Class-A Amplification and 15 Amp Outlet
Pardon my electrical theory ignorance, but I have always been intrigued by the beauty of Class - A sound, as such, I am actively exploring a purchase. My question is based upon the power draw (even at idle) and the ability of a 15 Amp wall outlet to provide such without tripping. I have looked at the "big boys" from Pass XA160’s, Gryphons Essence Stereo & Antileon EVO to name a few. I do not have the option of installing a dedicated circuit in my unit. So, would I be ok if the electronics (including a DAC/preamp) were on the same circuit?
Thanks!!
@carlsbad There does often seem to be a lot of handwaving happening going on sometimes whenever some little bit of quite simple maths is required. It is quite relevant to any discussion of power cords, judging from the abundant confusion demonstrated on some threads on the issue, and I've been blessed with having the fortitude to be able to read a few. And then there are fuses.... |
I am totally not sure about this advice as lamp cords supply lights which these days are just a few watts, with much variability. Probably 18 AWG or thereabouts? Amp spec sheets that I have seen specify maximum watts and it is this peak that is informative for conservative decision making (should there be a choice), not average watts - class A/B, for example, vary with volume. So no, I don’t think that all an amp needs is the average wattage. Many amps require much more than a lamp light (my class A amp is about 350 watts, and some are much more), so it’d be prudent to consider a heavier gauge, such as the generic ones which also have regulatory approved connections. Without checking, in my country I think they are generally rated for about 2,400 watts - one size fits all, kinda thing. Plenty. Easy. No need for consideration to be given to a choice between 8 or 10 or 12 AWG etc etc. Blah. Seen this, true. |
A 15 amp wall outlet is sufficient for the amps you mention.. And also for the DAC and preamp. Should you wish to research for yourself, understand Ohms law as it explains the relationship between volts, amps and watts. Add up the watts drawn by each component as if they were one (this might be on a label at the back along with the volt and phase rating, or in the specs). Different countries have different voltages so this is why you have to do the calculation for yourself, should you wish to satisfy your curiosity. |
