This article will discuss the best PSU/Power Supply Units for Music Production and Audio Engineering in 2023.
PSUs, or Power Supply Units, are electronic devices that convert the AC (alternating current) power from the wall outlet into DC (direct current) power used to power various electronic devices. In music production, PSUs are needed to power various equipment such as audio interfaces, mixers, synthesizers, and other studio equipment.
Having a reliable PSU is crucial for music production because it ensures stable and clean power is supplied to the equipment. That is important because fluctuations or inconsistencies in power can cause noise, distortion, or even damage to the equipment. Additionally, using high-quality PSUs can result in better sound quality as they can reduce noise and interference in the electrical signal.
There are different PSU types, such as linear and switching power supplies. Linear power supplies are more stable and cleaner but are less efficient than switching power supplies. Switching power supplies are more efficient but can introduce noise and interference into the electrical signal.
Overall, having a reliable and high-quality PSU is essential for music production to ensure that the equipment is powered properly and produces the best possible sound quality. When buying a PSU for music production, several parameters must be considered to ensure that the PSU meets the requirements of the studio equipment and provides stable and clean power. Here are some key parameters to look for:
- Voltage and Current
Ensure that the PSU provides the correct voltage and current required by the equipment. This information is typically listed on the equipment’s power supply or manual. - Power Rating
The power rating of the PSU should be sufficient to power all the connected equipment. Choosing a PSU with a power rating higher than the equipment’s total power consumption is recommended to allow for headroom. - Noise and Interference
Look for a PSU with low noise and interference levels, as these can affect the audio quality of the equipment. Linear power supplies are generally better at reducing noise and interference. - Regulation
The PSU should have good regulation, which means it can maintain a stable output voltage even when the input voltage fluctuates. That is important to prevent any voltage drops or spikes that can damage the equipment. - Efficiency
An efficient PSU can minimize energy consumption and heat generation, positively impacting the equipment’s lifespan. Excessive heat can cause components to deteriorate and fail over time. Choosing a high-efficiency PSU can save you money on your energy bills and prolong your equipment’s lifespan. - Size and Form Factor
Choosing a PSU with the correct size and form factor is crucial to ensure that it fits in the available space and matches the input connector of the equipment. This will help avoid compatibility issues or physical constraints in the setup.
Calculating Power Usage
When choosing a PSU for music production, it is important to calculate the power usage of the studio equipment. To do this, you must determine the power consumption of each piece of equipment by checking the specifications for its power consumption in watts.
This information can usually be found on the back of the equipment, in the user manual, or on the manufacturer’s website. Once you have determined the power consumption of each piece of equipment, add them together to get the total power consumption. Adding a 10-20% buffer to the total power consumption is recommended to allow for headroom and ensure that the PSU can handle the load.
For example, let’s say you have an audio interface that consumes 10 watts, a mixer that consumes 15 watts, and a synthesizer that consumes 20 watts. The total power consumption of the equipment is 45 watts. Adding a buffer of 10%, the recommended PSU wattage would be 50 watts.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that certain devices may consume more power when they are turned on or when they are operating at their maximum capacity. Therefore, it is advisable to opt for a power supply unit (PSU) that can accommodate these surges in power without any adverse effects.
By calculating the power usage of your studio equipment, you can choose a PSU that provides enough power to meet your needs and ensure stable and reliable operation. Now that we have all basics covered let’s get to the main topic of discussion.
Top 10 PSU/Power Supply For Music Production 2023
1. Be Quiet! Straight Power 11 750W (Quietest With Fan)
The Be Quiet! Straight Power 11 750W is a reliable, high-quality PSU for music production setups.
With a total output of 750 watts and an 80 PLUS Platinum efficiency rating, the PSU provides stable power delivery and high energy efficiency, which is essential for the proper functioning of studio equipment. The unit’s modular design allowed for easy cable management and increased airflow, helping keep the studio setup clean and cool.
