Dedicated circuits

@8th-note

You’re definitely on the right track, and probably more knowledgeable than most. When planning for audio AC circuits, it’s best when you can calculate your amperage capacity needs (in advance if possible). When it comes to audio needs, metering definitely helps in this area, with a knowledge of electricity as well. Establishing four dedicated 20 amp circuits for one’s audio system may be considered overkill for some, but may be a requirement for others. Yes, when lights are dimming when playing your system, there is some kind of starvation taking place, and in need of an inspection, improvement and probably upgrading.

I don’t claim to know everything, but I’m at least very familiar with grounding (for lightning especially), bonding, and wiring current capacity. I would agree with you on voltage drop for long distances of wiring. Those voltage-drop tables can easily be found on the internet, but probably not necessary in the home environment. Many audio-enthusiasts tend to favor delivering AC to their amplifiers via 10 AWG (as I too do the same, and have implemented it as well), but many electricians may not want to provide that for you, as I believe it doesn’t typically pass code (10 AWG on a 15 or 20 amp circuit breaker). I think someday someone needs to update the code for this application, as they have in the past with/for balanced AC power. It’s very easy to go to extremes when providing AC power for audio systems, but sometimes it’s simply not always necessary.

Do We Need Hospital-Grade Receptacles?

What exactly does "Hospital Grade" mean?

@bigtwin 

Thank you for verification of my comments. Sadly it won't make much difference on this forum.

I realize that, but sometimes I like to give it another try. It's also all about educating one on the subject too. I'm still learning myself, but like to sometimes pass along what I have learned.

OP,

Just out of interest did you notice any change when you swapped the 30a breakers for 20a? 
 

I don’t remember if I have 15a or 20a. I thought everyone actually knows it has nothing to do with the actual current required by components. At least for normal systems.

@cey Wrote:

man, thats cool. i been thinkin of doing that for a good while. i wont have the time any soon, but hopefully  ill get around to it next year. 

See article below:

Mike

Does anyone know of an amplifier that would require greater than a 15 amp curcuit?  By this I mean one that even for a mil sec would draw 15 amps?

Unless of course it became defective hence the need for the breaker. Likely a 15 amp breaker will do for any amplifier. Likely the safeest.