When you buy a brand new pair of loudspeaker, you probably already own some stereo equipment including a power amplifier. However, you may be wondering whether the specifications are sufficient to drive your new loudspeakers properly. First of all, let’s start with the common misconception that an underpowered amplifier is always safer than an amplifier with more power than your speakers actually require. This is actually a false assumption because an amplifier under heavy load can easily destroy your loudspeakers by going into clipping.
You should basically choose an amp that can output twice the power of your speakers’ actual power rating. You can obtain these values from the manufacturer of your loudspeakers. One possibility would also be to ask your dealer or the manufacturer whether your existing equipment is compatible with the new loudspeaker you bought.
One particular advantage of having lots of power reserves is that your amplifier will never be stressed. This results in effortless playback of even the most dynamic audio material. For example, home theater soundtracks often contain very loud passages that require lots of instant power.
If you have decided to buy a new amplifier, there are tons of choices starting from lower cost AV amplifiers up to more exotic tube amplifier designs. I would pick a product that not only works well with your loudspeakers but also matches your budget and your personal listening taste. A great tip for budget audiophiles is to get a studio amplifier. Studio equipment is generally very reasonably priced when compared with boutique audio equipment. For example, you get a very nice power amplifier from Behringer that will cost easily rival multi-thousand dollar home amplifiers while costing only less than $300.
If you are interested in reading more about loudspeaker and audio topics including tips on finding the best speaker repair kits, please check out loudspeaker-building-guide.com
Go to the Table of Contents to see all the topics covered so far.
Click music collectibles to go to the latest entry on this site.