Key Features:
- Silent Operation
Operating quietly, the Silent Wings 3 135mm fan (installed in the device) is beneficial in studio environments where noise can be distracting, especially when recording audio or working with sensitive microphones. - Comprehensive Protection Features
Comprehensive protection features such as OCP, OVP, UVP, SCP, OTP, and OPP are included in the PSU to protect the studio equipment from power-related issues, ensuring its longevity. - High-Quality Components
Made with high-quality components such as Japanese capacitors, the PSU ensures its long-term reliability, essential for ensuring that the equipment operates smoothly and consistently over a long period. - Multiple Connectors
The PSU comes with multiple connectors, including PCIe and SATA, commonly used in music production setups, providing flexibility for connecting a wide range of studio equipment. - Overclocking Support
Capable of supporting overclocking, the Be Quiet! Straight Power 11 750W PSU enables you to push your equipment to its limits for maximum performance, which is particularly useful for music producers who require high-performance systems to handle complex audio tasks. - Eco-Friendly
The PSU is eco-friendly, complying with the latest environmental standards, which is important for those conscious of their environmental impact.
While the Be Quiet! Straight Power 11 750W PSU is a high-quality and reliable power supply unit. There are a few potential cons to be aware of. One potential issue is the price, as it is a premium PSU and may be more expensive than other models. Additionally, the PSU is relatively heavy compared to other units, which could be a concern for those who require a lightweight setup. Another potential issue is that the cables provided with the PSU are somewhat stiff, which may make cable management more difficult.
2. FSP Hydro G PRO 750W (Semi-Fanless)
Offering a range of features specifically suited to music production needs, the FSP Hydro G PRO 750W is a powerful and efficient power supply unit.
With 750 watts of power output and 80 PLUS Gold certifications, the PSU delivers stable and reliable power to studio equipment, ensuring high-quality sound production. The FSP Hydro G PRO 750W PSU is semi-fanless, which features a hybrid fan mode that allows the fan to operate only when necessary.
Specifically, when the load on the PSU falls below 30%, the fan will turn off, making the PSU virtually silent. This fanless mode helps reduce noise levels in studio environments and prolongs the fan’s lifespan. However, once the load on the PSU exceeds 30%, the fan will turn back on and operate as needed to cool the PSU.
Key Features:
- Modular Design
A modular design lets you connect only the necessary cables, reducing clutter and improving airflow. This modular design allows for easy cable management, improving the studio’s aesthetics and optimizing the PSU’s cooling capabilities, resulting in consistent and smooth equipment operation. - High-Quality Components
Japanese capacitors are known for their high quality and longevity, making them ideal for high-performance power supply units like the FSP Hydro G PRO 750W PSU. Using these high-quality components, the PSU can provide consistent electricity to the equipment in the studio, ensuring its long-term reliability and durability. - Easy Installation
Designed with a straightforward installation process, the PSU can be installed easily without requiring specialized tools or knowledge. - Low Noise Level
The 120mm Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) fan ensures that the PSU operates quietly, making it an excellent choice in quiet studio environments.
The FSP Hydro G PRO 750W PSU has some potential drawbacks that buyers should be aware of. Some online reviewers have reported that the fan control is limited, so adjusting the fan speed to the desired level may be impossible. In addition, the PSU may not be as widely available as other models, which could be a concern for those who need a replacement or want to purchase additional units.
Another issue is that the PSU may not be compatible with certain motherboards or other components, which could concern those with specific hardware requirements. Lastly, the cables provided with the PSU may not be long enough for some setups, which could require you to purchase additional cables or extensions. It is important to consider these potential drawbacks before making a purchase.
3. Seasonic Focus GX-750 (Customizable Fanless)
Combining high performance and reliability, the Seasonic Focus GX-750 is a premium power supply unit (PSU) that is an ideal choice for music production enthusiasts and professionals.
