Can a 220V device run off a 120V power source?

[dredd2929]

Can a device that is designed to run off a 220 V AC source be plugged into a 120 V socket and work properly? The reason I'm asking is because I have a headset amplifier that was made in Germany (a Medusa) that is designed to run off 220 V. I am using an adapter that was included to allow me to plug it into one of my power sockets here in my house (I live in the US). But doesn't that just change the shape of the plug? Or does the adapter actually convert the power to 220 V? I am having problems with the sound of my headset when I turn the amplifier volume past 25%, and I think it might be because it's recieving inadequate voltage.

Any thoughts on this?

 

[Bassyhead]

You say that the device was designed for 220V, therefore it's not going to work right on 120V. Some products are made for a range of voltages, such as switching power supplies. I'm not sure I understand what this plug or adapter you're speaking of does. You're not going to hurt it by trying it because you'll just be giving it half the voltage rating. Now, if it were designed for 120V and you plugged it into 220V that would be a different story .

 

[icarus4586]

Another thing to consider is that in Europe I believe the AC frequency is different from that used in the US. It's simple enough to convert between voltages with AC, I could almost see that being done with an adaptor plug, but I'm not sure what it would take to change the AC frequency.

 

[Peter]

AC frequency difference is not something any random device will choke on. Wrong voltage however does kill either the power supply or the device.

Many portable devices come with a universal power supply that covers anything from 100V to 240V and 50-60Hz. Just read the fine print on the underside of the power supply brick ...

 

[dredd2929]

I recieved a reply from Medusa's tech support and the guy said that the adapter included should provided the correct parameters for the amplifier, so that pretty much answered my question.

Thanks all for your replies.