The GigaWatt PF-1 EVO+ mains power strip comes with its PowerSync cable and provides a comprehensive power conditioning solution. This fourth generation of the PF-1, produced for years with minimal changes, reflects the technical stability of the Polish manufacturer. The pack includes a 3.05 kg filtering power strip and a 1.5-meter PowerSync power cable, delivering a complete solution for the electrical distribution and protection of audio-video systems.
All-metal construction for absolute shielding
The PF-1 EVO+ metal chassis is far more than a simple protective shell. This solid steel structure forms a hermetically sealed shield that protects the internal circuits from electromagnetic and radio-frequency interference. With dimensions of 420 mm in length, 75 mm in height, and 57 mm in depth, the strip offers remarkably dense construction for this product category.
The six GigaWatt G-040 Schuko sockets are entirely manufactured in-house by the company. The brass connectors receive a silver plating directly at the production facility, without intermediate metals such as copper or nickel. This direct approach eliminates any parasitic series resistance and preserves the integrity of the electrical signal. The outlets then undergo cryogenic treatment followed by a demagnetization process, two steps that modify the metal’s crystalline structure to optimize conductivity.
Each outlet features safety shutters compliant with the VDE 0620 standard, ensuring enhanced protection against accidental contact. This characteristic, often overlooked in audiophile products, reflects the attention paid to practical and safety aspects in everyday use.
Star-distribution architecture with massive copper bus bars
The current distribution system is the technological heart of the PF-1 EVO+. GigaWatt has developed a proprietary architecture based on second-generation distribution bars, machined from high-purity cathode copper plates (Cu-ETP). These massive rails, with an approximate cross-section of 30 mm², deliver power directly to each pair of output sockets.
The internal wiring uses exclusively GigaWatt PowerLink OFHC (Oxygen Free High Conductivity) copper conductors with a 4 mm² cross-section. This major evolution compared to previous generations enables unconstrained current flow, thus preserving the dynamics and responsiveness of connected devices. The star topology guarantees equal and stable power distribution regardless of the load applied to each outlet.
Assembly relies on crimped and screwed connections rather than traditional solder joints in high-current paths. This mechanical connection technique preserves the metallurgical characteristics of the conductors and ensures long-term reliability superior to soldered joints, which can present localized resistance points.
Parallel RLC filtering without current limitation
The RLC (Resistance-Inductance-Capacitance) filtering block is the core element of interference suppression. Built around low-inductance metallized polyester capacitors and an IP (Iron Powder) core filter, this circuit eliminates high-frequency disturbances without restricting current flow.
Contrary to conventional approaches, GigaWatt has deliberately avoided the use of traditional fuses or thermal breakers. While useful in theory, these protection components introduce series resistance that limits free current delivery to protected circuits. This restriction invariably translates into compressed dynamics and masked sonic micro-details.
Surge protection is based on a cascading system combining plasma spark-gaps and next-generation UltraMOV varistors. Plasma spark-gaps offer an ultra-fast response to transient voltage spikes, while UltraMOV varistors absorb excess energy over a longer duration. This multi-stage architecture ensures comprehensive protection with an impulse current absorption capacity of up to 13,000 amperes, while preserving the dynamic potential of connected equipment.
PowerSync cable: OFHC conductors and full shielding
The PowerSync cable included in this pack is the entry model of GigaWatt’s new generation of power cords. Its conductors are made from 5N (99.999%) purity OFHC C10100 copper, subjected to an annealing process to achieve a homogeneous structure and optimal conductivity.
The construction includes three conductors with a cross-section of 2 mm² (14 AWG), each composed of 10 strands with a diameter of 0.514 mm. This multi-strand structure offers mechanical flexibility while maintaining excellent electrical conductivity. The earth conductor uses a 7-strand configuration, ensuring effective and safe grounding.
Dielectric insulation in polyethylene (PE) surrounds each conductor, offering excellent insulating properties with a low dielectric constant. A laminated aluminum foil static shield covers 100% of the cable’s surface, creating a hermetic barrier against external electromagnetic and radio-frequency interference. An additional drain wire runs beneath this shield to evacuate parasitic charges.
The outer jacket combines GA 70AT03 insulation material covered with an abrasion-resistant nylon braid. The total diameter of 11.5 mm remains manageable for easy handling while providing substantial mechanical protection. GigaWatt G-010 and G-030 connectors finish the cable, using solderless mechanical connections to preserve signal integrity.
Technical specifications and capabilities
The PF-1 EVO+ accepts a mains voltage of 220–240 V at 50–60 Hz, with a maximum output power of 3680 watts and a continuous maximum current of 16 amperes. These values allow simultaneous powering of six audio-video devices, including substantial power amplifiers.
The impulse current absorption capacity of 13,000 amperes testifies to the robustness of the integrated protection. This figure, particularly high for a strip in this category, enables it to cope with the most severe transients without compromising the integrity of protected circuits.
The 3.05 kg weight of the strip alone reflects the density of the internal components and the build quality. Every element, from the copper rails to the PCBs with wide, silver-soldered traces, contributes to this substantial mass, which also provides beneficial mechanical inertia against vibrations.
The integrated indicator LED signals proper operation and the presence of voltage at the outlets. Positioned near the main IEC C14 power inlet, it offers an immediate visual indication of the strip’s operational status.
