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Reviews

Shakti Stone and On Line
 Electromagnetic Stabilizers


The word Shakti is the Sanskrit word for energy. Shakti Noise Reduction technology absorbs and dissipates Electromagnetic Interference (EMI). Through an energy conversion, inductive coupling process, the "antenna-like" circuits within Shakti attract and then resistively convert EMI to non-interfering heat.

Audio/video components self generate a radiated EMI field that degrades signal transfer functions. Reducing the EMI field improves performance in high definition audio/video systems. Placed near power supplies, DAC chips, capacitors and system wiring, Shakti offers increased resolution and refinement, quieter background, more air and improved spatial detail.

The Shakti Electromagnetic Stabilizer (aka "the Stone") has three internal trap circuits (Microwave, RF and Electric Field) to absorb the broadest spectrum of EMI. It improves resolution for virtually all-major components in high definition audio/video systems, and has also been shown to measurably increase horsepower when placed on automotive CPUs). Music reproduction is clearer, with more liquidity, dynamics and focus. The improved inter-transient silence allows the listener to hear the subtle ambient cues essential for accurate perception of stage depth, width and focused imaging.

High quality video systems will benefit from Shakti devices near power supplies, projection guns and laser disc/DVD players. Reduced color noise and improved convergence alignment are some of the improvements are often seen.

No electrical connection is required because all interactions take place through radiated field mutual coupling. Simply place the Shakti Stone on top of a component (usually over the transformer).

Sound like voodoo? Validation of Shakti’s benefits comes from a variety of objective tests in both the automotive and audio worlds. Traditional EMI tests were conducted at Compatible Labs in Agoura, California, which verified Shakti’s absorption of radiated noise fields. The worldwide use of Shakti in consumer and professional applications such as Abby Road Studio and Pink Floyd's Astoria Studio is further testament to its benefits. Patent # 5,814,761

Shakti Stone measures 6.5" L x 5.25" W x 1.5" H

Shakti On-Lines use a specially engineered circuit adapted from the larger Shakti Stone. The On-Lines provide efficient EMI reduction in situations where limited space is a consideration. In audio systems the On-Lines are typically used on all system cables (interconnects, speaker wire, AC cords and video cables). Placement is near the approximate center and/or connection points. In addition, many users who build or modify their own equipment are placing On-Lines on or near critical internal circuit parts such as DAC chips, capacitors and internal wiring. Self-adhering Velcro circles that are placed on the cable or component to be treated facilitate placement.

Shakti On-Lines measure 3" L x 5/8" W x 3/8" H


Recommended Applications

Amplifiers and Preamplifiers – Some of the biggest improvement are realized when using SHAKTI above large power transformers. On pre and power amps, if you know the location of the power transformer, then use that as the starting point for placement of SHAKTI. You can refine positioning by listening.
Tube amplifiers, in particular, are great places to use Shakti, placing stones on both the power transformers and output transformers.

CD Players and DACs – When treating CD players and DACs, begin with the approximate center of the chassis. Continue to A/B for the optimum placement by moving SHAKTI to different points on the chassis, noting where maximum benefits are obtained. With CD transports, SHAKTI placed directly above or below the location of the spinning CD inside the drawer, will audibly improve resolution.  

Phono systems – Locate SHAKTI near the turntable motor and/or the cartridge. If space allows, place a stone underneath the ‘table in line with the arc of the cartridge across the record. Separate power supplies and line conditioners will function far better if SHAKTI is placed above or below their chassis. 

Loudspeakers - Place SHAKTI on top of or inside cabinets and near the binding posts.

Subwoofers - Bass improvements are audible when used with sub-woofers. Shakti can be used on top or near the internal amplifier or crossover.

Electrostatic and ribbon speakers - You’ll hear clearer sound with SHAKTI units attached to the tops of their frames and near any transformers.

AC Plugs – We discovered this by accident several years ago, and it really works. The idea is to locate SHAKTI (engraved side facing out into the room) against the wall, as close as possible to the AC outlet. I’ve often found it possible to perch the stone on to of an AC cable plugged into the outlet.

Electrical Panels – A recent discovery has been the use of SHAKTI near the main breaker panel. Locate SHAKTI on the inside of the panel door (with the engraved side against the door), securing in place with a makeshift harness, wire or tape. Close the door so the bottom of Shakti is close to breakers.   

Cables - Shakti On-Lines are are easy and effective upgrades when used on cables. They can be located at half length or on the RCA or XLR connectors.

Evaluating Effectiveness: Choose a minimally processed female vocal recording or classical excerpt that has an easily perceived sound stage with good depth and width. After you have listened several times to a brief section, you can center SHAKTI on top of the audio component. Then begin evaluating its effects by A/B comparisons of SHAKTI on and off your audio components. After you have heard the improvement you can optimize performance by experimenting with more specific placement of the stone on the component (See Recommended Applications below).

 Tip: When evaluating a component change, it is sometimes easier to hear the effect by “subtraction” rather than “addition.” By this I mean taking the item under evaluation out of the system and listening for changes, rather than adding it in and looking for differences.

Notes: SHAKTI can be used under or above the host audio device. In some situations additional improvements can result from the use of one SHAKTI unit above and another below the component. Two SHAKTI units on the same horizontal plane, should be placed one inch apart. Be sure, whenever possible to use SHAKTI with the engraved top facing the ceiling. It is not recommended to position SHAKTI on its side, although it will still provide some benefits if space requires that orientation. Keep in mind that the closer you can get SHAKTI to the circuit, the more pronounced the benefits will be. Under the component, even not in contact with the chassis will usually work better than on top because SHAKTI is closer to the circuit.

 

 

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