Is it possible a 20 amp outlet can make a big difference in SQ?

@steakster thanks, makes me feel a whole lot better

I had three dedicated 20amp circuits run to my living room when I needed to upgrade the main panel. It was a substantial improvement over the two regular circuits previously, quieter noise floor, better dynamics, more cohesive sound.

I didn't go crazy, quality outlets, copper 12ga wire, good Breakers, and quality grounding. It made a bigger difference than some component upgrades.

@dmac67 what gauge wire is run from your circuit breaker to your outlet?

I doubt changing the amp rating of the outlet, but keeping all other things the same (brand, line,, etc) would matter by itself.

There’s two things I immediately think about:

• All 15A outlets in the US are rated to be on 20A circuits. To do that they have to have the internal conductors as thick as a 20A socket.
• Some manufacturers improve economy of scale by making the 15A and 20A outlets identical behind the faceplate. Same conductors, wipers and plastics.

If you aren’t going to re-use that 15A outlet may be fun to take a hand grinder/multitool (i.e. Dremel) to the face and remove it to see if it doesn’t have the T shaped wipers of the 20A units.

The reason for the multi-rating is areas like a kitchen, where you may have multiple appliances going. They may each be under 15A, but by using a 20A circuit you can minimize breaker tripping.

The 20A plugs are usually reserved for commercial settings and 1-2 outlet circuits where the electrician wants to indicate "this is where you can plug in the hotel vacuum. "