What constitutes a safe operating voltage level in most AV equipment?

The safe operating voltage level for most AV equipment is indeed typically 120V or lower. This voltage level is standard in residential and commercial environments, especially in North America, where many AV devices are designed to operate efficiently and safely without risking electric shock or equipment failure.

AV equipment, including audio/video receivers, projectors, and other consumer electronics, are engineered to function optimally within this voltage range. Operating at higher voltages, such as 240V, can pose a risk of electrical hazards and exceed the design specifications of many common AV devices, leading to potential damage or malfunction.

For professional gear, while 48V is common in certain contexts such as microphones and some types of audio equipment (like phantom power), it does not apply broadly across most AV equipment. Similarly, while high-performance systems may have components that look like they could operate at higher voltages, 300V is generally associated with specialized applications rather than standard AV equipment.

Overall, maintaining the 120V or lower standard ensures the safety and functionality of the equipment in everyday use.