I'm sorry it has taken me so long to get back to you, but playing our system at 00dB got me a broom, then a mop and finally the vacuum cleaner and dust rag Monday night. Tuesday was spent with the inlaws and Wednesday with my family. By the way, Merry Christmas all.

Half way through my test I started to realize that what I was doing would be only be conclusive to my particular system, but then again may be of some help to others anyway. I saw that there would be a lot of contributing factors that would change everyone's individual data. Things such as source line input voltage (mine 124 volts), source material, processing, and above all speakers (size, number of drivers, rated watts handling and efficiency).

So, I guess I'll start with telling you what is in my system that is pertinent to the test. I'm runnning a 7.1 Reference Paradigm setup consisting of 2-40s for mains, a CC center, 4-20s surrounds and a PW 2200 sub. The TV is a 36" Sony XBR.

With the TV, 950 and Panamax all at standby mode I had a reading of .2 amps. Turning on the 950 triggers the panamax to energize and also brings on the 770. With the audio at idle it draws 2.5 amps. Turning on the TV and we jump to 4.2 amps. Ok, time for a little source material.

My normal listening volume range for DVD source material is usually between -15dB and -05dB depending on the recording and my mood. I decide to use -10dB (average) and ear piercing 00dB (way too loud!) as my reference marks to use for this test.

Something to note here. This system is set up in what is normally considered a formal living room and was supplied with only one circuit. So, the sub has had to go on that circuit too, but as you will see, it's not too much of a concern for this interim setup.

Ok, at -10dB with evreything running the load was only 6.5 amps. At freaking the cats and wife 00dB my system only musters a 10.2 amp draw. Of which .7 amps is the sub that isn't going through the panamax.

So, in conclusion SpOoNmAn. I guess we can say I'm safe. On the other hand, if your driving bigger and/or less efficient speakers, the resulting amp draws will increase proportionally.

This was fun! Oh, and my wife would like your address. I think she wants to tell you something.

Good day and Happy New Year.


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Bill