Can I use a Japan 100v Technics DJ Mixer in Canada?

[thedj]

Hello there,

I was given (as a gift) a Japan model Technics DJ Mixer. On the back it says 100v. I know here in Canada we use 110/120v.

Is it safe to just plug it in or do I really need a step down converter? I mean 110v to 100v does not seem like much but is it enough to damage the unit?

Reason I ask is I have been doing some reading and some say yes and others say no. Does anyone have the background to actually really know?

Thanks in advance everyone!

[Glen B]

I would eer on the side of caution and use a stepdown transformer. The mixer does not draw that much power so you would only need a small transformer. Operating 100V equipment on 115/120V nominal puts it at 15-20% above the operating voltage rating. If you account for AC supply voltage peaks, that's adding another 2-3% on top of that. By now you see where this is going. I would not oparate my equipment at 20+% above its rating.