Musical Fidelity Revives Iconic X-Series with New X-Power Conditioner

Positioned as both a practical system safeguard and a nod to the company’s late-1990s X-Series heritage, the X-Power combines surge and overvoltage protection, EMI/RFI filtering and DC blocking in a single inlet, single outlet design rated at 10A. In today’s increasingly crowded power-conditioning market, Musical Fidelity is making the case that integrating all three functions at this level remains relatively uncommon.

The timing is hardly accidental. Main quality has become a growing talking point among hi-fi enthusiasts, particularly as switch-mode power supplies, networking hardware and other household electronics contribute additional electrical noise to domestic circuits. Whether every system will benefit to the same degree is always system-dependent, but addressing noise, DC offset and surge risk remains a sensible baseline consideration for sensitive audio equipment.

At its core, the X-Power is structured around three distinct stages. A multi-stage surge and overvoltage protection circuit sits at both the entry and final output stages, designed to divert excess voltage away from connected components during grid fluctuations or transient spikes. Musical Fidelity describes the approach as a “two-stage” protection design intended to provide redundancy rather than relying on a single protective element.

The second block is a bespoke EMI/RFI filter. According to the company, the network employs dual common-mode chokes with standard- and differential-mode capacitors, followed by a further overvoltage protection stage. Claimed attenuation figures exceed 60dB at 100kHz and rise to more than 80dB by 1MHz — figures that, if achieved in real-world installations, would represent substantial suppression of high-frequency noise riding on the AC line.

The third element is a DC blocker — arguably the most interesting inclusion. Even relatively small DC offsets on the mains supply can saturate transformer cores, leading to mechanical hum and reduced efficiency. The X-Power uses a network of diodes and electrolytic capacitors to prevent DC components from reaching connected equipment while allowing AC to pass unimpeded.

While DC blocking circuits are not universal within integrated amplifiers or preamplifiers, their inclusion here broadens the unit’s appeal for systems prone to transformer buzz.

Physically, the X-Power retains the classic X-profile aesthetic, with a one-piece aluminium extrusion forming the main chassis. Beyond its visual throwback appeal, the extruded enclosure is intended to provide improved shielding against electromagnetic interference. A brushed aluminium faceplate completes the look, while the rear panel houses an IEC C14 inlet and region-specific output sockets, including Schuko, US, UK and Australian variants.

Rated at 10A, the X-Power is capable of handling up to 2300W in 230V regions (or 1100W in 110V territories). Dimensions measure 108 x 105 x 274mm, with a net weight of 2.29kg — compact enough to sit unobtrusively within rack systems or alongside existing X-Series components.

Musical Fidelity suggests it can power multiple low-consumption source components when used with a high-quality unfiltered distribution strip. However, it advises against mixing analogue and digital devices on the same filtered line. The company also indicates the unit is suitable for integrated and power amplifiers, recommending one amplifier per X-Power to maintain optimal performance headroom.

Power conditioning remains one of hi-fi’s more debated categories, often dividing opinion between measurable engineering and perceived sonic benefit. With the X-Power, Musical Fidelity appears to be aiming for the middle ground: practical protection, measurable filtering performance and a welcome revival of a design language many long-time enthusiasts will recognise instantly.

With global pricing yet to surface, attention now turns to availability. Australian pricing is expected to be in the A$1,000 range, with stock availability to be confirmed shortly.

For more information visit Musical Fidelity