Oehlbach PowerStation 1009 – New Flagship for Power Filtering and Protection

Oehlbach has expanded its range of solutions for high-end audio and video systems with the introduction of the PowerStation 1009 power conditioner. The new model sits at the top of the company’s lineup and is intended for stereo systems and home cinemas that are sensitive to the quality of their power supply. The unit can accommodate up to eight components and combines noise filtering with multi-level equipment protection.

According to the manufacturer, the performance of an audio system may depend not only on the characteristics of its amplifiers, sources and loudspeakers, but also on the condition of the domestic power grid. Computers, routers, switch-mode power supplies and various household appliances can generate high-frequency interference. In addition, a DC component may sometimes be present in the mains supply, causing transformers to hum and sensitive electronic equipment to operate less consistently.

At the heart of the Oehlbach PowerStation 1009 is a 600-watt toroidal transformer. It is housed in a shielded enclosure and encapsulated in resin, which is intended to reduce mechanical vibrations and the effects of external interference. The transformer provides galvanic isolation for some of the connected equipment from the mains supply and creates more stable operating conditions for the components.

The design also incorporates a DC blocker intended to suppress the direct-current component of the mains voltage. An additional common-mode noise filter helps reduce high-frequency interference and minimise the likelihood of audible hum. As a result, the PowerStation 1009 is positioned as a more comprehensive solution than a conventional mains filter or power distribution unit.

The eight sockets on the rear panel are divided into three groups. Four Digital Filter outputs are intended for digital sources, including streamers, network players, CD transports and digital-to-analogue converters. Two additional Digital Ultra Filter sockets are designed for components requiring more intensive filtering. The remaining two outputs bypass the filtering circuitry and can be used for equipment with high power demands.

A separate gold-plated grounding terminal is provided for connecting a turntable. It allows users to establish a common grounding point and may help reduce hum in systems combining analogue and digital sources, amplifiers and video components.

The Oehlbach PowerStation 1009 incorporates a range of protective mechanisms. A soft-start system limits inrush current, while the internal electronics monitor overload, overheating and potentially dangerous overvoltage conditions. Four LED indicators on the front panel provide information about temperature, overload, overvoltage and the correct phase orientation of the mains connection.

The substantial enclosure is made entirely of metal and features a brushed aluminium front panel. The unit weighs 14.9 kg. Its contacts are plated with 24-carat gold, while the internal wiring uses 3.3 mm² high-purity oxygen-free copper conductors. The Oehlbach PowerStation 1009 is already available in Europe at a recommended retail price of €1,999.