Frequently Asked Questions
Is SHAKTI a mechanical resonance control device?
No. SHAKTI’s effects are taking place at the electromagnetic level. Through inductive coupling, it acts as an absorption device for parasitic, non-musical waveforms that all active components radiate. These fields can inter modulate with music information, causing a noisier, grainier background. Reduce these interferences, called Electromagnetic Interference (EMI), and the result is better resolution of music reproduced through audio systems.
How can SHAKTI differentiate between the music signal, which should be left untampered, and the noise generating fields?
SHAKTI’s tuned circuits are designed to only have coupling effects with non-audio MHz and GHz frequencies and some lower, longer wavelength fields around transformers. Thus, there is no chance of SHAKTI imposing its own signature on the music. Instead, SHAKTI treated components achieve their maximum inherent potential to act as accurate, neutral devices. This gives the end user a greater return of performance and value for his investment in them.
We only hear at best up to 20,000 cycles, so why would absorption of these ultra – high frequencies benefit the sound?
Although they often originate at frequencies far above the audio spectrum, when viewed on a very high-resolution waveform monitor, these parasitic oscillations do have reflections that appear as bursts of noise on a sine wave in the audible region. The same holds true for our high definition audio systems. The better the system, the more obvious the benefits when these non-musical artifacts are reduced.
Since SHAKTI operates with no power source or connection to the signal path, how can it function?
SHAKTI’s design is based on scientific principles that follow understood laws relating to the mutual coupling effects of electromagnetic fields. Commonly termed inductive coupling, an example of this is seen in all transformer circuitry where there is a primary and secondary coil interaction. The secondary coil, like SHAKTI, has no direct connection to the signal path and yet when properly tuned and loaded it can sink or absorb energy directly from the active primary coil even though they are not physically in contact. If you have ever come near, though not touching, an AM antenna and heard the signal gain or reduce in strength, the same process is occurring, you are either coupling with the field in an additive or subtractive manner. Three groups of “antennas”, each covering a separate frequency range, are incorporated in SHAKTI. One circuit section is specifically for Microwave fields, another for RFI and a third for lower wavelength external fields around power supplies. Each of these sections has a resistive element to complete the absorption and dissipation process that reduces EMI.
Do I need one SHAKTI per component? Would two per component do more?
That depends on the system and its associated equipment. Experimentation can easily tell you where SHAKTI appears to impart the most benefit. From dealer and customer responses the consensus is that every type of digital component and all amplifiers derive significant improvements. Power line conditioners universally operate more effectively when used with SHAKTI. Interestingly, some loudspeaker systems have been reported to benefit when units are placed on them. The use of two per component works in many situations, particularly for digital interface anti-jitter boxes. Placement of one above and one below works best.
Should SHAKTI always be placed above the transformer?
The transformer or power supply area of a component is a good starting point, but it may not always be the optimum location for placement. It’s very easy, as compared to having to disconnect cables etc., to simply move SHAKTI to different parts of the chassis and listen for changes in performance.
How long will SHAKTI last, is there anything to wear out inside?
With proper handling SHAKTI will last indefinitely. No matter what changes you make in your audio system, be assured that SHAKTI noise reduction devices can be utilized on future components with no diminution in quality. They are a valuable, lifetime investment in good sound, assisting you in the pursuit of accuracy and beauty in music reproduction.
