born interferences. Yet, your mains supply is already affected by air-born interference because of the hundreds of meters long unshielded wires in your walls. It is much more important to filter these interferences, already present on your mains supply, than it is to block a fraction of extra air-born interference by a metal casing.
-
Is grounding/earth required?Yes, grounding/earth plays a major role in mains power supply audio equipment. Proper grounding helps to minimize the risk of electrical shock and provides a path for excess electrical current to safely dissipate. Besides that, grounding can reduce unwanted noises and interferences. But, if there happens to be no grounding/earth, don't worry. If you were to connect a Mains Multiplier with grounded power cables to an ungrounded socket, the Mains Multipliers ensures that all earth connections of the devices end at one point (star earthing), which prevents a potential difference between the earths of the different devices. The absence of these potential differences prevents equalization currents through the shielding of the interconnects, which can only improve the sound quality.
-
Which product or combination of Essential Audio Tools products would solve humming/buzzing/vibrating amplifiers?The mains supply is different in every situation. Those mechanical/electrical noises can have different causes; earth loop, distortion on the mains, DC offset, reversed phase-neutral connections etc. The answer depends on where the noise is coming from. For instance; If the noises are coming from a (toroidal) transformer there might be a DC offset on your mains supply. We have multiple products to solve different problems, like the Mains Multiplier series, Noise Eater and DC Blocker. See their respective product pages for more information. If you have any questions feel free to contact us, or contact your local dealer.
-
What is the proper length for an audio power cable?The proper length for an audio power cable is generally advised to be as short as possible. This is due to the fact that longer power cables can result in reduced efficiency, increased resistance, and potential for electromagnetic interference, ultimately affecting the performance of your audio equipment.
-
I want to reduce my cable mess, how can I do this?To address this issue, we've designed the Current Spyder, a revolutionary mains power supply solution that can significantly reduce cable mess. The Current Spyder features multiple outlets in a compact and sleek design, allowing you to power up to three devices from a single source.
-
What is the purpose of a Common Mode filter in the mains power supply?A common mode filter in mains power supply for audio equipment serves the crucial function of reducing electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI) that can negatively impact the performance of audio devices. Specifically, the common mode filter helps to suppress noise and unwanted signals that may be present on the mains power supply, ensuring that your audio equipment receives clean and stable power. In the end this contributes to improved audio quality, reduced system noise, and enhanced overall performance.
-
What is the purpose of a Differential Mode filter in the mains power supply?A Differential Mode filter in the mains power supply serves the purpose of removing any noise or interference that is present in the electrical supply. This filter is specifically designed to target and eliminate differential mode noise, which is the unwanted electrical noise that flows between the live and neutral conductors of the power supply.
-
What is the difference between Common Mode filtering and Differential Mode filtering?Common Mode filtering and Differential Mode filtering are both techniques used on the mains power supply to reduce electromagnetic interference in audio equipment. Common Mode filtering targets noise that appears on both the live and neutral conductors of the power supply, while Differential Mode filtering targets noise that appears between the live and neutral conductors.
-
What is Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)?Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) refers to the disturbance caused by an electromagnetic field on the operation of an electronic device, such as your audio equipment. This interference can result in static, hum, or other unwanted noise in audio signals, compromising the quality of sound.
-
What is Radio-Frequency Interference (RFI)?Radio-Frequency Interference (RFI) refers to any electromagnetic disturbance that disrupts the audio signal by introducing unwanted noise or interference. This can be caused by various sources, including nearby electrical equipment, wireless devices, or even environmental factors.
-
What is the difference between EMI and RFI?Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and Radio-Frequency Interference (RFI) are both forms of electrical noise that can affect audio equipment. EMI is interference caused by electromagnetic fields, typically from power lines, motors, or other electrical devices. RFI, on the other hand, is interference caused by radio frequency signals, often from cell phones, radios, or other wireless devices.
-
What is a Faraday cage?A Faraday cage is a conductive enclosure designed to block electromagnetic fields. When it comes to mains power supply for audio equipment, the use of a Faraday cage is beneficial to prevent interference from external electromagnetic sources.
-
Neighbouring electrical installations spread noises on the electrical circuit (around 5KHz). This noise is audible through the amplifier. What solution does Essential Audio Tools recommend in this particular case?A Noise Eater would be the best fit to cancel this noise. It has multiple filter sections that can kill or reduce the 5KHz. Positioning the product nearby the source of the problem is important. Otherwise, place the product close to the mains supply connector of the amplifier.
