September 2019


Best Of 2019 Blue Note Equipment Awards

Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium Portable Power Station
Price: $600
Click here to read the complete review.

  I've used many passive power conditioners over the years, and these devices have always made a positive difference in the sound quality of my system. But, the problem with those power conditioners is that they are still dealing with the AC power that comes from the wall outlet, and for example, no matter how good my system sounded using these conditioners (and especially when not using anything at all) the sound of my system was always noticeably better in the nighttime. There are many reasons for this, but a major reason is that this is when use by others is at its lowest.

I don't know what led me to begin searching outside the audiophile world for a battery power supply, but eventually I came across the website of a company called Goal Zero. This USA company's products are made with the camper in mind. On their website they say that their products are perfect for powering cameras, small refrigerators, laptop computers, and outdoor lighting. I thought, if they are touting their "Power Stations" for these items, why not a high-end stereo system? Goal Zero has all sorts of equipment for outdoor types who wish to use electrical devices while they are out-of-doors. They even sell solar panels to recharge their power stations.

My weeks spent with the Yeti 400 in my system proved that there were no sonic differences between the two units when the power without the power amplifier as part of the equation. I hope I can one day also review Goal Zero's Yeti 3000. There are other companies that manufacture these battery power supplies, and if Goal Zero doesn't respond, perhaps I will contact one of them. But, if I get a Yeti 3000 in my system, I will go into further detail about Goal Zero and the specifications of both battery-operated power supplies. Until then, I'm going to listen to some music. It's all about the music. 

Click here to read the complete review.

Previous Annual Blue Note Awards

Product of the Year Awards 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, and 2001.