Using an amp on power converter.... Any experience?

[Kmeister]

Hi all

I am considering purchasing an inexpensive amp for my Taylor 414, but before I get too far into the shopping, i was hoping to get some advice.

My husband and I just got stationed in the UK where they use 240V power, but I will be going back to the states in a few years where we have 120V power. Rather than buying a UK power spec amp, I was curious if I could use a power transformer to down convert the power from something like the Fishman Loudbox Mini (only rated for 120V).

Has anyone ever used a power transformer on an amp? Do the modulation fluctuations create problems with the sound output?  I am surprised that I can find amps that are made in either UK or US power spec (sometimes the same model with just a different power transformer) but none appear to be dual voltage.

Thanks in advance
Kristen

[Craig]

As far as I know most American touring bands use transformers so I can't imagine it being a problem, the brand Furman springs to mind but they might be a bit high end.

I would have thought that with modern power supplies the amps would have a wide input voltage capability and only the power cable would be different but I'd ask Fishman if they can confirm that.

Craig

[CodeBlueEMT]

I was stationed in Madrid, Spain for a few years in the 80's. I lived off base, so we needed transformers to run box fans, stereos, TV's...important stuff. Bad stuff happened when we didn't. Do you need a transformer for anything other than the amp? Might be cheaper to buy the UK version of the Fishman if you're gonna be overseas for a few years. Sell it before you DEROS.    

[Craig]

I checked my (uk) Fishman loudbox last night and it just says 230V next to the power socket, that doesn't mean that it won't work quite happily on 110v if you bought a uk version and took it back home later.

Craig

[Kmeister]

So I have a power transformer, they loan them out on base, so if it works, great. But the skeptic in me wonders if the power fluctuations would create static in the sound.

[Craig]

Don't worry the power here is good, we keep the hamsters in the wheels  pretty hungry :-)

Craig

[asguitar1]

I moved from the United States to Bolivia 7 years ago and brought my Roland AC 60 and Vox amplifiers with me.  Bolivia has a great deal of power fluctuations but I have never had any problems using a power transformer.