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Dealing with a power amp that need 20A connection

I just bought a used Audio Research power amp without knowing it needs 20A connection.
When I received the amp, there was no power cable included, and I've found out that the amp has a connection that I've never seen before. I thought it might be for 250 Volt, but later found out that this amp needs a special power cable with C19 type female connector and it has to be 12 AWG and 20A.
So, I ordered a 20A 12AWG power cable and a PS Audio power receptacle that supports 20A male connector type.
After reading a few more articles on 20A power amp, I may also need a 20A circuit breaker. The problem is, the circuit breaker for the audio room is 15A. Does it mean that I need a new breaker with 20A to use the amp?
What a hassle.
The seller did not mention anything about the cable power requirement and I assumed that it was included, but the seller didn't seem to have known anything about this amp. 
So, installing a new circuit breaker is something non tech people can do? If not, how much would I need to spend for professional job?
Would it be just OK to use 15A circuit breaker for the amp as long as I use 20A 12AWG power code and don't turn the volume much high?
Thx advance for your input.
128x128ihcho
folkfreak's avatar
folkfreak
1,349 posts
 
No ARC amp (unless you have a pair of Ref 750 Monos perhaps) needs a 20A breaker and circuit.

ARC specify the 20A IEC because they believe its physical and acoustic properties are superior. Also they do not use the 20A male connector because most domestic circuits don’t accept it -- most (frankly all the ones I’ve ever seen) "20A IEC" cords come with a standard NEMA 5-15P

Use an appropriately rated cord and a 15A->20A IEC female adaptor if needed (such as the great models from Venom) and you will be fine. Or have your preferred cord reterminated -- AQ for example will do this for any of their cords at a modest cost

Finally if you do want to install your new 20A receptacle (which you don't need to) it must be on a 20A circuit otherwise it's a code violation and future fire risk (should someone actually plug a true 20A load in)
https://www.lowellmfg.com/wp-content/uploads/LowellPlugs.pdf
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
@ihcho  I had to deal with a similar issue though my amp did come with a very good stock 20A cord.

However, the stock power cable (which I reiterate was quite good and capable) was surpassed by my aftermarket power cord, a 15A standard cable, with a 20A > 15A IEC adaptor.

I purchased another one of my aftermarket power cables with a 20A IEC termination and a 15A male three prong end. This surpassed the adaptor (same power cable, but new). [Emphasis - new without adaptor beat fully broken in with adaptor].

I encourage you to try both approaches, but I believe re-terminating will offer superior results.

All the best.
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fsonicsmith's avatar
fsonicsmith
942 posts
 
Folkfreak nailed it. Look at it in simple terms. If the amp drew more than 15 amps, it would trip the 15A circuit breaker in your electrical panel and further, ARC would likely mandate a 20A male plug and warn you to install a 20A line, 20A rated receptacle, and 20A breaker along with 10Ga Romex on a dedicated 20A line. 
Relax and enjoy your new amp. ARC has been designing their amps this way for quite some time now. It's admittedly kind of silly. I own a Ref 150 SE and love it. 
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