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Dealing with a power amp that need 20A connection

I just bought a used Audio Research power amp without knowing it needs 20A connection.
When I received the amp, there was no power cable included, and I've found out that the amp has a connection that I've never seen before. I thought it might be for 250 Volt, but later found out that this amp needs a special power cable with C19 type female connector and it has to be 12 AWG and 20A.
So, I ordered a 20A 12AWG power cable and a PS Audio power receptacle that supports 20A male connector type.
After reading a few more articles on 20A power amp, I may also need a 20A circuit breaker. The problem is, the circuit breaker for the audio room is 15A. Does it mean that I need a new breaker with 20A to use the amp?
What a hassle.
The seller did not mention anything about the cable power requirement and I assumed that it was included, but the seller didn't seem to have known anything about this amp. 
So, installing a new circuit breaker is something non tech people can do? If not, how much would I need to spend for professional job?
Would it be just OK to use 15A circuit breaker for the amp as long as I use 20A 12AWG power code and don't turn the volume much high?
Thx advance for your input.
128x128ihcho

Showing 1 response by fsonicsmith

fsonicsmith's avatar
fsonicsmith
931 posts
 
Folkfreak nailed it. Look at it in simple terms. If the amp drew more than 15 amps, it would trip the 15A circuit breaker in your electrical panel and further, ARC would likely mandate a 20A male plug and warn you to install a 20A line, 20A rated receptacle, and 20A breaker along with 10Ga Romex on a dedicated 20A line. 
Relax and enjoy your new amp. ARC has been designing their amps this way for quite some time now. It's admittedly kind of silly. I own a Ref 150 SE and love it. 
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