2. amps-preamps
  3. 1020002050

Dedicated AC Line or Upgrade Equipment?

I am wondering how many of you out there have dedicated ac line for your audio system. I have heard that getting a dedicated ac line does wonders for your system.

By dedicated ac line I mean either having a sub-circuit totally dedicated to your audio, or in some cases, running a separate 20-amp ac line with its own electric meter. In the extreme case, I have heard that people have bought power generators (no - not the PS Audio kind) to power their entire audio system so that they can get the optimal audio performance.

I am thinking about upgrading to a class A amp on my system. However, I am concerned that without a dedicated 20 amp line, I may never get the optimal performance out of the class A amp. For example, I currently bi-amp my main left/right speakers with a Krell KAV-1500 5 channel amp (class AB). In the owners manual, Krell advises using a dedicated 20 amp line to get the optimal performance out of the amp.

So is it a moot point to even think about further equipment upgrades when the source of my audio system is not optimized - that is, when I don't have a dedicated ac line.

I like to hear from people who have experienced with dedicated ac line and whether they think it is worth getting a class A amp before one has a dedicated line.

Thank you for sharing your insight.
avguy

Showing 1 response by alexanderj

alexanderj
139 posts
 
Avguy, it wouldn't surprise me that a dedicated line would improve your present system as well. If you want to do a mock up, purchase a new 12 gauge grounded extension cord and run it from your laundry outlet (of course temporarily disconnect your laundry appliances)to your sound system. If you have a dishwasher in the kitchen that has a plug in that would be an alternative as well. Avoid the kitchen counter top outlets and bathroom outlets that have ground fault protection. See if you detect an improvement.

I noticed a significant improvement with my dedicated line.

Plenty (hours) of additional info and input if you search the forum archives.
More to discover