In wall AC cables


Hi to my fellow audiophiles. I am installing an new electrical panel as part of a renovation. As such, I would like to install a few dedicated in wall cable runs to my audio system and welcome your advise regarding best cable to install, brand, gauge, amperage etc. Thanks in advance for sharing your knowledge with me.
audiofool1
@cleeds

What exactly do you think is not allowed? 220V is an uncommon, but not illegal outlet type.

Circuit breakers are rated for current in two ways. What current they trip at (15A, 20A, etc.) and the maximum current which they can interrupt, called "Interrupt Rating." That is, if a short occurs, how much current could the breaker interrupt safely. This must take into account the size of the wiring and the transformer type all the way back to the transformer. However, usually this is taken care of by the panel or service breaker, and not the individual breakers themselves.

So, increasing the gauge of the cable used at the service entrance may in fact result in having to change the service or main breakers to have a greater interrupt rating, even if the trip current rating is the same.

Best,


Erik
erik_squires


What exactly do you think is not allowed? 220V is an uncommon, but not illegal outlet type.
It’s not the outlet that may not meet code, but your suggestion of a " 220 service to a transformer ($200 - $500 ish) professionally installed in the room." Professional installation here suggests a hardwired xformer - otherwise the user could plug it in himself - and these are governed under code. Always, always, always check local code.
So, increasing the gauge of the cable used at the service entrance may in fact result in having to change the service or main breakers ...
We’re not talking about the cable used at the service entrance, but the gauge of cable used in a branch circuit, and your dubious recommendation to use the minimum gauge cable.

10 gauge wire to a 20 amp breaker. Be awear that 10 gauge is a bit harder to attach to the AC outlet, but it can be done for sure.
I don't know that the brand of cable will matter.
Some audio websites sell cryogenitacilly treated copper wire if you care to spend the additional money.
lak
10 gauge wire to a 20 amp breaker. Be awear that 10 gauge is a bit harder to attach to the AC outlet, but it can be done for sure.
Yes, the heavier the gauge, the more difficult it is to work with. One workaround when using 10 ga. or 8 ga. wire on a 20A receptacle is to use a pigtail from the wire to the outlet.

I did experience a friend go through a few upgrades to his dedicated lines. From this experience, I can say 10 gauge was an improvement from 12 gauge, and a cryo’d 10 was better than the standard one.