Power for my primary Mc system

[Matt Lan]

Building a new home, and with so many decisions on deck, after lots of thoughts and 'planning' over many years - I now feel rushed and uninformed!

Grateful for input here on power for my MC system:

For the pair of 501’s I am planning to plug straight into the wall outlet(s), I will have whole home surge protection at the panel.

• I assume 1 single 20A dedicated line is sufficient for both amps? Based on Dan’s current draw measurements from a long-ago post, I think so?
• Silly question, but can I run just one 20A duplex receptacle that will allow me to plug in both amps?
• I have never thought much about power cords, but I also assume I can use a standard (15A) power cord design to plug in to the 20A receptacle?

For all the sources, pre-amp, TV etc. was thinking about a good quality power bar – I currently have a PS Dectet, but looking into the Shunyata PS8.

• Assume I should run a second 20A dedicated line for this?
• If I go with something like the PS8, I believe it is rated for 20A.
• As with the amp question above, I assume the PS8 would conceivably be connected to a 20A outlet using a 15A power cord? I cannot imagine sources and pre-amp drawing anywhere near that load BTW.

Thanks in advance for thoughts – including good suggestions for receptacles and power cords.

I have only ever used stock PC’s… so thinking of an upgrade to something like VENOM series PC’s as an example of my general price point.

Cheers

Matt

[jameslrock]

I have multiple 20 amp outlets for both the family room home theater and the living room main system. I found that while the electrician was here putting in the sub panel and running the wire it was not much more to add more for future expansion. Also when I was pondering an upgrade of cables I found that power cords were the foundational upgrade. I noticed a difference with power cords more so than anything else. Maybe because I went with power cords first? You are asking the right questions and leaning toward the right answers.

[Cohibaman]

No reason not to run all 20 amp receptacles. The difference in price is negligible. Also, run an extra receptacle or two. You’ll kick yourself at some point if you don’t.

[jdandy]

Matt.......You will have no issues powering both MC501 power amplifiers from a single dedicated 20 amp circuit. The MC501 draws a maximum of 6.6A at full rated output. The preamplifier and ancillary gear will be adequately powered from a second 20 amp dedicated circuit. I would suggest you run a third 20 amp dedicated outlet in the vicinity of where you may want a subwoofer positioned, if not now then perhaps in the future. It's much easier to install these circuits while the walls are open. Ensure the dedicated circuits are on the same phase in your service panel. An electrician will understand what to do when you give him that instruction. Do not share any neutral wires or grounds between the dedicated outlets and the panel. In other words, go straight from the dedicated outlets to the panel. Use #12AWG solid copper wire for run lengths less than 50 feet. Use #10AWG solid copper wire for runs that exceed 50 feet in total length.

I also suggest the minimum grade receptacle to use would be a hospital grade outlet such as a Hubble or Pass & Seymour 20 amp hospital grade outlet like the one in the photo below. This receptacle allows a 15 amp or 20 amp male cord connector to be used and provides very specific and secure clamping. These receptacles are also available in Decora style if that is your choice. Hope this helps.

[John Jordan]

Matt-

Congratulations on your new home! There is nothing like new and there is nothing that compares to building from the ground up. Enjoy the happy times ahead!

Well, most probably a single 20 amp circuit will be fine. However, while everything is opened up, it makes good sense to run another 20 amp line. You can have two or three duplexes on each. IMO, a much better, less expensive and less cluttered solution to a "power bar." To be real anal, you can use one circuit just for the amps. Or, and split the difference; one amp on each and other components broken up accordingly.

The IEC connector on a component is different for 15 or 20 amp. The wall outlet for 20 amp is pretty much the same as a 15 amp except 20 amp has a horizontal cut on the hot line to accommodate a true 20 amp need.

Best wishes on this journey. Nothing like building your own!

[John Jordan]

Well Dan, your reply went up while I was composing. It is certainly more detailed and exactly what Matt needs to know. Also noted should I ever build another home.

[Matt Lan]

Wanted to thank everyone for the great and helpful answers and confirmation. I had a serious family medical issue that prevented me from replying sooner - I don't want to appear ungrateful for the assistance!

Cheers

Matt

[jdandy]

Matt.......Hope the medical issue is under control. It's never good news to hear that.

[miner]

Sending good vibes toward you and family Matt

[BlueSky]

Originally Posted by jdandy

Matt.......

This picture begs the question: Which is the "correct" way to install the duplex outlet? With the ground connection pointing up or pointing down? I've always installed them pointing down and seeing them installed pointing up gives me the willies.

First world issues I guess or I've got too much time on my hands.............