[. . . ] McIntosh MPC1500 Operational Features & Advantages The MPC1500 is an AC Isolation transformer, AC switching hub with 12 rear panel AC outlets that have programmable Power Control options. [. . . ] 3-Active circuit components clamp incoming voltage spikes at +2 volts over the average AC line voltage. The vast majority of `Power Conditioners' use MOV, Metal Oxide Varistors to absorb and limit line voltage spikes. Due to the small size and fragile nature of even the largest MOVs these must be designed to limit at 100s of volts above AC line level. A few repeated spikes at the MOVs absorption level will result in MOV overheating and failure. This is often promoted as the `Power Conditioner' sacrificing itself to protect connected components. 4-1000 repeats of 6000/3000 volt spikes will not cause connected component or MPC1500 damage. Voltage spikes are reflected BACK into the AC line input side of the MPC1500 transformer. The MPC1500 increases the input voltage by 3 volts to make up for the insertion loss of the (45 lb. ) transformer. [. . . ] Due to the extremely low output impedance of the MPC1500 some power amps will actually show a slight increase in power when used with the MPC1500. [. . . ]