GigaWatt PC-4 EVO+ 21
GigaWatt PC-4 EVO+ 21: high-end power conditioner
With twelve outlets divided across three independent sections, the PC-4 EVO+ 21 takes the formula of the previous model and refines it further. This 2021 version incorporates an eight-stage filtering architecture, a built-in DC blocker, and components specifically developed by Miflex according to the Polish manufacturer’s specifications. The non-magnetic austenitic steel chassis rests on ball-bearing feet, a mechanical isolation system that limits contact points with the hi-fi cabinet.
Parallel filtering without an isolation transformer
GigaWatt has opted for multi-stage passive filtering rather than an isolation transformer. The three filtering branches each supply four outlets, and each section is optimized for a type of load: digital devices, analog sources, or high-current-demand equipment such as power amplifiers.
The RLC filters rely on high-permeability Hi-Flux cores and increased-capacity capacitors. The absence of traditional fuses (thermal or melting) avoids any restriction of current flow. Surge protection is based on plasma spark gaps and UltraMOV varistors, while a bipolar hydraulic-magnetic circuit breaker from Carling Technologies provides overload protection.
Current distribution and internal wiring
The distribution system uses a two-stage star topology. Massive OFHCC 10100 oxygen-free copper rails (99.997% purity) with a 45 mm² cross-section ensure uniform distribution to each filtering branch. The second stage directly supplies each pair of outlets via 4 mm² silver-plated OFHC copper wiring insulated with Teflon, with bolted connections.
According to GigaWatt, the double-layer printed circuit boards contain around fifteen times more copper than standard PCBs, with very wide silver-plated copper traces of a combined thickness of 550 micrometers. Silver is used in the solder joints.
Current capacity and impulse response
The dual buffer circuit equipped with Audio Grade compensation batteries enables an instantaneous pulse capacity of 100 A, with surge absorption of 22,000 A. This current reserve compensates for the sudden power demands of amplifiers, including large power blocks. The 25 A bipolar relay offers a breaking capacity of 6500 VA.
The integrated DC Blocker eliminates the DC component sometimes present on the electrical grid, which can cause transformer core saturation (with the characteristic hum that results) and degrade the power supply to connected devices.
Construction and finish
The austenitic stainless steel chassis is damped by a bitumen-polymer composite mat. The aerospace-grade aluminum front panel, precision-milled then brushed and anodized, is available in black or silver.
The twelve proprietary G-040 Schuko outlets feature silver-plated brass contacts with an enlarged contact surface. The plating process uses no intermediate metals (copper or nickel), which reduces series resistance. The outlets undergo cryogenic treatment and demagnetization.
The input connector is a professional 32 A C19 PowerCon socket with rhodium-plated contacts. A grounding terminal is present on the rear.
The Rolling-Ball Isolation feet, made of two solid aluminum parts with interposed balls, reduce the transmission of mechanical vibrations to the internal circuits.
Indicators and mains monitoring
The front LED voltmeter displays the input voltage with accuracy resistant to errors caused by higher harmonics. The display can be turned off and is available in nine colors (white by default). GigaWatt states that this measurement circuit does not generate interference likely to alter the quality of the filtered current.
A red LED on the rear indicates reversed polarity or a grounding fault: a simple but useful indicator for quickly diagnosing a wiring problem.
Limitations to consider
The PC-4 EVO+ 21 weighs 16 kg and measures 440 × 400 × 170 mm. Its size and weight require a cabinet capable of supporting it and deep enough to accommodate it. The maximum continuous load is 3680 W (16 A at 230 V), which is sufficient for most systems, but remains a parameter to check if several high-power amplifiers are used simultaneously.
The standard-supplied PowerSync ULTRA power cable uses a PowerCon connector on the conditioner side: conventional power cables are not compatible. GigaWatt offers optional cables (LS-1 EVO+, LS-2 EVO) for those who want to go further in optimizing the electrical path.
Technical specifications
Distribution and outputs
- 12 output sockets divided into 3 independent sections
- Silver-plated brass contacts with large contact surface
- Available socket types: EU (Schuko)
- Professional 32 A PowerCon input connector
- C19 socket with rhodium-plated contacts
- Grounding terminal included
Filtering and protection
- 8-stage filtering architecture with RLC blocks
- High-permeability Hi-Flux filter cores
- GigaWatt Audio Grade capacitors with increased capacitance
- Dual Audio Grade buffer circuit
- Integrated direct current blocker (DC Blocker)
- Eliminates direct current components from the mains
- 25 A bipolar power relay
- Breaking capacity: 6500 VA
- Surge current absorbed: 22000 A
- Pulse capacity: up to 100 A instantaneous
Conductors and wiring
- Silver-plated OFC copper distribution rails
- Cross-section: 45 mm²
- Purity: 99.997%
- Silver-plated OFHC copper internal wiring
- Cross-section: 4 mm²
- Teflon insulation
Construction and chassis
- Ultra-rigid non-magnetic austenitic steel chassis
- Bitumen-polymer vibration absorber
- Rolling-Ball Isolation anti-vibration feet (ball bearing)
Display and indicators
- Switchable LED voltmeter
- Default color: white
- 9 colors available
- Red LED polarity indicator
- Indicates phase reversal or a ground fault
Electrical data
- Supply voltage: 220–240 VAC 50 / 60 Hz or 110–120 VAC 50 / 60 Hz
- Maximum load: 3680 W
- Maximum continuous current: 16 A
Dimensions and weight
- Dimensions (W × D × H): 440 × 400 × 170 mm
- Gross weight: 16 kg
Standard equipment
- PowerSync ULTRA power cable
- Rolling-Ball Isolation system
- Switchable voltage display
Available options
- LS-1EVO+ or LS-2EVO power cables
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the PC-4 EVO+ 21 power power amplifiers without restricting their dynamics?
The dual buffer circuit and the cross-section of the distribution rails (45 mm²) are sized to deliver significant current demands without compression. The stated pulse capacities (100 A instantaneous) exceed what most household electrical lines can provide. User feedback on demanding amplifiers (Class A, large mono blocks) generally confirms the absence of any perceptible limitation.
What is the difference compared with the PC-3 SE EVO+?
The PC-4 EVO+ 21 doubles the number of outlets (12 versus 6), uses thicker printed circuit boards, larger-section distribution rails (45 mm² versus 30 mm²), a bipolar hydraulic-magnetic circuit breaker, an austenitic steel chassis, and Rolling-Ball feet. The extra cost is mainly justified for systems with many devices or very power-hungry amplifiers.
Is the DC Blocker always necessary?
The DC component on the mains varies depending on installations and the time of day. It is often imperceptible, but can cause transformer hum on certain devices. According to GigaWatt, the integrated DC Blocker operates continuously without audible penalty. If your system shows no symptoms of DC pollution, its effect will be less noticeable.
Can any power cable be used with this conditioner?
No. The input uses a C19/PowerCon 32 A connector. Only cables fitted with this connector are compatible. GigaWatt supplies the PowerSync ULTRA as standard and offers higher-end models (LS-1 EVO+, LS-2 EVO) as options.
Does the voltmeter consume energy or generate interference?
GigaWatt states that the measurement circuit is designed not to interfere with the filtered current. The LED display can be turned off if you prefer an unlit front panel or if you suspect even the slightest influence on your system.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.