2. amps-preamps
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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
russ69's avatar
russ69
3,579 posts
 

You know the difference between a 400 watt amp and a 200 watt amp is only 3db. Just use the power output as a guide not as an absolute.

nwres's avatar
nwres
271 posts
 

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.

kennyc
2,005 posts
 

+1 @nwres

@pryso - it would be much easier for us to help if we knew which speaker, or better yet which speaker and amp paring was disappointing.

If you want to figure it out yourself, you’ll have to be able to read/understand the impedance/phase vs frequency plot and efficiency of your speakers.

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