How is current measured?


i always read about how certain speakers (like maggies) need high current amplifiers to really shine. i am new to this and was wondering how is current measured? can i look at the specs from different amplifiers to see which have the highest current? is an extra high current detrimental in anyway?
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Showing 1 response by zoya

I will give you some examples how current is related to the power rating of the amp and to the speaker load. You can determin how much current (I) your amp can supply from the spec of max. Power (W) into specified load (R). W=I^2 x R. So if the spec says 200W into 8 Ohm and 400W into 4 Ohm means that whan load drops and more current is needed your amp can deliver 400 divided by 4 = 100, sq. rt. of 100 = 10 AMP.
However, if the spec says 200W into 8 Ohm and 300W into 4 Ohm - using the formula above we only get 8.66 AMP from the amp when the load drops and more current is needed.
Be aware that if the amp spec only says 200W into 8 Ohm load - and nothing else - the calculated current of 5 AMPs may be close to the amp's limit and when load drops let's say to 6 Ohms - the amp will only deliver 5x5x6=150 WATTs of power insted of rated 200 WATTs.
I hope this helps.