AC Power Switch - why switch hot and neutral

[suhr_rodney]

Some amp makers use a DPDT AC power switch to make/break the hot AND neutral lines, whereas others only make/break the hot. This could help limit AC exposure in the chassis and may provide an easy junction point for the builder. Any other thoughts on why it might be beneficial to make/break the hot as well as the neutral?

[mpeg2]

When you run into (or actually out of) a miswired socket, it can make quite a difference...

Rich

[suhr_rodney]

When you run into (or actually out of) a miswired socket, it can make quite a difference...

Rich How so? If the incoming AC polarity is reversed? Are you assuming neutral could be tied to chassis ground and therefore pose a danger even when the amp is turned off?

[JJman]

Old amps have non-polarized 2 contact power plugs. That means you need to break both leads with the switch to stop the hot line from the power transformer 100% of the time. Using this type of switch on a polarized plug-equipped amp (or 3 pronger) adds protection against mis-wired house wall jacks (as mentioned.)