This 750W PSU is engineered to provide stability and efficiency required for demanding music production tasks, ensuring optimal performance and minimal noise in your studio setup. Please note that it’s also available in 550, 650, 850, and 1000 W output wattage.
Key Features:
- Exceptional Efficiency
With its 80 PLUS Gold certification, the Focus GX-750 boasts high energy efficiency, reducing power wastage and lowering energy bills. That feature benefits the environment and generates less heat, contributing to a quieter and more stable operation. - Fully Modular Design
A modular cable design characterizes the device, enabling you to utilize only the necessary cables, thereby minimizing clutter in your PC build. This design promotes improved airflow and diminishes the likelihood of interference, resulting in a cleaner, more organized system tailored for your music production setup. - Quiet Operation
The Focus GX-750 utilizes a 120mm fluid dynamic bearing fan, which operates silently under low-to-medium loads. This is essential for music production environments, where minimal background noise is crucial for accurate monitoring and recording. - Robust Protection Features
Equipped with numerous built-in protection mechanisms, the device features Under Voltage Protection (UVP), Over Temperature Protection (OTP), Over Power Protection (OPP), Over Voltage Protection (OVP), and Short Circuit Protection (SCP). These safety measures contribute to the durability of your music production equipment and reduce the likelihood of damage stemming from power-related issues. - 7 years warranty
The device comes with an impressive 7-year warranty, which covers any defects in materials or workmanship and ensures that, in case of any issues, Seasonic will either repair or replace the faulty unit.
Despite its many advantages, the Seasonic Focus GX-750 has some potential drawbacks. One notable concern is that the 750W capacity might not be sufficient for music production systems with multiple GPUs or power-hungry components. These could be systems for game sound design or film scoring/SFX.
Additionally, while the fully modular design is useful for cable management, it can make the initial setup more complex for beginners. Finally, although the fan operates quietly under low-to-medium loads, it may become audible under heavy loads or during extended periods of intense music production tasks. This may not be a significant issue for most users, but it’s worth considering if you require a completely silent working environment.
4. Cooler Master MasterWatt 750 (Semi-Fanless)
The Cooler Master MasterWatt offers stable power delivery and efficient operation, ensuring your music production setup runs smoothly and consistently.
It holds an 80 PLUS Bronze certification, ensuring at least 82% efficiency at 20% load, 85% efficiency at 50% load, and 82% efficiency at 100% load. This efficiency level translates into reduced energy consumption, lower heat generation, and a more stable system during music production sessions.
Further, the fan in the PSU only activates when the load exceeds 15% of its capacity, or 112.5W. For those needing silent, fanless operation during music production, this 15% threshold may be limiting. Choosing a higher-wattage PSU or one with a better fanless performance at higher loads is advisable. However, if your system’s power consumption remains within the 15% threshold, the MasterWatt 750 can provide silent operation for accurate monitoring and recording.
Key Features:
- Semi-Modular Design
Featuring a semi-modular design, the MasterWatt 750 enables you to use only the necessary cables for your specific components. This design reduces cable clutter, improves airflow, and minimizes interference, creating a neater and more organized system for your music production setup. - Silent Operation
Incorporating a 120mm Silencio fan, the PSU provides quiet operation even under load, which is particularly important in music production environments. A low-noise background is crucial for accurate monitoring and recording. - 16AWG PCIe cables
The PSU features thicker 16AWG PCIe cables to support the latest graphics cards. These cables are designed to handle higher currents and deliver more stable power to power-hungry components such as GPUs. The 16AWG (American Wire Gauge) rating refers to the thickness of the wire, with lower numbers representing thicker wires.
