The Oehlbach Phase Detector is an audio measurement tool designed to analyze the phase relationship between two audio signals. It helps identify phase issues that can affect sound quality and imaging in audio systems. The device features a user-friendly interface for easy operation, making it suitable for both professionals and enthusiasts. It is often used in sound engineering, home theater setups, and live sound environments. Overall, the Oehlbach Phase Detector is essential for optimizing audio performance and ensuring accurate sound reproduction.
Brand
Oehlbach is a German company renowned for its high-quality audio and video cables, connectors, and accessories. Founded in 1975, it focuses on premium products designed to enhance sound and picture quality for home entertainment systems. The brand is recognized for its innovation and commitment to excellence in the electronics industry.
Current price
The Phase Detector is currently offered on the Oehlbach website for €97 with a delivery time of 48h. In addition, the device is also available from hi-fi dealers and major online stores. There’s only one finish: silver.
What’s in the box
If we unbox the Oehlbach Phase detector, we find the “Phaser” itself, a 9V battery, a ground cable, a strip with 10 red ring stickers and a torque wrench.
Top side
The first thing you notice when you look at the device from the top is the socket. Left and right of the socket are the polarity indicators (red LEDs).
Sides
The side where you can see the 9V battery symbol (yellow LED) is the one where you need to remove the 2 screws with the supplied torque wrench to connect the included battery to make the unit operational. On that same side you can mount a ground cable to the connection terminal.
On the other side you’ll find the “Test” button which needs to be pushed to get a result. Beside that button there’s a “Low battery” indicator. We also find the same 2 screws on this side to remove the side panel.
For whom is this product?
The Oehlbach Phase detector is intended for the rapid and simple detection of the proper phase polarity of audio and video components. If you connect several hi-fi, video or home cinema devices to a multiple outlet strip without taking their phase in account, the earth potential equalizing currents can cause perceptible interference. This cannot happen if you connect them correctly to a phase-identified mains strip (like for example the Oehlbach Powersocket or Powerstation) and you will be rewarded with the best picture and sound quality. The tester is easy to operate and is run by reliable, solid technology. The cabinet comes in a solid, high-grade aluminum finish aluminum case. The Phase detector is powered by a standard 9 V battery, which is in included.
How to operate?
We start by making the unit operational. For that we need to install the battery. Start by removing the 2 screws on the side with the ground connection terminal with the supplied torque wrench. Open the side of the device and connect the supplied 9V battery to the terminals. Stow the battery in an upright position in the Phase detector. Avoid mechanical stress when screwing down the side cover. Oehlbach recommends removing the battery during long periods of inactivity. The Phase detector is now ready for use. Switch off the power on the device of which you wish to determine the phase difference. If this device has a separate mains power switch, turn that off too. Connect the power cable to the socket of the Oehlbach Phase detector. Switch on the device. Press and hold the “Test” button. One of the two red LEDs now lights to indicate the phase of the connected device. To double check, unplug the device, rotate the plug 180° and plug it back in. The other red LED should now light up when you press the “Test” button. The phase of the device has now been determined. Mark the connector side on which the LED lit up with one of the red colored rings. Just push it over the pin. Repeating this procedure enables you to connect your devices to a multiple outlet strip all with the same phase. If the same LED lights up after you’ve turned the plug 180°, then connect the supplied ground cable between the Phase detector and the ground of the device under test. The outside contact of a cinch socket, for example, makes a perfect earthing point. Then repeat the test procedure and determine the correct phase.
Conclusion
At €97 the Phase detector is a “no brainer” product. For every audio and video enthusiast, this should be a must-have accessory. Considering the price, this device makes an enormous contribution to the sound quality of your system by making sure that all your devices are connected with the right “in-phase” polarity.
Frequently asked questions
What accessories do you need to make the Phase Detector operational?
A 9V battery (included) and the supplied torque wrench, used to remove the two screws on the side panel so you can connect the battery.
How do you determine the phase polarity of a device?
Connect its power cable to the Phase Detector’s socket, switch the device on and press and hold the “Test” button — one of the two red LEDs lights up to indicate the phase. Mark that plug orientation with one of the supplied red rings.
What should you do if the same LED lights up after flipping the plug 180°?
Connect the supplied ground cable between the Phase Detector and the ground of the device under test — the outer contact of an RCA socket makes a good earthing point — then repeat the test.
Why does connecting components with the right phase matter?
If several hi-fi, video or home cinema devices are connected to a multiple outlet strip without regard to their phase, earth-potential equalizing currents can cause perceptible interference. Connecting everything to a phase-identified mains strip avoids that and gives the best picture and sound quality.
