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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
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cleeds
5,960 posts
 
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.

lak's avatar
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lak
4,652 posts
 
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.
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cleeds
5,960 posts
 
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.
tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 
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.
ozzy's avatar
ozzy
7,493 posts
 

cleeds,

Your workaround would result in the smaller wire being the rated value. So, don't use a pigtail with a smaller gauge to a larger gauge.

Too bad there isn't an approved audiophile type wire to be used for our dedicated lines. With that thought, how about an audiophile breaker? Perhaps made with carbon fiber or graphene?

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