Amplifiers Buying Advice
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We're here to help you buy a new amplifier. We've got advice and information about all the latest amplifiers, and we provide independent advice on the features and specifications that you need to look for.Selecting a suitable amplifier for your audio or home theater system can be a daunting task in the wide array of available products.
As it is an important part of your system, so you must choose it carefully. To choose the right amplifier, you must consider following points:
- Check that the amplifier you are buying has Dolby Digital decoder or not.
- Look for DTS decoder as well.
- Check how many inputs and outputs your amplifier has. Greater number of inputs and outputs increase switching capability.
- Check that the amplifier can operate properly into low impedance loads or not.
Here are some points in detail.
Type
There are two type of amplifiers. Surround amplifier and Stereo amplifier. A Stereo amplifier is a conventional two-channel amplifier that may be used to play music recorded in two channels, such as CDs, LP records, and audiocassettes in stereo. On the other hand a surround amplifier is capable of processing up to six channels of sound.
Impedance
It is an electrical property. A low impedance draws a high current flow from the source, while a high impedance draws a little. This means that speakers with a low impedance are more difficult for an amplifier to drive. Lower impedance is in the range of 6-8 ohms.
Most consumer amplifiers are made to conform to standard expectations for input and output impedances. Most inputs accept impedance matches from 47k to 100k ohms, and outputs are rated for 4 ohms (most automotive speakers) and/or 8 ohms (most home speakers).
Power
An amplifier's power is dependent on the voltage applied to it, and the current flow it can sustain without breakdown or overheating in the presence of a normal load. Moreover, these functions must be performed without incurring any form of perceived distortion. Fortunately, modern electronics makes it possible to meet these requirements without great expense.
An important thing to find out is how much power is required for the specific speaker and application involved.
- To provide for moderate bass enhancement with speakers - about 30 to 100 watts per channel is required.
- To create a big bass sound - about 80 to 250 watts per channel is reasonable.
- To risk arrest for noise pollution with multiple 12" to 18" woofers - 300 to 1000 watts per channel should do it.
Inputs and outputs
It is good to know the number of inputs and outputs your amplifier has. Greater number of inputs and outputs increase switching capability and you can connect your amplifier to subwoofers and other speakers easily.
Colour
You can choose from different colour amplifiers to match your HiFi system.
