A power audio amplifier is an electronic device used to increase the magnitude of power of an input signal by taking the electrical signal and reproducing a similar waveform at the output through an external power source. The power of the input signal is increased to a level high enough to drive loads of output devices such as speakers or headphones. Power amplifiers are found in various sound systems, including public address or home stereo sound systems. There are also power audio amplifiers that are used specifically for musical instruments, such as guitar amplifiers.
How To Find the Right Audio Amplifier For You
A watt is the measure of the energy output that a power amplifier provides. It is important when choosing an amplifier to ensure that your receiver is rated to handle the amplifier's energy output. Otherwise, you risk damaging the receiver. One tip when selecting an amplifier for a PA speaker is to pick one that can deliver up to twice the amount of power to the speaker's program rating, but no higher.
Another term that you will likely see when shopping for your amplifier is impedance: The measure of electrical resistance of your components. It is measured in ohms. Speakers generally have an ohm rating of between 4 and 8. So you would want an amplifier with no higher of an impedance than 8 ohms for a 4-ohm speaker, or 16 ohms for an 8-ohm speaker.
If you select an audio amplifier that is not powerful enough for your speakers, you will have to adjust your volume higher, which places the amplifier at risk for overheating.
Types of Audio Amplifiers at CCI Solutions
CCI Solutions offers a variety of live sound amplifiers from your favorite brands, such as Behringer, Bose, Crown, Lab.gruppen, L-Acoustics, QSC, Rolls, and TOA Electronics. We also have a friendly and knowledgeable sales staff who can help you select the amplifier that is right for your audio system. Contact us today for more information on all of our audio and sound equipment.