-
What is star-wiring?Star-wiring refers to the method of connecting all power outlets directly to a single centralized point, rather than sharing the same neutral, live and earth wiring.
-
How does star wiring benefit my audio system?Star-wiring in your audio system helps minimize electrical interference and ground loop issues, which can degrade audio quality and introduce unwanted noise and hum. By ensuring each piece of equipment has its own dedicated power source, star-wiring helps maintain clean and consistent power delivery, resulting in improved sound quality and overall performance of your audio system.
-
What is Oxygen Free Copper (OFC)?Oxygen Free Copper (OFC) is a type of high conductivity copper that is free from oxygen, with a minimum copper content of >99.99%.
-
How does Oxygen Free Copper (OFC) benefit my audio system?OFC offers several benefits. Firstly, its high conductivity allows for the efficient transmission of your mains supply, resulting in clearer and more accurate audio reproduction. Additionally, OFC cables have lower signal loss and distortion compared to other types of copper, ensuring that the audio signal remains pristine throughout the cable. Furthermore, the absence of oxygen in OFC prevents the formation of copper oxide, which can degrade the wiring's performance over time. This means that OFC cables offer better longevity and reliability, making them a valuable investment. We prioritize the use of OFC in our products.
-
Where can I purchase Essential Audio Tools products?You can purchase Essential Audio Tools products through authorized dealers and retailers. These can be found on the websites of our distributors. For our distributor network you can click here.
-
Where are the products produced?All of our products are produced and assembled in our own factory in the Netherlands. Therefore, we can continuously monitor the quality of the entire process and ensure that every individual product produced meets our quality standard.
-
How to connect my product to my audio equipment the proper way?Our Mains Multipliers and Power Cables have a phase indication feature, simplified; a red mark. This red mark is an indicator where the phase of the product is connected. For a proper connection you need to connect the phase of your Essential Audio Tools product to the phase of your audio equipment or power outlet.
-
What to expect when using an Essential Audio Tools product?When using an Essential Audio Tools product, you can expect reliable and high-quality mains supply solutions that are specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of audio equipment. Whether you are using one of our Mains Multipliers, Power cables, or Audio Tools, you can expect clean and stable power delivery, effective noise reduction, and protection against power spikes and surges. Our products are designed to optimize the performance and lifespan of your audio equipment, ensuring the best sound quality. Additionally, depending on the specific product you choose, you can also expect unique features such as a Ground-Bridge or a copper Faraday cage. Overall, using an Essential Audio Tools product guarantees a seamless and efficient power supply solution for all your audio needs.
-
What is the difference between the old Current Conductor (CC) classic and the newer Current Conductor L (CCL)?The current, newer, Current Conductor L has Oxygen Free Copper (OFC) conductors. The Current Conductor classic had normal copper conductors. Thus, the Current Conductor L sounds a lot better; smoother, more informative and with a better spotlight effect. In a good recording the performers are more 'visible' in its stereo image.
-
What conductors are used in Essential Audio Tools power cables?Twisted multi-stranded Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) conductors.
-
Is the Current Conductor (CC) cable protected against EMI/RFI?Yes, the Current Conductors are built with two layers of screening; a 100% closed aluminium foil and a tinned braided copper screen. This double shielding protects the nearby signal cables from the fields generated by the current flowing through the conductors. It also works the other way around: preventing the conductors picking-up airborne disturbances from the environment.
-
Are the Current Conductors (CC) halogen free?No, the insulation of the cables is PVC (Polyvinylchloride). If the insulation of the cables were PE (Polyethylene) or PP (Polypropylene) the cables would be halogen free, but than the flexibility of the cable would be significantly compromised. Thus resulting in a much stiffer cable. The PVC currently used is flame-retardant, contributing to a safer environment overall.
-
Can the products endure overvoltage/lighting impact?No, no manufacturer can provide a guarantee that products won't be harmed in the event of overvoltage such as lightning strikes (including installers of professional lightning conductor systems). This natural violence has so much energy and can enter the (electrical) installation in various ways (e.g. through CAI connection, internet connection, earth etc.) Nonetheless, every additional piece of overvoltage protection is an extra barrier that may prevent a lot of misery.
