2. amps-preamps
  3. 124283-79898

WHAT'S THE DEAL WITH WATTS?

I'm considering acquiring a new (for me) integrated, under $2k, to drive my KEF full range speakers. They are very efficient (93db) , 4ohm and rated for 50 - 200 watts.  It seems that a good amp with 80 or 100 watts per channel at 8 ohms will take these speakers to any volume I'd want to experience in my medium sized living room.  So what advantage/benefit in sound am I going to get with 150 -200 watts, or more, per channel? Is it worth spending more for extra power that will never really be demanded?  
larstusor

Showing 3 responses by lowrider57

lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
Going from 100 wpc to an amp with 150 to 200 wpc/8 ohms is not a significant increase in power. In terms of SPL, with 200w you would gain 3dB.

A high current amp with 80 or 100 wpc would be a better performer than simply going for higher wattage. High current amps will have better control over impedance demands from the speakers, in your case 4 ohm speakers.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
I should add that since your speaker's impedance goes as low as 3 to 4 ohms, an amp that doubles it's power rating would provide you with high current. For example, an amp rated at 100 wpc/8 ohms, 200 wpc/4 ohms.
The plus side of your KEF's is the high sensitivity of 93dB, so I would say you don't need to look for a high wattage SS amp.
You could also try tubes, although the reviews I've read are using SS.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
When you have extra power it fills out the sound with more authority with more powerful bass.
True, ebm, but you're using a Pass amp with high power (watts), and also high current. An excellent design.
There are many amps which can produce a high amount of wattage and do not have quality power supplies. So, not all watts are created equally.


More to discover