A question on amp matching


I'm looking for a new stereo amp.  Among all the other specs, how important is gain in addition to power output at a rated speaker impedance?

I just auditioned an amp at the low end of recommended power for my speakers, but it also seemed to have lower rated gain than other amps I've used.  It was disappointing for output level, bass extension, and dynamics.  So should I be looking for both greater power rating and higher gain?

Obviously I'm looking for general guidelines since I omitted specific details of the components in question.

 

pryso

Showing 1 response by nwres

What speakers are you trying to drive? The impedance plot and efficiency of your speakers will shed some light on what amps might sound correct.

I would not enjoy the sound of a modest ARV receiver driving, for example, Focal Kanta 3's. On paper it might look like it should work, but the 8 Ohm nominal and 91 db efficiency rating is not the full story on these speakers and what you need to make them sound right.