-
What is the difference between the Current Conductor S (CCS) and the Current Conductor L (CCL)?The Current Conductor S (CCS) has smaller conductors; 3x 0.75mm2, while the Current Conductor L (CCL) has 3x2.5mm2 conductors. Therefore, the maximum current is 5A for the CCS and 10A for the CCL. Additionally, due to the different dimensions of the conductors, there is a difference in the outer diameter of the cables. Resulting in a more flexible cable for the CCS.
-
What kind of filter does the Noise Eater (NE) include?The filter in the Noise Eater is a triple section filter. These filters are C-, R-C-, L-C-circuits in a parallel and a pulse protection between N (neutral) and L (live).
-
What is the best placement for the Noise Eater (NE)?Our first advise would be to place the Noise Eater in the second socket of a double wall outlet where your power strip is connected. If that isn't possible we suggest placing the Noise Eater in the first output of your power strip, which is the one closest to the mains supply connector. It could be that in your configuration the Noise Eater performs better in a different output. This really depends on what kind of noise/disturbance is on your mains supply and where that is coming from.
-
Does the Noise Eater (NE) have phase indication?The Noise Eater has a filter built between the neutral and live (also known as phase), therefore the Noise Eater doesn't need, and doesn't have, phase indication. Either way the product would be properly connected.
-
Does the Noise Eater (NE) interfere with powerline Ethernet (data network through electrical installation)?The home plugs for your Ethernet works with frequencies around 2MHz-30MHz which is quite high compared to operating frequency range(s) of the Noise Eater. If the home plug (sending or receiving end) is next to the Noise Eater, there could be a small chance that the Noise Eater affects the home plug. If the home plug is positioned further away from the Noise Eater it all depends on the connections in the electrical wiring. The possibility of the Noise Eater effecting the whole electrical network is close to zero, as it only works locally.
-
Is Earth required for the Noise Eater (NE)?The Noise Eater primarily functions between the neutral and phase, making the presence of an earth connection non-essential. The Noise Eater filters interference from the mains, which generally results in more peace and detail from the audio set. This of course varies per situation, as disruptions to the mains differ everywhere. All the feedback we have had from customers have been positive, there were even customers who reported that the picture of the tv had improved. The Noise Eaters benefits might even improve when you turn the product 180 degrees (changing the two pins in your wall outlet/power strip socket).
-
Can I order a Noise Eater (NE) with a UK plug?Yes, we do offer Noise Eaters with a UK plug.
-
Does the Current Spyder (CS L) only makes sense when all connected units have their phase on the same side?Yes, the IEC connector has fixed phase, neutral and earth connections. This is an international standard. Therefore the only possible way to connect the Current Spyder connectors to your equipment is the proper way.
-
While simultaneously using a Current Spyder (CS L) and a Mains Multiplier (MM), which group should I use when there is an amplifier and digital sources connected?Most customers either have a Mains Multiplier or a Current Spyder. As the Current Spyder is meant to minimize the cable mess behind their audio equipment. But in this particular case, we suggest to connect the power amplifier or integrated amplifier to the first output socket of the Mains Multiplier (the one closest to the mains input connector). Then connect the Current Spyder to one of the filtered/digital outputs of the Mains Multiplier. At last connect low power equipment like a CD-player, DAC, phono stage etc. to the Current Spyder outputs. Another piece of advice would be to play around with the configuration because everyone's situation is different. Testing several setups could be beneficial, this all depends on how clean the mains supply and your equipment is.
-
What kind of filtering do the filtered outputs in the Mains Multiplier 5 (MM5), Mains Multiplier 7 (MM7) and Mains Multiplier 8 (MM8) provide?The Mains Multipliers mentioned above have multiple High-Frequency filtered outputs. This means that there is a small (parallel) filter on the outputs farthest from the input connector, specifically designed for low power/low signal equipment (e.g. CD-players, DVD-players, pre-amps, phono stages, DAC's etc.). These outputs can also serve high power equipment such as power amplifiers, integrated amplifiers, or subwoofers; however, this may result in a decrease in the filtering effectiveness. We always recommend to use the first output (the output closest to the input socket) for the highest power equipment and the last output for the lowest power equipment.
-
When using your Mains Multipliers (MM), does it make sense to add a Noise Eater (NE)?Most definitely. The Noise Eater is a parallel filter which works differently than the filters inside the various Mains Multiplier models.
-
Are the filters in the Mains Multiplier 5 (MM5), Mains Multiplier 7 (MM7) and Mains Multiplier 8 (MM8) in parallel or in series?The MM5, MM7 and MM8 have parallel filters.
