does amp draw alot of power when volume is zero

If it is an AB amp, probably not much; if it is a Class A amp or biased well into Class A it will draw the full amount of current or a substantial portion of it. This is easy to tell, just feel the heat sinks when it has been on but not playing music, if they are cool or lukewarm leave it on all the time. If you burn your finger don't leave it on. Most amps draw a minimal amount of current and sound better left on.

Stanwal is right. My Krells act like frying pans even in standby.

If you are worried about wasting energy, and money, on idle music systems you should consider Class D amplifiers. These amplifiers are very efficient in use and at idle. My desktop integrated amplifier draws 15 watts at idle and sounds great.

For those who are actually curious, spend the 25$ on a 'kill a watt' power meter.

This meter will not only give you line voltage, but current, watts, VA AND therefore powerfactor.

A cheap test and part of my standard kit, though never left in system for long.

http://www.p3international.com/products/special/P4400/P4400-CE.html