US and UK power sockets... please help ;)

[mindgam3]

Ok, i've asked for my parents to bring back some computer speakers with them from America. They have their own power source and are obviously wired for US sockets.

US power is 130V isn't it? I don't know but i do know it's less than UK which I think is about 240V.

What i want to know is if i just get an adapter from a travel shop and plug them into my UK socket, what are the chances of it blowing? Is there anyway i can find out? The user manuals on the internet. Or will i need a special power convertor to convert the 240V into 130V. i've got one of these but they're so big and too much hassle, I jsut want to be able to plug it in with a simple travel adapter.

Has anybody from the US been over to the UK and had difficulties with power - laptops, speakers etc?

If someone could give me an answer in the next few days that would be great cos i've got to tell them if i want them to get it or not.

Cheers

[mindgam3]

hmmm jus read the online manual again and it says:

Power Rating

USA/Canada: 115VAC
International: 230VAC

I'm assuming this does mean i can just plug it straight into my UK socket with a travel adapter and it can handle 230V? Someone agree or correct me

[nholley]

I just use a socket converter. To date I have had no problems with it.

[TT]

Yup a converter will do. I have a couple of US consoles and of course I need one.. it's a bit of a pain because usually it heat up a lot so it's better to unplug it after use, but no problem at all beside that.

[mindgam3]

sounds like i should be ok then, guess i'll find out soon

[TransAm]

A converter is fine for low power stuff. Anything with sensitive circuits or with a reasonable power consumption (like a 500W Hifi Amp) will need a transformer.

You should be ok with PC speakers, and if you want to you can probably get a UK spec AC adaptor when you return to the UK...if you're unsure just take the product manual of the speakers into Tandy and they'll help you out