Hi-Fi Power Supplies

About Hi-Fi Power Supplies

Hi-fi power supplies provide a fundamental upgrade over the standard power supplies that come with most equipment. If you’re connecting to mains power with a standard power supply, you might notice unwanted hum or background noise creeping into your system, especially at higher volumes. This is because, in the UK and Europe, the 230V AC system alternates at 50Hz (50 times per second), which can introduce audible noise into speakers at 50Hz and 100Hz.

By upgrading to a dedicated power supply, you can reduce this interference, resulting in cleaner, more accurate sound reproduction.

Many hi-fi power supplies also include a ground lift function to eliminate unwanted noise caused by ground loops, which can act as antennas for interference. Ground loops occur when multiple components are connected to different grounding points, creating unwanted hum and buzz.

A ground lift helps break this loop by isolating or rerouting the grounding path, ensuring all components share a common ground. This reduces noise, prevents signal degradation, and improves overall system performance.

More advanced power supplies may also feature a voltage readout for real-time monitoring of AC input and an internal power reservoir to maintain a steady output voltage. This ensures your hi-fi system receives a consistent and stable power supply, compensating for fluctuations in the mains grid.

Hi-Fi Power Supply FAQs

What is a hi-fi power supply?

A hi-fi power supply is a component designed to provide cleaner, more stable power to audio equipment. By reducing noise, like buzzing or hissing, and voltage fluctuations introduced through the mains power, it helps improve sound quality and system performance. Many feature DC filtering, isolated outputs, and ground lift functions to minimise interference.

Do hi-fi power cables make a difference?

Hi-fi power cables can make a difference by rejecting electrical noise and improving power delivery to audio equipment. High-quality cables often feature better shielding, thicker conductors, and superior connectors, which help minimise interference and ensure a more stable current flow.

Why does AC current make noise?

AC current makes noise due to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and harmonic distortion from the mains supply. It can pick up interference from electrical devices, power lines, and radio signals, while poor grounding and voltage fluctuations further contribute to unwanted noise in audio systems.