Integrated Amp selection Criteria

rosenshine -- Tue, 01/26/2010 - 08:57

Gentlemen,
Can you guide me to some Amp selection criterias? What ratings to specifically look for, etc.
I know a Speaker, drivers, source etc. match is important but in general, if i want to go and test an amp, what basic selection criteria specs should i keep in mind based on which time should be invested.
Any reference links, posts, documents on various specs that i can read and enhance my knowledge on would be greatle appreciated.
Shekhar

Robert Harley -- Tue, 01/26/2010 - 11:17

You should match the amplifier's output power to the speaker's sensitivity. Every 3dB increase in speaker sensitivity (say, from 87dB to 90dB) is equivalent to doubling the amplifier power. When choosing amplifier power, you should also take into account the room size and how loudly you plan on listening. I cover these topics in detail in Introductory Guide to High-Performance Audio Systems.

You should also consider the amplifier's power rating into 4 ohms, and not just into 8 ohms. An amplifier that can double its power output when driving 4 ohms (compared to its 8-ohm rating) will sound significantly more powerful in real-world conditions than an amplifier that barely increases its power into 4 ohms.

rosenshine -- Sun, 03/07/2010 - 01:22

Thanks Robert, but where can I find or download or buy this guide from: Introductory Guide to High-Performance Audio Systems.?

Fly and High...
SM

rosenshine -- Sun, 03/07/2010 - 01:31

One thing more Rob, which book should I start with; my intent is to get the basic fundamentals and concept in order and my start would be with an Audio system versus a Home Theatre.

I see three of your publications; thanks a ton in advance for all your time

Fly and High...
SM

costas (not verified) -- Thu, 03/04/2010 - 13:22

My speakers (sensitivity 90db) are driven by a tube preamp and two tube power amps (in bywiring mode) of 45 w per chanel. As this system is very old (14 years) I plan to replace the pre and the power amps. One idea is to replace them with an integrated amp and I would like to know under what terms this would be an upgrade of my system or in any case the three components are better than one integrated.
Thanks, Costas.

Robert Harley -- Sat, 03/06/2010 - 10:06

What are your current electronics that you're considering replacing?

Ignacio (not verified) -- Sun, 03/07/2010 - 20:15

I'm on the same boat but I would love to learn how to match components form end to end (source-interconnects-preamp/amp-speaker cables-speakers) so that the system sound well together. I'm interested in the Rotel RA-1520, the Roksan K2, the Creek 5350 Classic I've owned previous versions of these brands either as preamp/power combo or as integrated and I liked them all
However, I always struggle with finding the components to match the integrated. When they are good, they are too expensive and when they are bad, the whole chain suffers. I would like to have a set which is of even quality and where the whole is better than its parts for a given price range. Should I select all components of the same brand?
enough babbling.. what set of components (CD, int. amp., speakers and cables) would you guys suggest for a medium size room (9 ft ceiling, all carpet, 15 ft by 15 ft, for listening at normal to slightly above normal levels where you can still carry a conversation, with defined and tight bass as well as smooth highs that don't hurt your ears, and where you can listen for 1-2 hours without a hitch? Forgot, I listen to 25% jazz - 25% country&classic rock - 25% classical - 25% heavy metal. My budget is around 3500 USD
thanks for the great magazines you publish, for the awesome new website, and most of all, for the passion you show for music reproduction. The quality and dedication of your work during these tough 2 years of economic recession was an example that you're not in it for the money but for the art - Congrats on the 200th edition by the way..

SundayNiagara -- Sun, 03/07/2010 - 20:48

Start with the source and work your way back.