2. amps-preamps
  3. 175638-129048

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
carlsbad's avatar
carlsbad
1,551 posts
 

@noske Just to be clear, I am not suggesting using a lamp cord to power your amp.  I use 10ga power cords.  I have a dedicated 10ga power circuit to my audio system.  My point is that the average power consumption by your amp, mine pulls 400 watts to produce 35 wpc, is irrelevant when sizing the power supply to your amp.  --Jerry

alfa100's avatar
alfa100
222 posts
 

I have Pass Labs Xa100.8 mono blocks. Installed 3 dedicated power lines. One for each mono block and the third for my digital gear. Made a big difference. Amps sound better.

jeffreyw's avatar
jeffreyw OP
298 posts
 

Thanks all for the education. I feel a little better now!!

jl1ny's avatar
jl1ny
419 posts
 

Fwiw- If your considering a class A amp Id run it directly into the wall. I find that conditioners mess with the dynamics on power hungry amps.

drbarney1's avatar
drbarney1
187 posts
 

At lease a SET tube amp draws constant current which is modulated through the output transformer. The current draw does not change - increase - when louder passages in the music play. Therefore, you need not have the high current carrying capacity of a push-pull or class B requires. I agree with the other answers telling you there is no need to worry about it.

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