Attributes of Audio Amplifiers
January 5, 2008
Amplifiers are mostly meant for amplifying audio output of a musical device. It can be a CD player or DVD player or a home theatre system. Audio amplifier is an electronic device which has the ability to convert small amount of audio energy into large amount of audio energy by reproducing audio signals. Electricity is mandatory for accessing these audio amplifiers and therefore they are known as ‘Electronic Amplifiers’. Before buying an amplifier, it is best to understand or have some idea about the basic attributes of amplifiers.
Some of the vital attributes have been explained in brief:
- Gain
Gain is the ratio between input and output power of audio which is always measured using a unit called ‘decibel’.
- Output Dynamic Range
A range between the highest and lowest useful power output levels which is mostly indicated in decibels. In most cases, output noise has more influence on the lowest useful level which is termed as ‘amplifier dynamic range’.
- Bandwidth
The variation between the upper and lower half power points is termed as ‘bandwidth’ of an amp. This bandwidth is shortly used as BW which is usually known as "?3 dB BW".
- Rise Time
It is a time taken for changing from 10% and 90% of its final audio level while driven by a step input.
- Slew Rate
It is the highest rate of change of output variable and it is measured in VPS broadly known as Volts per Second.
- Noise
An interruption in output audio during the amplification process is Noise. No one likes it but the same time it can’t be avoided while you use electrical amps. Noise level is indicated mostly in decibels.
- Efficiency
Efficiency is one of the must-know attribute of an audio amp, which is a measure of how much power input, is required to the power output of an audio amplifier.
It is suggested to understand these attributes to some extent to make a rational purchase. When you know these attributes you can bargain with the manufacturer or shop owner to get your choice in affordable prices. To be on the safer side, check the features available in distinct models and brands and after that take a decision to buy an ideal audio amplifier.
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