Here are some tips for determining the power output you need for your sound system:
- Know the power handling capacity (RMS rating) of your speakers. This is usually listed in watts on the specifications.
- As a general rule, choose an amplifier that can deliver 1.5 to 2 times the speakers’ RMS power handling. This allows headroom and avoids clipping.
- For example, if using speakers rated at 100 watts RMS, look for an amp that can deliver 150 to 200 watts per channel into the speaker impedance.
- Calculate the total power needed by adding up the recommended amp power per channel for all speakers.
- For large systems with separate amps for different speaker groups, add up the needed power per amp.
- Consider the venue size, music genre, and desired loudness when estimating power. More power may be needed for large venues or loud music.
- Add at least 20-30% more power capacity to allow for peaks and future expansion.
- Use online calculators to estimate power needs based on venue size and loudness goals.
- Test speakers and amps together at low volume to ensure proper impedance match and avoid damage before turning up.
- It’s better to have more power than you need rather than not enough, just don’t overdrive the amp into clipping.
So in summary, consider speaker power handling, venue and loudness needs, allow overhead, use an online calculator, and test at low volumes first. Selecting the right amp power for the speakers and application is key.
Citations:
[1] https://youtube.com/watch?v=YDnZ9We3QpQ
[2] https://www.crownaudio.com/how-much-amplifier-power
[3] https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Speaker-Wattage
[4] https://geoffthegreygeek.com/understanding-amplifier-power/
[5] http://rftech.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/24/~/determining-power-needed-for-speakers
[6] http://rftech.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/468/~/measuring-amplifier-output-power