Thicker wires like 16AWG cables offer lower resistance, reducing power loss and generating heat. This ensures that your high-end graphics cards receive the necessary power to function optimally, which is a great way to future-proof your system as more and more plugins and technology are being developed to work on GPUs. - DC-to-DC circuit design
Employing a DC-to-DC circuit design, the Cooler Master MasterWatt 750 ensures stable voltage output and improved power efficiency. This design converts the main 12V rail to lower voltage rails, such as 5V and 3.3V, providing tighter voltage regulation for system components. Consequently, it enhances performance and reliability, which are essential for music production setups
Despite its many advantages, the Cooler Master MasterWatt 750 also has some potential drawbacks. While still efficient, its 80 PLUS Bronze certification is lower than the Gold certification of some competing PSUs, which might result in slightly higher energy consumption and heat output.
Furthermore, the semi-modular design, although useful for cable management, is less flexible than a fully modular design, making it less convenient for those requiring complete control over their cable routing. Additionally, while the Silencio fan provides quiet operation, it may become audible under heavy loads or during long music production sessions, which could be a concern for those seeking an entirely silent working environment.
5. Corsair RM750x
Providing 750W of power, exceptional efficiency, and silent operation, the Corsair RM750x ensures a stable and reliable energy source for your audio workstation.
With a maximum power output of 750 watts, the PSU can handle demanding music production setups, including those with high-end graphics cards and other power-hungry hardware. The PSU features 80 Plus Gold certification, ensuring a high level of efficiency that results in lower energy bills and reduced heat generation.
The fully modular design of the PSU allows for easy cable management and improved airflow within the case, reducing the risk of overheating and maximizing performance. Additionally, the Corsair RM750x has a ten-year warranty, providing users with peace of mind and assurance of the product’s quality and reliability.
Key Features:
- 80 PLUS Gold Efficiency
Certified as 80 PLUS Gold, the RM750x guarantees a minimum of 87% efficiency at 20% load, 90% efficiency at 50% load, and 87% efficiency at 100% load. This high-efficiency level contributes to decreased energy consumption and heat generation, promoting a more stable system during music production sessions. - Fully Modular Design
Featuring a fully modular design, the RM750x allows you to connect only the essential cables for your components, promoting better cable management, improved airflow, and reduced interference. This design leads to a neater, more organized workspace that enhances your music production setup. - Zero RPM Fan Mode
With a Zero RPM fan mode, the PSU maintains silent operation as the fan remains inactive at low to medium loads. This feature is particularly important in music production environments, as it offers a noise-free background essential for accurate monitoring and recording. - Premium Components
Constructed with high-quality capacitors and components, the RM750x ensures long-lasting, reliable performance. This durability proves essential for music production setups, as consistent power delivery is crucial for achieving optimal performance.
While the Corsair RM750x offers several benefits for music production, there are some potential drawbacks. Although its 80 PLUS Gold efficiency is impressive, higher-rated PSUs are available, such as those with 80 PLUS Platinum certification, offering even greater energy efficiency.
The Zero RPM fan mode may not be completely silent for users with highly sensitive hearing or those working in acoustically treated spaces, as the fan can activate under heavier loads. Lastly, the RM750x may come with a higher price tag than other 750W PSUs, which could concern budget-conscious music producers.
6. Thermaltake SMART 600W ATX
Thermaltake SMART 600W ATX is an affordable power supply unit (PSU) suitable for music production setups with moderate power requirements.
While it may not offer the same high-end features and efficiency as some premium models, it still provides reliable performance for music enthusiasts and entry-level producers. It provides a continuous output at 600W even at temperatures up to 40℃, complying with Intel ATX 12V 2.31 and EPS 12V 2.92 standards.
As an 80 PLUS certified power supply unit, it ensures 80% efficiency under typical load conditions. Additionally, the power good signal, an important feature for system stability, ranges between 100 and 500 milliseconds, contributing to its reliable performance in a music production environment.
