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RE: Outfitting AC to 220V in USA

I live in Hawaii and have the opportunity to purchase an ASR Emitter I amplifier (220V version) for bi-amping. My AC is currently at 120V but my electrician tells me he can run a dedicated 220V line from my dedicated audio circuit breaker to power the 220V amplifier. The amplifier's power cord has a standard 15 amp IEC and has what I believe to be a German Shuko two prong plug.

I contacted a business that specializes in selling European wall outlets, transformers, and outlets. The representative recommended that I pick-up a transformer to convert 220V to 120V to power the 220V amplifier.

I would prefer not to purchase a transformer and would rather (if possible) have an electrician install a dedicated 220V line and install a Shuko wall outlet, that will enable me to use the amplifier's power cord and go directly to the wall outlet. Is this possible? If so, does the standard German AC power line or shuko power cord have two positives, one neutral and one gorund OR two positives and one ground OR two positives and a floating ground?

If a transformer is the only alternative, can you provide me with a brief explanation why. I do not know if I will have phase problems.

I would appreciate your thoughts to my questions. Thank you in advance for your assistance.
hawaiikid
tobias
1,534 posts
 
Can anyone tell me if European voltage is single-phase 220V? I thought our own 220V supply was twin-phase. Do I have this right, and if so does it make a difference for an application like the OP's?
alexanderj
139 posts
 
15 amp 220 lines are used in the US and have a standard NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturer's Association)confirmation different from the Shuko. Larger window air conditions commonly use this configuration plug. Any licensed electrican can install this code compliant circuit. Possibly an issue is whether the amp is setup for 60 cycle power. Best to check with the manufacturer on that.
alexanderj
139 posts
 
Obvious addendum: The amp's power cord would have to be fitted with the matching nema configuration plug.
hawaiikid OP
107 posts
 
An update ....... A technician who sells European plugs and outlets informed me that I should purchase a transformer to convert from 220V to 120V. I was told European or overseas power has only one phase as opposed to USA with 3 phases.

Thanks to all for your assistance and thoughtful replies.
tobias
1,534 posts
 
I suspect you may wind up going the transformer route. If you do, the amp may be starved for current on peaks if the transformer core is too small. To avoid this, get a tranny that is larger than the load seems to require. Two or three times larger is not excessive. In exchange, the extra isolation the transformer provides will help to quiet the background and enlarge the soundstage.
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