Log in

View Full Version : Secrets Of Amplifier And Speaker Power


Suhit Gupta
11-18-2004, 09:00 PM
<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/34579/109138.html' target='_blank'>http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/34579/109138.html</a><br /><br /></div><i>"As audio/video hobbyists, most of us grew up thinking that if we have an amplifier with 50 watts of rated output power into 8-ohm speakers, and that combination produces reasonably clean and loud music, then by doubling the amplifier power to 100 watts per channel, the system would then play twice as loud. Many readers likely still believe that. Not so. Although it's not the easiest thing to comprehend, doubling the amplifier power does not double the loudness. In the above example, the sound from the speakers would not be "twice as loud"; it would only be "a little louder," an increase of 3 decibels. How loud is that? Hearing tests with large groups of people have revealed that a one-decibel (1 dB) change in loudness is approximately the smallest audible step that the average listener can detect, so an increase of 3 dB most listeners term "slightly louder.""</i><br /><br />I have a pair of Carver 6 foot ribbon speakers, have had for several years now and I think I am ready for new ones. This is a good guide that will help those who don't know the details on how to buy good speakers and an amplifier to drive them.