Key Features:
- Non-modular Design
Unlike fully or semi-modular PSUs, the Thermaltake SMART 600W features a non-modular design with permanently attached cables. While this can make cable management more challenging, it’s a common trade-off in budget PSUs. - 120mm Cooling Fan
With a 120mm cooling fan designed for quiet operation, the PSU provides a relatively low noise level during music production sessions, although it may not offer zero RPM modes as seen in some higher-end models. - Built-in Protection
The SMART 600W includes standard protection features such as Over Voltage Protection (OVP), Under Voltage Protection (UVP), etc., ensuring the safety of your music production equipment. - Active PFC (Power Factor Correction)
Equipped with an active PFC, the PSU corrects the power factor, improving power efficiency and voltage stability, resulting in more stable and efficient power delivery to your music production setup. - Wide Input Voltage Range
Designed to handle various input voltages, the Thermaltake SMART 600W is compatible with various power grids worldwide, ensuring the reliable operation of your audio workstation in different regions. - Multiple Connectors
Featuring a variety of connectors, such as 24-pin ATX, 8-pin EPS, 6+2-pin PCIe, SATA, and Molex, the PSU is compatible with various components commonly used in music production setups. - High-Quality Fan Bearing
The 120mm cooling fan utilizes a high-quality bearing, contributing to its quiet operation and longer lifespan. This is particularly important in music production environments, where low noise levels are essential for accurate monitoring and recording. - Compact Size
Featuring a compact design, the Thermaltake SMART 600W ATX is suitable for various computer case sizes, ensuring compatibility with music production setups that have limited space without compromising performance.
One potential drawback of the Thermaltake SMART 600W PSU is its non-modular design, resulting in cable clutter and reduced airflow within your case. That could lead to increased temperatures and decreased performance of your music production system.
Additionally, with a power output of only 600 watts, the PSU may not be sufficient for some high-end music production systems that require more power. The PSU may also generate more noise than other PSUs in its class, which could be a minor annoyance for some users.
7. EVGA Super Nova 750 G5
The EVGA SuperNOVA 750 G5 PSU is a high-quality power supply unit capable of providing reliable and stable power to various computer systems, including those used for music production.
With 750 watts of power, it should be more than enough to handle the needs of most music production setups. The device has been designed to provide stable and clean power, which should help minimize potential issues.
Key Features:
- 80 Plus Gold Certified
This PSU is 80 Plus Gold certified, which means it has a high-efficiency level, up to 91%, resulting in lower energy bills and less heat generation. - Fully Modular Design
The EVGA SuperNOVA 750 G5 PSU features a fully modular design, allowing you to connect only the cables you need for your specific system, reducing cable clutter and improving airflow within your case. - Japanese Capacitors & Silent Fan
It is equipped with high-quality Japanese capacitors that provide reliable and long-lasting power to your system. In addition, its fan is designed to operate quietly, ensuring it does not create unwanted noise during music production. - Safe & compact
It has built-in overcurrent protection, which automatically shuts down the PSU in case of a power overload, preventing damage to your system. Its compact design makes it easy to install in most computer cases, ensuring compatibility with various systems. - Active Power Factor Correction
Active Power Factor Correction (PFC) helps improve the PSU’s efficiency and reliability by ensuring it draws only the power it needs, reducing energy waste and heat generation.
While the EVGA SuperNOVA 750 G5 PSU has many positive features, there are a few potential downsides. One potential drawback is that it is a relatively expensive option compared to other power supplies with similar specifications. Additionally, online reviewers have reported that the cables can be stiff and difficult to manage, which may be a minor inconvenience during installation.
Another potential issue is that the PSU’s fan may not be powerful enough to adequately cool the unit under heavy loads, which could lead to increased heat and potentially reduce the lifespan of the components. However, this is generally only a concern for those with particularly demanding systems. Finally, while the PSU has a 10-year warranty, some earlier customers have reported difficulty getting support from EVGA in case of a failure or other issues.
8. SilverStone Technology ET550-B
Providing stable and reliable power to a computer system, which is crucial for recording and producing music, the SilverStone Technology ET550-B PSU could be a suitable option for a music production system.