-
The Filtered Multiplier 8 (FM8) has several Common Mode filters, which are recommended for pre-amplifiers, digital surround processors and light to medium subwoofers. Wouldn't this be much more important for heavy loads like big power amps?Filtering the main power supply for amplifiers is (also) important, especially for high power equipment that demand rapid and steep currents. Filters may have a slight delay in delivering current from the input to the output, which can impact the sound quality when heavy bass or other high power demands are not met instantly. In the Filtered Multiplier 8, Group 3 features a differential mode filter followed by a common mode filter for each output, making them unsuitable for power amplifiers due to their limited power output of 2A. On the other hand, Group 2 in the FM8 has two outputs with individual common mode filters, each limited to a respective 6A, making those outputs suitable for power/integrated amplifiers.
-
Does the Sound Saver (SS) work without earth?No, the Sound Saver does not work without earth connection.
-
What are the safety precautions?In the manual supplied with the product you may find its specific safety precautions. If you have lost it or are unable to locate your product manual; click here for our complete list of manuals.
-
What does the Ground-Bridge do?The Ground-Bridge is a unique feature of some of our Mains Multipliers that helps to minimize the presence of ground loops in audio equipment. It works by providing a direct connection between the grounding points on different pieces of audio equipment to your own external earth, effectively equalizing the ground potential and reducing the risk of unwanted noise and hum. This is especially crucial in audio setups where multiple pieces of equipment are interconnected, as it helps maintain a clean and interference-free audio signal. The Ground-Bridge essentially acts as a pathway for any stray electrical currents to be safely diverted, preventing them from interfering with the audio signal. By utilizing the Ground-Bridge feature, users can enjoy a more reliable and professional audio experience, free from the distractions of ground loop interference. The Ground-Bridge is a feature seen in the Mains Multiplier 6+, Mains Multiplier 8+ and Filtered Multiplier 8. Figure: Ground-Bridge
-
How can I contact Essential Audio Tools?The fastest, simplest way would be through our contact form. Click here.
-
How do I subscribe for updates on the latest news and/or e-mail campaigns?By agreeing to our 'Terms and Conditions' when contacting us through our 'contact us' form. You could also e-mail us directly to the e-mail address at the footer of the website and state that you want to be subscribed. This is a free service.
-
How do I unsubscribe from receiving updates on the latest news and/or e-mail campaigns?By contacting us, and mentioning you would like to unsubscribe, through our 'contact us' form. You could also e-mail us directly to the e-mail address at the footer of the website and state that you want to be unsubscribed.
-
I can't find something on the website, is there any help?Yes, for shortcuts in navigation on our website you can use our sitemap. If that isn't sufficient you can use the search bar found in the header of our website. At last, you can contact us directly through our 'contact us' form, e-mail to info(at)essentialaudiotools.com or give us a call (phone number: +31 (0)70 319 37 05).
-
Can I register my purchased product?No, at the moment we do not offer this service.
-
My Mains Multiplier is not working, what do I do?There are no serviceable parts inside. Do not open your Mains Multiplier! Please check the following before requesting service: 1 – Check the wall socket by plugging in a light or load to check if the power is present. 2 – Check if the power cord from the wall socket to the Mains Multiplier is functioning and make sure the power cord is plugged deep enough into the Mains Multiplier’s input. 3 – Check your equipment and the power cord by connecting them directly to a wall socket to test if they work without the Mains Multiplier in between. Please contact your local dealer if all of the above is tested and working, but the unit is still not functioning.
-
How can I claim warranty for a defect product?When warranty is claimed; the product, the original bill with the buyer’s name and date of purchase should be presented to your nearest dealer.
-
When will my warranty void?Warranty will void if: – The device has not been used in conformance with the user manual. – The device has been used in an industrial environment. – The bill has been altered or made illegible. – Modifications or repairs have been performed by non-authorized persons. – Malfunction is caused by device-external conditions, such as: overloading, atmospheric discharges and fire or water damages etc. Warranty is limited to damages regarding the product itself: all eventual consequential damages are not covered by warranty.
-
How long does the warranty last on purchased products?Essential Audio Tools products have a warranty period of two years from date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and failures within products specifications.
-
Where can I find the Privacy Policy?Our 'Privacy Policy' can be found in the footer of our website. Or you can click here.
-
Where can I find the Terms and Conditions?Our 'Terms and Conditions' can be found in the footer of our website. Or you can click here.
bottom of page