Watt’s That? Clarifying Amplifier Ratings & SPL Specs
We buy a new loudspeaker with a higher power rating and it’s louder. All things being equal, this is true. But it’s important to remember that wattage isn’t the only variable in play.
We buy a new loudspeaker with a higher power rating and it’s louder. All things being equal, this is true. But it’s important to remember that wattage isn’t the only variable in play.
The many occurrences of this claim are “variations on a theme,” and one could never hope to definitively address every unique set of circumstances; however, an evaluation of the underlying concepts provides helpful context.
How normal amplifier testing procedures can lead to inappropriate design choices. (A downloadable audio version of this article is also available.)
The first step in any experiment is to figure out what we need to measure and set up a series of tests to gather empirical data. (A downloadable audio version of this article is also available.)
Taking advantage of a rapidly growing slate of options to effectively drive smaller-scale sound systems as well as instrument amps (and more) without electrical power. (A downloadable audio version of this article is also available.)
Working with a young team in addressing some of the unforeseen challenges involved with taking a traditionally acoustic genre into a natural amphitheater configuration.
Even though two-channel designs are the most popular form factor, the majority of sound reinforcement systems aren’t stereo. But having two amplifier channels in the same box can provide some other benefits. So, “What’s the carrot?”
Why would anyone want to spend money on an external preamp, let alone several? Here are some reasons why…
The present state of power amplifiers, the result of decades-long design trends in delivering vastly increased power density, sophisticated DSP and much more.
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