I got tired reading the answers; some may have been correct(I apologize for being impatient). Having a "high current amp" is what you want. The dynamic range of the source, the type of music you're reproducing, will dictate how much "power" you really need. To properly reproduce the 1812 overture’s canon shot, you will need almost 800 watts per channel of high current power. It’s the dynamic range. Most of your listening, may require only a modest amount of power. It’s when the drummer hits those cymbals, kick drum, or something like this-that’s when you need that extra current, which transfers into wattage, or your amp will "clip", trying to reproduce that passage or note. Caveat-I love Class "A" bias amps. They’re always wide open just sitting there waiting for you to turn up the preamp. Think of it like a hot fuel dragster sitting at the line, waiting for the go light. It’s revved up to max RPM’s-then the clutch is let out!
More power for moderate listening levels?
Hi,
I can't seem to find good information regarding the effect of relatively high powered amps on low to moderate listening levels. I have a low powered class A amp that sounds wonderful at moderate volumes but not surprisingly shows signs of strain when cranked up. I am contemplating an upgrade that would bring much more power to solve this problem. However, since I don't play music really loud that often I'm wondering if the upgrade is really all that necessary. It would be worth it if the reserve power of the new amplifier improved sound quality at all levels.
Thanks for your help,
Brian
I can't seem to find good information regarding the effect of relatively high powered amps on low to moderate listening levels. I have a low powered class A amp that sounds wonderful at moderate volumes but not surprisingly shows signs of strain when cranked up. I am contemplating an upgrade that would bring much more power to solve this problem. However, since I don't play music really loud that often I'm wondering if the upgrade is really all that necessary. It would be worth it if the reserve power of the new amplifier improved sound quality at all levels.
Thanks for your help,
Brian