AC 101 : Voltage Question


Different countries/continents have various AC schemes; (100v, 110v, 120v, 210v, 220v) and (50hz/60hz cps). I know voltages need to be matched between the wall and component. I've got a couple of questions. Would a component from overseas that uses 210-240v work on an American 240v circut? Does it matter if the circut has one or two hot legs? Does equipment on 240v circuts sound inherently better because the power is being delivered "balanced"? Is 240v power "balanced"? Is the higher voltage used overseas delivered one one leg? Just a few thoughts.....
rickmac

Showing 1 response by blindjim

Different schools of thought, that's all. Euro goes with higher voltage & lower current with lower frequency. thus can use smaller cables to carry the power line and supposedly it will provide for less maintainence.

We go with higher current and lower voltage with a higher freq.

Both alternate current, one leg hot one neutral, one comon.

Six one way, half a dozen the other. Diesel or gas... you pick. It all gets us where we want to go. Each will have it's own native benefits and/or drawbacks.

There are devices which will allow operation of the predisposed gear in either camp 240v/50Hz or 120v/60Hz. Some equip makers refrain from converting these items to or from in after the fact scenarios. Some have no problems with it... going on the info I've read in these threads here.

I suspect that's also why some items being made today will automatically seek out and run on the wall supply, regardless the sort being supplied. Oppo... BenQ.. etc.