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What makes a 20A IEC rated for 20 amps?

What makes a 20A IEC rated for 20 amps?
I now the blades go in a different direction but are the blades thicker to carry more current?
I ask this because I have a component that I am demoing that has a 20A IEC on the back. I have some pretty pricey power cords available with 15A Furutech NCF fittings. A 20A Furutech replacement 20A IEC connector sell for almost $300! Or I could always use a 20-15A IEC adapter. But that would add a (cheapo) connection.

So how about if I just change the IEC in the unit to a 15A Furutech NCF about $80. Hence the question.

ozzy
128x128ozzy
ozzy's avatar
ozzy OP
3,650 posts
 
Bob,

Thanks for the info. I am using the adapter to demo, but I was thinking of either changing the power cord IEC end or the IEC in the unit.

Is there an actual difference in power transfer with a 20A IEC connector? They look to be about the same thickness but it is hard to tell.

ozzy

bsmg
152 posts
 
As far as I know, it's just the gauge of the cable itself; I have 15A and 20A IEC power cords and they look identical other than the thickness of the insulation which I assume indicated heavier gauge wire in the higher rated one.
folkfreak's avatar
folkfreak
1,149 posts
 
20A IEC are used to enable a more secure and reliable connection to the component. They do not need to be used with 20A rated plugs (which as you observe have different blade orientation). Any power cord manufacturer can supply a power cord terminated IEC C-19 (20A) with a normal wall plug.

Use of adapters is fine (I have a nice Voodoo one that is very reasonable price and as far as I can tell doesn't harm performance http://voodoocable.net/product/15-amp-to-20-amp-iec-adapter/ but don't go changing the IEC inside the component -- that's just making it a oddball chimera and harming resale
ozzy's avatar
ozzy OP
3,650 posts
 
bsmg,

That's kind of what I think. As long as the cable can conduct 20A then the connector shouldn't matter. As long as it is of high quality.

folkfreek,

I here you about resale value, but IEC's are relative easy to change, if you can get at them.

ozzy
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Ozzy, I think this is a really great question. I had never even considered it, and I have been in the hobby for 45 years. I can’t answer it, but it seems a totally original, and thoughtful, question that is a respite from all of the repetitive, “Should I buy a turntable?” And “What’s spinnin’?” threads.
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