First, go to the forum search field and type in "dedicated." That will being up an extensive list of threads. If you still have questions, come back here and ask.
Installing a dedicated AC line
I'd like to plug my amplifier into an outlet with a dedicated AC line back to the breaker box. Any suggestions on which Romex line to use or other steps to reduce noise and improve isolation? What can I do between the box and the outlet to improve my system? I've searched some DIY forums without much help. Thanks.
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If you want audiophile wire, you can buy cryo-treated Romex from Ven Haus Audio. I haven't tried it, but I have tried a cryo'd interconnect and an AC outlet. I like the difference, so the Ven Haus wire might be worth it. Another good idea is a premium AC outlet, hospital or audio grade. And some people use isolation transformers on their dedicated lines--bigger ones, in the 3 to 5 KVA range. Ven Haus AC wire |
Go to Virtual Dynamics web site. Look at the BX armoned 10ga. cryoed house wire. They also had cryoed outlets and breaker at one time. This is what I use from my sub breaker box to my outlets in my dedicated ac line. I also have an isolated ground which really helps with noise. PS audio also makes some very nice outlets that I use in my HT system. Brian |
Couple of other hints--the amp rating you want to achieve and length of the run has an effect on the gauge of wire you use. For example, if you are using a 20 amp breaker (in order to acheive a 20 amp circuit), you need to use a heavier guage wire than standard romex. And if it's an unusually long run, an even heavier gauge still. Head to your local home store and browse a DIY book on electrical circuits--they generally have a listing of NEC tables (National Electrical Code) that you can reference. BTW, I ran dedicated 20A circuits to both my reference rig and my home theater, and there is huge upside. I didn't go for any of the exotic materials, basically because of the 80/20 rule. I was able to get huge gains (80% improvement) by just getting the dedicated circuit in place at a low cost--standard 12/2 romex and hubbel outlets (at 20% of the cost). |
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