The question on if the OP needs more watts to drive more volume is an easier question to answer than I first realized and touched on by some but not specifically called out. The Integrated Amp has fully functional power meters. At 70 % volume, what is the amp putting out per channel? If it’s a ton of watts, 70 % of the 100 watts then looking at a different amp might make sense. I’d guess it’s far lower and the amp can put more out if the volume is cranked further. If that still isn’t delivering the volume the OP is looking for, then really honing in on the speakers sensitivity and amps power supply / amperage along with watts, synergy with all the gear in the chain, specific attention with matching the gain levels of the gear would be the way to go. Steve Huff did an extensive review, tried at least 3 different speakers with it, concluded the 3200 would likely drive 95 % of speakers out there. He concluded it’s not a beast like a Coda, Krell, Pass but should be able to drive most speakers.
What actually determines volume power? Is it watts?
I have a Yamaha AS-3200 amp. It sounds beautiful and has a really good open sound. The problem is I like my music loud since I live alone and typically I have the volume 70% and with some recordings it is not high enough. I need a amp that has more power/volume.
The AS-3200 is 200 watts at 8 ohms. I see many amps, even much more expensive ones (like the Yamaha M-5000), are also at around 200 watts per a channel at 8 ohms. I am going by 8 ohms for my speakers and also the worse case scenarios. Does this mean if I had a more expensive class AB amp like the M-5000 I would still be listening at 70% volume and getting the same power/loudness? If not, then what actually determines the volume power if not watts?
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- 58 posts total
- 58 posts total