Furman IT-Reference 20i 12-Outlet Discrete Symmetrical AC Power Source
Quick take
The Furman IT-Reference 20i is a rack-mount AC power conditioner designed to reduce differential and common-mode line noise and help break up hum and ground-loop issues through discrete symmetrical power. It targets serious home theater and audio setups, especially where amplifiers, preamps, processors, and video components benefit from cleaner power.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Discrete symmetrical power design intended to reduce hum and noise coupling between connected components.
- Eight symmetrical balanced outlets plus four outlets tied to power-factor corrected amplifier circuitry.
- Linear filtering technology with strong stated attenuation for differential and common-mode noise.
- Comprehensive, non-sacrificial AC surge protection.
- Includes rack ears, built in a stainless-steel enclosure.
Cons
- Hefty and space-taking at about 81 to 90 lb, with a 3U rack height (as listed), so it is not ideal for light-duty or casual setups.
- High-end pricing may be hard to justify if your system is already powered from a quiet circuit or you do not hear hum/noise today.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is limited, but it points to two clear themes. First, several buyers report audible improvements after installing the unit, especially cleaner sound and tighter bass, and some mention reduced noise or ground-loop hum. Second, performance benefits do not come without practical tradeoffs, as at least one verified buyer describes breaker trips when powering multiple high-power amplifiers and notes that the setup does not meet their expectations for sequential amp power-up. Overall, reviews suggest the IT-Reference 20i is most compelling for systems where AC noise is already an issue, but buyers should be cautious about how it will interact with their breaker capacity and amplifier power-up routine.
How the IT-Reference 20i is built to clean up your power
This unit is designed for more than basic surge protection. It focuses on noise reduction and isolation so connected components see a cleaner, more stable AC environment.
Discrete symmetrical power and isolation between outlets
The IT-Reference 20i uses a discrete symmetrical power approach with isolation between filtered high-current outlets and symmetrical power outlet banks. The goal is to reduce hum bars, ground-loop related noise, and power-supply “backwash” between interconnected equipment.
Dedicated outlets for power factor corrected amplification
Instead of treating every outlet the same, it includes both symmetrical balanced outlets and a set of outlets associated with power-factor corrected amplifier circuitry. The unit is specified for a high current reserve, aimed at meeting demanding peak current needs that power-starved amplifiers can struggle with.
Linear filtering aimed at differential and common-mode noise
The unit uses linear filtering technology intended to reduce two types of line noise: differential (transverse) mode noise and common-mode noise, with stated attenuation curves extending from low frequencies into the higher ranges used by video and mixed-signal components.
Key specifications that matter for real-world use
- Rack-mount format: Designed for a 3U rack footprint (stated dimensions align to a standard rack-height design).
- Capacity: 20A input capacity and outlet support designed for up to 20A RMS combined maximum load (continuous), with reserve/peak charge capacity specified as over 80A peak charge.
- Outlets: 12 total outlets, with 8 symmetrical balanced outlets and 4 outlets tied to power-factor corrected amplifier circuit functionality.
- Surge protection: Non-sacrificial, series multi-stage protection with “zero ground contamination” language.
- Dimensions and weight: Stainless-steel enclosure, listed around 81 lb (another listing shows about 89.8 lb), so plan for a heavy unit.
- AC voltage: 120V input.
Pros and cons for different kinds of buyers
Best for
- Home theater and audio buyers using a multi-component chain (processor, preamp, amps, video gear) where hum, noise, or “dirty power” has been a concern.
- Systems with demanding amplification that may benefit from outlet separation and power-factor corrected circuitry.
- Rack-based setups where you have space and can handle a very heavy, permanent rack component.
Who should think twice
- 20A circuit users with multiple high-power amplifiers who may push their breaker during turn-on.
- Buyers who mainly want basic surge protection, since this is a specialized power-conditioning approach rather than a simple power strip upgrade.
