Description: GigaWatt's PC-4 power line conditioner is a powerful device in an aesthetically, functionally and mechanically well executed chassis. It is one of the best designs I've ever seen except perhaps for the wonderful Accuphase PS-1210 or PS-510V. The PC-4 weights 50 kg and is delivered in an extremely solid case made from scrap wood to be ecological packaging – a green point for GigaWatt! Two people have to take it out of the case. Don't even try to do it on your own. Most of the weight is placed near the front of the device which is made of thick brushed aviation-grade aluminum but the weight comes from two huge isolation transformers. There is a big red LED display acting as a volt meter. During the entire duration of the review it showed a rock-solid 235V, i.e. 5 V more than our standard line voltage. The display sits behind an acrylic plate. There are no push buttons, knobs or anything except for that LED display on the front of the PC-4.
At the back we get what it is all really about - sockets. There are twelve at your disposal - 4 separated outputs with 1500W for sources and digital units, 4 separated outputs for 1500W of analog devices and 4 high-current 3500W outputs without transformers or coils in their circuit. All outlets are Schuko types without ground pin but two silver-plated contact pins manufactured exclusively for GigaWatt. A high-quality Gigawatt LC-2 HC umbilical with a PowerCon 32A plug is standard. The PowerCon is a far superior connector to an IEC and widely used with professional devices. It was developed by the Swiss Neutrik Company and is based on SpeakOn connectors which were developed for speakers. Another pro-arena Powercon HC type socket with silver-plated pins serves as power inlet. It is able to carry a continuous current load of 32 amperes.
The mains switch which also controls the max current is a Carling hydraulic/magnetic breaker capable of passing a continuous current load of 25A. This version of the switch is manufactured in the USA according to Gigawatt's specification and only for them. This advanced costly safety element eliminates the flaws of common circuit breakers and the averse effects of sacrificial fuses with their limitations on power output.