With its 550-watt output, this PSU should be sufficient for most music production setups, as they typically do not require as much power as gaming or high-performance computing systems. Additionally, the semi-modular design of the ET550-B can help reduce cable clutter and improve airflow within your case, which is important for maintaining stable and cool operating temperatures.
Key Features:
- 80 Plus Bronze Certified
With an 80 Plus Bronze certification, the PSU has a high-efficiency level of up to 85%, which results in lower energy bills and less heat generation. - Compact Design
Featuring a compact design, the SilverStone Technology ET550-B can be easily installed in most computer cases, providing compatibility with various systems. - Quiet Operation
The PSU features a 120mm fan designed to operate quietly, ensuring it does not create any unwanted noise during operation. In addition, it has a single +12V rail design, which provides stable and reliable power to your system. - Semi-Modular Design
A semi-modular design is featured in this PSU, where some cables are permanently attached while others can be removed as needed. That helps reduce cable clutter and improve airflow within your case. - Overcurrent Protection
It has built-in overcurrent protection, which automatically shuts down the PSU in case of a power overload, preventing damage to your system. It also features short circuit protection, which helps protect your system during a short circuit.
While the SilverStone Technology ET550-B PSU has many positive features, there are a few potential drawbacks. One potential limitation of this PSU is its lower wattage output than other PSUs. While it should be sufficient for most music production systems, it may not be powerful enough for high-end game sound design work.
Additionally, some users have reported that the cables can be stiff and difficult to manage during installation, which can be a minor inconvenience. The ET550-B also lacks advanced features that may be desirable for high-end music production systems, such as advanced cable management options or high-wattage output.
9. Seasonic Prime PX-750
Suitable for music production systems, the Seasonic Prime PX-750 is a high-end power supply unit.
A 750-watt output provides sufficient power to handle the demands of most music production setups. The PSU is 80 Plus Platinum certified, which ensures an extremely high-efficiency level of up to 94%, resulting in lower energy bills and less heat generation. The fully modular design and fanless mode further enhance the efficiency and quiet operation of the PSU.
Key Features:
- Premium Components
It is equipped with premium components, including high-quality capacitors and a 135mm Fluid Dynamic Bearing fan, which provide reliable and long-lasting power to your system. - Overcurrent Protection
Built-in overcurrent protection is featured in the PSU, which automatically shuts down the unit in case of a power overload to prevent damage to your system. Furthermore, a single +12V rail design ensures stable and reliable power delivery to your system. - 12-Year Warranty
An exceptional 12-year warranty is offered with the Seasonic Prime PX-750 PSU, making it one of the longest warranties available for a PSU. This warranty period gives users a high level of assurance that the product is built to last and that Seasonic stands behind the quality of its product. - Premium Hybrid Fan Control
The hybrid fan control of the PSU is designed to provide optimal cooling and noise reduction, adjusting fan speed according to the temperature and load of the system. - Multi-GPU Support
The Seasonic Prime PX-750 supports multi-GPU setups, making it an ideal choice for users who need to run multiple graphics cards for high-end gaming or multimedia work.
Now let’s consider its cons. One potential limitation of this PSU is its high price point, which may not be suitable for all budgets. Additionally, the 750-watt output may be overkill for some music production systems, leading to unnecessary power consumption and heat generation.
Next, the PSU’s cables may be stiff and difficult to manage during installation, which can be a minor inconvenience. Finally, the hybrid fan control may not be suitable for those who prioritize silence, as the fan may still produce some noise during operation.
10. Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 650W
The Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 650W is a high-quality power supply unit that could be an excellent choice for music production systems.
The device offers ample power to meet the demands of most music production systems, including those with mid-range graphics cards or other hardware. It has an 80 Plus Gold certification, which attests to its high-efficiency level of up to 90%, resulting in reduced energy costs and less heat generated.
The PSU’s fully modular design and Smart Zero Fan mode improve its efficiency and keep its operation quiet.
