Romex and breaker switches


I did a search and have read previous posts, but I still have some questions. I had an electrician install dedicated lines in my listening room when we built our house 20 years ago. I bought simple hospital grade outlets from a big box store and did not specify the gauge of the romex or anything else. I need to clear out my dedicated listening room soon for new hardwood to be installed and figured now would be a good time to revisit and improve my dedicated lines. I have already bought a pair of Oyaide R1 duplexes and intend to have them installed side by side behind my equipment rack. My question is-is there a particular variation of 10 gauge romex that would be best? I have looked and there are quite a few variations including 10-2 and 10-3 and I have no idea what to buy or for that matter, if some other wire that would do the job and not be prohibitively expensive presents a better option. I will need a 20 foot run for each duplex. Also, can someone help me as to whether the breaker switch on my panel matters much and whether I should opt for 20A, 30A, or other? I now know that all runs from my duplexes to the panel should be to the same leg. I will make sure that happens. Any other recommendations or advice about romex/wire to use and breaker switches given my decision to go with Oyaide R1's would be most appreciated. 
128x128fsonicsmith

Showing 4 responses by lak

For your short runs I'd recommend 12-2 wire on 20 amp dedicated breakers, as others said it will be easier to attach to your outlets, and should you ever decide to switch out your outlets in the future it will be easier and lessen the possibility of damaging your AC outlet when you have to push the outlet back into the outlet box (I've been there and actually broke some high-end outlets).
In my main system, I have six dedicated outlets that are between 50 to 60-foot runs. I experimented with 12 and 10 gauge wire including cryogenically treated wire. I honestly could not detect a difference in sound or performance, however, I realize for peace of mind many will suggest 10 gauge wire and/or specially wire.
I do hear a difference with cryoed vs non-cryoed AC outlets.
@fsonicsmith how are you planning to use an isolation transformer within your set up?