Class-A Amplification and 15 Amp Outlet


Pardon my electrical theory ignorance, but I have always been intrigued by the beauty of Class - A sound, as such, I am actively exploring a purchase. My question is based upon the power draw (even at idle) and the ability of a 15 Amp wall outlet to provide such without tripping. I have looked at the "big boys" from Pass XA160’s, Gryphons Essence Stereo & Antileon EVO to name a few. I do not have the option of installing a dedicated circuit in my unit. So, would I be ok if the electronics (including a DAC/preamp) were on the same circuit?

Thanks!!

128x128jeffreyw

Rare for TVs? Hair dryers pull serious wattage oddly enough. To the OP, if you are running the 150-200ish amps you will be fine, even up to 300/8ohms. If you jump to the very big boys a dedicated circuit would be the ticket. I think Pass recommends a dedicated circuit for the x350s etc.

I’d try and audition the company that did it first, Sugden. The Masterclass IA-4 is a very special unit. 

Hi Jeffrey

Welcome to the wonderful world of Class A.  You're gonna love it.

I have Krell KRS200s, possibly the most power hungry domestic amps ever built.  They draw more than 1kW per side from the wall.  I live in UK where the standard wiring is 13amp.  My Krells have been fine in two different houses on this.  They were also fine on the wimpy French electric system that was designed for the 120 volts they had in the old days before they upgraded.

So I concur with most of the advice here.  Just plug em in.

There are of course some who say a bigger power supply or power cord improves the sound.  Don't listen to them.  Amplifiers aren't like dogs.  They don't eat more food just because you give it to them.  An adequate power supply is all you need.