Buying guide: deciding if it’s worth it
With premium AC power conditioners, the “value” question usually comes down to whether you actually have a noise or hum problem, and whether your electrical setup can support the unit and the gear it feeds.
Check your breaker situation before you plug in
If your system includes multiple high-draw amplifiers, consider how they power up and how your circuit handles inrush current. The most important review signal here is that breaker trips can happen in certain setups, which may force you to leave equipment powered or rethink your power-up workflow.
Match your outlet needs to your gear
The split between symmetrical balanced outlets and power-factor corrected amplifier circuit outlets is a meaningful design choice. If most of your gear is sensitive line-level electronics, you may benefit from how the unit isolates and filters. If you only have a few low-power components, you might not realize the full advantage of the approach.
Consider physical and installation fit
At roughly 3U rack height and near 80 to 90 lb, this is not a “move it around” device. If your rack is tightly packed, or you are not sure you will keep this system configuration long term, the cost and weight can be a bigger factor.
Where it sits versus simpler options
Without naming specific brands, you can compare by feature and use case. Entry-level surge-only power strips and many basic line conditioners can help with protection, but they typically do not provide the same level of outlet isolation, noise attenuation depth, and high-current reserve approach intended for serious audio/video systems. If you are chasing incremental improvements on already-clean power, a simpler conditioner might be sufficient. If you suspect hum, ground-loop noise, or power-related performance issues, the IT-Reference 20i is built for that higher-demand scenario.
Verdict
The Furman IT-Reference 20i is a high-end rack power conditioner for buyers who want discrete symmetrical power, strong noise filtering, and serious surge protection for complex audio and home theater systems. It appears especially suited to setups where hum or dirty power is affecting performance.
FAQ
Is the Furman IT-Reference 20i a surge protector or a true line conditioner?
It is both. The unit includes comprehensive, non-sacrificial AC surge protection and also uses linear filtering and discrete symmetrical power techniques intended to reduce differential and common-mode line noise.
How many outlets does it have, and are they all the same?
It has 12 outlets total. The design includes 8 symmetrical balanced outlets and 4 outlets associated with power-factor corrected amplifier circuit functionality.
Will it work on a 20A circuit?
The unit is specified for a 20A input capacity, but real-world behavior can depend on your system’s inrush current when multiple high-power amplifiers turn on. Some buyers report breaker trips in certain amplifier setups.
Does it provide sequential power-up for amplifiers?
Sequential amplifier power-up is not a prominently described feature. If your system requires strict sequential turn-on, it is important to verify compatibility with your power-up requirements.
Is it worth buying if my system already sounds clean?
If you do not hear hum or line noise today and you have a stable electrical environment, a premium conditioner may be less noticeable. This product is most justified when noise and hum reduction are part of your problem.
What is the physical install requirement?
It is a heavy rack-mount unit (about 3U height as listed) with a stainless-steel enclosure, so you should plan for weight, space, and permanent placement in your rack.
Specifications
| Product Title | Furman IT-Reference 20i 12-Outlet Discrete Symmetrical AC Power Source |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Power Accessories > Line Conditioners |
| Brand | Furman |
| Manufacturer | Furman |
| Model Number | IT-Reference 20 i |
| Color | black |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 89.8 Pounds |
| Connector Type Used on Cable | Barrel Connector, 3 Pin XLR |
| Input Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Amperage | 80 Amps |
| Form Factor | Rack-Mount |
| Maximum Power | 9600 Watts |
| Output Current | 80 Amps |
| Item Dimensions | 15.63 x 17 x 5.75 inches |
| Enclosure Material | Stainless Steel |
| Specification Met | C-ETL |
| UPC | 654061027867 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00654061027867 |
| Mfr Part Number | IT-Reference 20 i |
| Unit Count | 1.00 Count |
| Warranty Description | 2-Year Warranty |
| Connector Type | Barrel Connector, 3 Pin XLR |
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