Furman IT Reference 15i Discrete Symmetrical AC Power Conditioner
Quick take
The Furman IT Reference 15i is a rack-mount AC power conditioner designed to reduce AC line noise and improve how power is delivered to sensitive audio and video gear. It combines discrete symmetrical power stages, linear filtering, and power factor technology, plus surge suppression with Extreme Voltage Shutdown. The main caveat is fit and practicality, it is heavy, and it is a premium option aimed at fixed, high-end systems rather than casual desktop use.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Discrete symmetrical power with dual-screen technology targeted at hum and noise in audio/video setups
- Linear filtering technology to reduce differential AC line noise
- Surge suppression with SMP non-sacrificial protection and Extreme Voltage Shutdown
- 15-Amp capacity with 11 outlets across dedicated filtered/power-factor sections
- Front master power switch can turn multiple connected components on and off together
Cons
- Premium-priced, so it may be hard to justify for budget systems or casual use
- Very heavy for the class (about 60 pounds), not ideal if you move gear often
- Only 4 review snippets are available, so buyer-feedback patterns are limited
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is limited, with only a small number of reviews available. That said, the feedback that does exist highlights several practical themes that matter for power conditioners. Owners tend to describe the unit as sturdy and physically substantial, and they specifically value its ability to handle multiple roles at once: acting as surge protection, providing conditioning via filtering, and including power-factor features for power-starved amplifiers. The front-panel master switch is also called out as a convenience for managing power to all connected components in one step. Overall, buyer commentary supports the idea that the IT Reference 15i is most appealing when you want a single, integrated unit for a rack-style audio or home-theater setup.
Key features that explain the design
Discrete symmetrical power and dual-screen noise cancellation
The IT Reference 15i uses discrete symmetrical power with dual-screen technology, aimed at reducing hum-inducing noise that can affect both audio and video components. If your system has visible noise issues, or you want to minimize noise transmission across power delivery, that focus is central to the product’s positioning.
Linear filtering for differential line noise
Linear filtering is included to reduce differential AC line noise. For high-resolution audio and other sensitive electronics, this is one of the most important “why a conditioner” features, because it targets the kind of noise that can ride along with the AC waveform.
Power factor technology and peak charge surplus current
Power factor technology is designed to provide peak charge surplus current, with the unit specified for more than 55 Amps peak charge surplus current. This can be especially relevant when you pair the conditioner with power-hungry or power-starved amplification components that benefit from more immediate current capability during demand spikes.
Surge suppression with extreme voltage shutdown
For protection, the IT Reference 15i includes SMP non-sacrificial surge suppression paired with Extreme Voltage Shutdown. In practical terms, this is about adding a safeguard layer between the wall and your connected equipment, with an extreme-voltage response feature intended to help protect gear when conditions go beyond normal operating ranges.
Outlets and rack practicality
This model is built for rack setups and includes 11 total outlets across specialized groupings. The description specifies 2 balanced power outlets, 4 power-factor technology outlets, 4 linear-filtered outlets, and 1 front-panel linear-filtered outlet for easier access. It also includes telco in/out and 3 pairs of universal coax connectors, which can be useful for systems that want power conditioning plus noise filtering for other signal paths.
Capacity is rated for 15 amps, with 120V AC minimum input voltage and a 140V AC maximum input voltage specification. If you are planning to run multiple power-hungry components, staying mindful of the amperage budget for your whole system matters.
Pros and cons, summarized for buying decisions
Who this is best for
- Owners building or upgrading a fixed rack-style audio or home theater system
- Buyers who specifically want discrete symmetrical power, linear filtering, and power factor features in one unit
- People who want surge protection integrated into a conditioner, not just a basic power strip
- Users who value front-panel control for powering multiple components together
Who should skip it
- Shoppers looking for a lightweight, portable conditioner for desks or frequent moves
- Budget-focused buyers who may not need premium filtering and symmetrical power stages
- Anyone building a very simple setup with no sensitive electronics or no noise-related concerns
Price and availability
Premium line conditioners like the Furman IT Reference 15i are usually justified when you have higher-end components and you want more than basic surge protection. Since pricing and stock can change, check the current listing for the most up-to-date availability and cost.
Alternatives to consider (by priority, not brand names)
- If your main goal is basic surge protection and cleaner power for a small number of components, look for conditioners with simpler outlet grouping and adequate filtering at a lower price point.
- If you are focused on rack control and structured output, prioritize models that provide multiple independently treated outlet banks and a convenient master power switch.
- If power delivery under load is your primary concern, focus on units with power-factor or peak-current-focused features and ensure the overall amperage rating fits your components.
- If you need signal-path noise filtering too, prioritize models that include telco and coax connection options, not just AC outlet protection.
FAQ
How many outlets does the Furman IT Reference 15i have?
It has 11 outlets total, including specialized groupings: 2 balanced power, 4 power-factor technology, 4 linear-filtered, and 1 front-panel linear-filtered outlet.
Is the Furman IT Reference 15i a surge protector or a power conditioner?
It is both. It includes SMP non-sacrificial surge suppression with Extreme Voltage Shutdown, and it also provides power conditioning using discrete symmetrical power, linear filtering, and power factor technology.
What makes discrete symmetrical power different?
Discrete symmetrical power is designed to address hum-inducing noise and improve how power is delivered to sensitive audio and video components, with dual-screen technology aimed at reducing that noise.
What power capacity should I plan for?
The unit is rated for 15 amps, and its input voltage range is specified from 120V AC minimum to 140V AC maximum.
Is it suitable for non-rack setups?
It is rack-mountable and built for fixed installations. It is also very heavy (about 60 pounds), so it is typically best when your system stays in place.
Is the Furman IT Reference 15i worth it?
It makes the most sense if you have higher-end audio or video equipment and you want a conditioner that combines multiple protection and filtering approaches. If you only need basic surge protection, a simpler, lower-cost option may be a better fit.
Specifications
| Product Title | Furman IT Reference 15i Discrete Symmetrical AC Power Conditioner |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Power Accessories > Line Conditioners |
| Brand | Furman |
| Manufacturer | Furman |
| Model Number | IT-Reference 15 i |
| Item Weight | 60 Pounds |
| Compatible Devices | Monitor |
| Output Wattage | 1500 Watts |
| Form Factor | Rack Mountable |
| Wattage | 8.5 watts |
| Cooling Method | Air |
| Current Rating | 15 Amps |
| Maximum Input Voltage | 140 Volts (AC) |
| Minimum Input Voltage | 120 Volts (AC) |
| Item Dimensions | 15.63 x 17 x 4 inches |
| UPC | 054061027858 654061027850 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00654061027850 |
| Mfr Part Number | IT-Reference 15 i |
| Unit Count | 1.00 Count |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 15.63 x 17 x 4 inches |
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