2. amps-preamps
  3. 126449-62094

THE WALL---Why?

No, this does not refer to Pink Floyd or Donald Trump! 
  I was just wondering why audio dealers tell you to plug the power amplifier into the wall, rather than into my PS Audio power plant? What harm would it do to plug it into the Power Plant; it has plenty of capacity?! Would I risk any damage if I plugged my power amplifier direct into the power plant? 
just curious... thanks.   ---Steve
warmglowingtubesart
psickerson
97 posts
 
Can someone explain what the point of having capacitors are in an amplifier?  ;)


enliten
44 posts
 
Sure - the need for a wall outlet direct connection for AC input and the need for storage capacitors for DC power in power amps are the same - very large instantaneous current demands for music's transients. AC power outlets can supply 10000A+ for very short periods, I doubt any power conditioner can match that #. Paul may try, but alas it would be grossly expensive to do so...

Preamps and other line-level devices do not have the very large current demands. This is due to the fact that impedance levels are much higher (100x or more) as well as signal size being lower (100x lower as a rule of thiumb).
danvignau's avatar
danvignau
935 posts
 

If you plug the amp into the wall, you might decide to plug in everything there and not buy the device.

Seriously, these devices make up for not having a 30 amp circuit.

I ran 2 of them with 10 Gua wire and separate breakers.

Another trick is to run a construction extension cord from a socket on a separate breaker and split the audio amps. I demonstrate the difference with some bass dropping out when I only use one circuit.


If you have a 15 amp circuit, with other things on it, you absolutely need the device.


Ag insider logo xs@2x
cleeds
6,046 posts
 
enliten
AC power outlets can supply 10000A+ for very short periods
No way ... at least certainly not where I live. And I've measured it. Many people would be shocked to discover that their 200A service can't even deliver 125 amps. In fact, 200A service isn't designed to actually deliver 200A.
humand
18 posts
 
It is mostly the fact that power conditioners or whatever you want to call them have a maximum current capacity and amplifiers need a lot of current. Regenerative power supplies have rather severe limitations for maximum wattage and can be damaged.
 I use a Monster HTS3500 and find it sounds much better if I plug my amplifiers into it. It is very synergistic like power cords and is up to your own ears. Each device ought to have its own recommendations and parameters. Your results will absolutely vary.
More to discover