Key Features:
- Smart Zero Fan
The PSU features a Smart Zero Fan mode, which allows the fan to turn off completely during low-load situations, ensuring quiet operation during music production. - Premium Components
Equipped with high-quality capacitors and a hydraulic bearing fan, the Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 650W offers premium components that ensure reliable and long-lasting power delivery to your music production system. - 10-year warranty
With its 10-year warranty, the PSU covers defects in materials or workmanship, and Thermaltake will repair or replace the PSU at no cost if it fails due to these issues. This extended warranty period ensures that users can rely on the PSU for many years, even if they upgrade or change their music production system. - Zero cable platform
Its cable-free design improves airflow and reduces clutter within your computer case. This platform allows you to connect only the cables you need for your specific system, which improves cable management and makes installation easier. This can help to reduce the risk of cable-related issues that could impact the performance of your music production system. - 16AWG wires
16AWG wires are thicker and provide better conductivity than standard 18AWG wires. This results in less voltage drop and improved efficiency, ensuring that your music production system receives a stable and reliable power supply. Using thicker wires also means the PSU is better equipped to handle high current loads, ensuring reliable power delivery even during peak usage. - <30 mV low ripple noise
Ripple noise refers to the fluctuation in the voltage output of a PSU, which can affect the stability of your music production system. High ripple noise levels can cause system crashes, data loss, and hardware damage. The low ripple noise level of the Toughpower GF1 650W ensures that your system receives stable and reliable power, reducing the risk of these issues. This feature is particularly important for music production systems that require stable and noise-free power delivery to ensure optimal performance and sound quality.
While the Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 650W PSU has many positive features, there are a few potential drawbacks. One potential limitation is its high price point, which may not be suitable for all budgets. Additionally, the 650-watt output may be insufficient for high-end music production systems requiring more power. While useful for reducing noise, the Smart Zero Fan mode may not provide sufficient cooling for systems with higher power consumption.
11. Antec NeoECO NE500G
A mid-range power supply unit, the Antec NeoECO NE500G, could be suitable for music production systems that do not require high power output.
A 500-watt output provides sufficient power for most music production systems with basic hardware components. The PSU is 80 Plus Bronze certified, ensuring an efficient power delivery of up to 92%, which results in lower energy bills and less heat generation.
Its semi-modular design reduces cable clutter and enhances airflow within your case, improving cooling performance. The PSU features built-in overcurrent protection, which automatically shuts down the unit in case of a power overload, preventing damage to your system.
Key Features:
- Universal Input
The PSU features a universal input voltage range of 100-240V, making it compatible with a wide range of power outlets. In addition, it is equipped with a 120mm silent fan that provides efficient cooling while keeping noise levels low. - Antec Quality 5-Year
AQ5, or Antec Quality 5-Year, is a warranty program Antec offers for its power supply units, including the NeoECO NE500G PSU. The program provides a five-year warranty that covers the power supply unit against any defects in materials or workmanship. - Eco-Friendly Design
With an eco-friendly design, the PSU offers a high level of efficiency that results in reduced energy consumption and lower carbon emissions. - Multiple Connectors
The PSU ensures compatibility with various systems with multiple connectors, including 24-pin ATX, 4+4-pin EPS, 6+2-pin PCIe, SATA, and Molex. - LLC + DC to DC Design
The Antec NeoECO NE500G PSU features an LLC resonant topology with DC to DC design, which helps improve its efficiency and reliability. The LLC resonant topology allows the PSU to switch between different power modes more efficiently, reducing energy loss and improving power efficiency. The DC-to-DC design also helps improve the PSU’s efficiency by converting the voltage levels more efficiently, reducing energy loss and heat generation.
Moving on to its cons, one potential drawback of the Antec NeoECO NE500G PSU is its mid-range power output of 500 watts, which may not be sufficient for some high-end music production systems that require more power. Additionally, the semi-modular design of the PSU may not be as convenient for some users as a fully modular design, as some cables are permanently attached. The fan noise may also be louder than expected for some users, which can be a minor annoyance.
