Modern Power amplifiers, advanced technology. deliver lots of power in a light-weight chassis. You need sufficient power so that your system (speakers) are not strained, and abrupt changes in dynamic levels can be handled without distortion. Stereo amps provide the extra power needed for introducing equipment like subwoofer or other applications.
Introduction
Power amplifiers are circuits that convert a weak input signal into a more powerful signal. There are several equipment (such as mics, preamps, etc.) that are unable to produce a powerful audio signal on its own that can drive the cones within loudspeakers.
High-quality power amplifiers boost weak input signals from such devices to levels that are compatible with speaker systems, without distorting original audio signal waveform.
That is why a power amplifier is commonly used to drive a PA system’s passive speakers.
Here we’ll help you find the right power amp (at the wattage you need). Checkout the various value-for-money options that offers plenty of THUMP to your sound
Comparison Chart
[easyazon_link identifier=”B001W3BM24″ locale=”US” tag=”keytarhq04-20″ cart=”n”]Behringer Europower EP2000[/easyazon_link]: 2,000-Watt massive power, great sound quality, affordable price.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B00JLP1PYA” locale=”US” tag=”keytarhq04-20″ cart=”n”]Roland CUBE Street EX[/easyazon_link]: 4-Channel 50-Watt Battery Powered Amplifier, battery powered, lots of connection options
Best Power Amplifiers
Behringer Europower EP2000
Behringer is known for producing affordable products, and this one is no different. The Behringer EP2000 offers great sound quality, offers tons of power and low-noise operation ideal for gigs in medium sized venues, church services. you may even use it with mobile PA systems.
- [easyazon_link identifier=”B001W3BM24″ locale=”US” tag=”keytarhq04-20″ cart=”n”]Buy on Amazon[/easyazon_link]
Roland CUBE Street EX
Roland CUBE Street EX is a battery powered, flexible and portable powered amplifier.
Lightweight, yet powerful (50-Watt). Built-in effects. Dedicated volumes for each input.
One downside is that the output jacks are volume dependent, so it could potentially overdrive your output into whatever you’re hooking up to.
Offers lots of connection options, to plug in more instruments/equipment. Can be pole mounted, linked with another amp for full PA setup, and even output to powered speakers, pa system or mixer etc.
- [easyazon_link identifier=”B00JLP1PYA” locale=”US” tag=”keytarhq04-20″ cart=”n”]Buy on Amazon[/easyazon_link]
Power Amplifiers: Buying Guide
An audio power amplifier is basically an amplifier that amplifies low-power audio signals to a level suitable for driving loudspeakers. The power amplifier receives audio signal from the mixing board or signal processor and magnifies it, giving it the power it needs to drive your speakers and entertain your audience.
You need one to amplify the original sound signal so that it can comfortably drive a loudspeaker. In a typical audio playback chain, it usually is the final component.
In most audio / DJ systems, this original signal source typically comes from a pre-amp or a signal processor.
Understanding power amplifiers
Things to Watch Out For?
There are a couple of things that can alter the sound, especially of you operate the power amps outside their advertised power ratings. These are:
When considering a power amp, a good rule of thumb is to consider an amplifier that can deliver power equal to twice the speaker’s program rating. So if a speaker has a “nominal impedance” of 8 ohms and a program power rating of 350 watts, you should buy an amplifier that can produce 700 watts into an 8-ohm load. For a stereo pair of speakers, the amplifier should ideally be rated at 700 watts per channel into 8 ohms. Using an amp with some extra “headroom” (difference between the normal operating level of an amplifier, and the maximum level that the amp can pass without distorting) will help assure that only clean, undistorted power gets to your speakers.
Important Features
Here are some of the important features found on most of these power amps:
- Multiple inputs for more flexibility to plug in anything and play anywhere
- Several system setup configurations
- Integrated crossovers and switch-mode power supply for better sound
- Built-in limiters to protect your speakers
KeytarHQ editorial team includes musicians who write and review products for pianists, keyboardists, guitarists & other musicians. KeytarHQ is the best online resource for information on keyboards, pianos, synths, keytars, guitars and music gear for musicians of all abilities, ages and interests.
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