Dedicated Line Advise


I currently have a 20 amp dedicated line run to my small HiFi rig; amp, preamp, CDP, TT, power conditioning. I wish to add a second line using the same electrician who has worked on my house. It looks like he used 12 gauge Romex last time.

What are the key facts that I should know in case he is not familiar with doing wiring for audio systems?
I'm talking about the installation at the breaker box, e.g., keeping proper phase and preventing a ground-loop between the 2 circuits.
128x128lowrider57

Showing 2 responses by imjustdave

I like the idea Coli has...  

If your gear will run 220 volt, you will have a lot more power available, and honestly could convert the line you have now to 220 and use a regular plug near by to run the 120 volt stuff. Maybe even save a few $ as it would only take a different breaker.  If you still want the second line I would make it 220 if you have any gear that can use it.

@Lowrider57

If 120V is fine why do you want another line? I assume you need more power in this location by adding in another line VS just wanting another line to look at. 

I don't know your level of knowledge in regards to power, but if you double the Voltage 240V in this case the draw your equipment  has in terms of amps will drop in half.   So basically you can run twice the amount of draw in watts on the same wire you already have if you change the breaker in the box, and and plugs at the other end the cost from your electrician should be much much lower. 

I'm also assume the area already has an outlet near by so you have 120V available for the TV, cable box and the new 220 Line can take care of the hungry power hogs like the amps.  

Example of your power avalible now in 120 VS 240 setup 
Volts * Amps = wattage. 
120 * 20 = 2400 Watts of power 
240 * 20 = 4800 Watts of power. 


To be honest I'm setting up a new HT and I'm hoping I won't need to run more power for it but this thread made me think about it and Coli Idea was like hitting the bell at the county fair, If I have to run another line it will be 240 as it just makes more sense.  But in your case if your equipment can use 240 it would be a big money saver.

Also not talked about is you could in theory install a small breaker box and convert the new 240 line back to 2 120 volt lines.  

What my long winded TLDR point is there are possibly many more options available some potentially at less costs, and possibly better as well.