2. misc-audio
  3. 192681-2195

Good outlet for amplifiers

I have a circuit in my listening room for my amplifiers and it uses a dedicated ground.  Right now I have two duplex outlets connected - and I use the primary outlet (first on the run) for the amps (reserve secondary for subwoofers if needed).  I would like to install better quality outlets for this - two duplex, set up for a dedicated ground.  I could see spending $100-$200 per duplex, if that gets me something decent.  I want it to grip the plugs well.  Recommendations?

PS - I'm running two VAC Phi-200 amplifiers (200w tube amps, KT88)

peter_s
erik_squires
16,300 posts
 

I’ve found that at least half of the issues with plug grip is the plug. A high quality hospital grade plug can really improve this. I’ve had very good luck with Leviton, and additionally, the 90 degree versions can really help you reclaim some floor space.

Using the combination of that with a commercial grade/tamper resistant outlet gave me tremendous results and was as much as I wanted to spend. Of course, others will recommend hospital grade or better outlets as well. Keep in mind that tamper resistant (TR) is now a requirement as well.

Lastly, you may like these plates to ensure your plug stays immobile.

carlsbad2's avatar
carlsbad2
1,738 posts
 

Like Erik said, the Leviton hospital grade grabs the plug so hard it isn't easy to plug into it.  

I'd skip the tamper resistant feature.

Jerry

thecarpathian's avatar
thecarpathian
4,770 posts
 

Have any of you guys installed outlets with the ground at the top (upside down) instead of the standard way? Seems this would aid in keeping the plug in.

peter_s OP
1,348 posts
 

@erik_squires Are you saying that the issue is the plug rather than the receptacle?  I've got good power cords (e.g. Shunyata Alpha) and they are not tightly gripped.  Thanks.

ghdprentice
7,191 posts
 

I used hospital grade outlets when I first installed my direct lines. Then as an experiment to see if it made a difference I swapped one for a Furutech GTX-D NCF(R) Ultimate Nano-Crystal Rhodium-Plated AC Duplex Receptacle. Once I heard the difference, I immediately ordered another one for my other direct line. I found them to be a very worthwhile investment. 

 

I got them from Amazon ($199):

 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017LTCI5M/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

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