Tweaker's Asylum

Posted by Todd Krieger (A) on January 20, 2003 at 18:44:30

After finding out the BrickWall surge protectors were basically re-badged ZeroSurge units, I was curious to see a true 20-amp two-outlet model from ZeroSurge, which BrickWall does not offer. The ZeroSurge 2R20 uses a heavier 12AWG power cord, a 20-amp "perpendicular blade" plug, and a 20 amp duplex receptacle. The perpendicular blade plug *cannot* be used with a standard 15-amp mains receptacle. It is listed as a pound heavier than the 15-amp units, sold as the 2RAUD by BrickWall and 2R15 by ZeroSurge. (The 20-amp unit feels noticeably heavier as well.)

In comparing the 15-amp and 20-amp units, whatever choke-off of current that occurred with the 15-amp unit seems to be ameliorated with the 20-amp unit. This is most-notable during dynamic swings and heavy bass passages. The system does not seem as strained during louder passages with the 20-amp unit utilized.

The 20-amp version of this surge protector is available only from ZeroSurge, and requires a 20-amp line/wall receptacle. But it does not choke off current as much as the 15 amp units, and hence allows a more-dynamic presentation from equipment where the surge protection is utilized.