12. Azza PSAZ-550W (Budget)
A budget-friendly power supply unit, the Azza PSAZ-550W PSU, could suit music production systems with basic hardware components.
A 550-watt output provides sufficient power for most music production systems without breaking the bank. The PSU is 80 Plus Bronze certified, ensuring an efficient power delivery, which results in lower energy bills and less heat generation.
It has a non-modular design, which may result in cable clutter and reduced airflow within your case. The PSU features built-in overcurrent and overvoltage protection, which automatically shuts down the unit in case of a power overload or surge, preventing damage to your system.
Key Features:
- Budget-Friendly
Priced at just around $55, the Azza PSAZ-550W PSU is a budget-friendly power supply unit that offers reliable power delivery at an affordable price point. - Overcurrent and Overvoltage Protection
It features built-in overcurrent and overvoltage protection, which automatically shuts down the unit in case of a power overload or surge, preventing damage to your system. - Safety Approvals
Passing safety certifications and meeting various safety standards, such as CE, FCC, CB, and RoHS, the Azza PSAZ-550W PSU has been tested and verified to meet safety regulations and requirements. This feature provides users with added peace of mind and confidence in the safety and reliability of the product. - Black Mesh Cable Sleeving
The cables of the PSU are covered with black mesh cable sleeving, which not only adds an aesthetic touch to the build but also protects the cables from damage and reduces cable clutter.
One potential drawback of the Azza PSAZ-550W PSU is its non-modular design, which may result in cable clutter and reduced airflow within your case. This could lead to increased temperatures and decreased performance of your music production system.
Additionally, with a power output of only 550 watts, the PSU may not be sufficient for some high-end music production systems that require more power. The PSU may also generate more noise than other PSUs in its class, which could be a minor annoyance for some of you.
Conclusion
Now that we have discussed all the PSUs let’s round up all devices listed above so you can decide what you need based on your requirements. Firstly, for those who value high energy efficiency, the Be Quiet! Straight Power 11 750W, Seasonic Focus GX-750, and Seasonic Prime PX-750 are excellent options with 80 Plus Platinum certification.
The FSP Hydro G PRO 750W and Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 650W offer 80 Plus Gold certification, while the Cooler Master MasterWatt 750, Thermaltake SMART 600W ATX, Antec NeoECO NE500G, and Azza PSAZ-550W have 80 Plus Bronze certification. These PSUs deliver efficient power management, resulting in lower energy bills and less heat generation.
For those who require a quiet environment during music production sessions, the FSP Hydro G PRO 750W, Corsair RM750x, and Seasonic Prime PX-750 have a hybrid or fanless mode, making them virtually silent. The Cooler Master MasterWatt 750 and Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 650W have Smart Zero Fan modes, which improve their efficiency and keep their operation quiet.
Those with basic hardware components can choose the Antec NeoECO NE500G or Azza PSAZ-550W, which are budget-friendly options provide reliable power delivery with built-in overcurrent and overvoltage protection. The semi-modular design of the SilverStone Technology ET550-B and Antec NeoECO NE500G reduces cable clutter and improves airflow within the case, while the fully modular design of the other PSUs provides flexibility in power management.
In conclusion, the choice of PSU for a music production setup depends on the hardware components’ power requirements, the importance of energy efficiency and noise level, and the budget. All the PSUs listed above provide reliable and stable power delivery for music production setups, but the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and requirements. I hope the article helps. Thank you for reading.
Shaurya Bhatia, is an Indian Music Producer, Composer, Rapper & Performer, who goes by the stage name MC SNUB, and is also 1/2 of the Indian pop music duo, called “babyface”. A certified Audio Engineer & Music Producer, and a practicing musician & rapper for more than 6 years, Shaurya has worked on projects of various genres and has also been a teaching faculty at Spin Gurus DJ Academy.