How to Pick Amps for a Home Stereo
- 1). Obtain the power ratings of the amplifiers you're considering. Compare them to one another, and any existing equipment you may have. A higher wattage rating does not necessarily equal a superior quality amplifier. A high-powered amplifier may also be difficult to control. If you normally listen to music at fairly low, "TV-volume" levels, an amplifier of 100 watts would require its volume set to a very low level, making fine adjustments very difficult.
- 2). Check the inputs and outputs on the rear of the amplifier. Does it possess the required number of channels for all of your devices? If so, are the connections compatible with outputs from your equipment? Adapters are available for converting most kinds of analogue connector to accept most others, but digital connections generally require an external converter device, which can be expensive. For instance, if you use an optical or SPDIF output on a digital playback device, such as a CD player, ensure your new amplifier has the relevant input to connect it.
- 3). Compare the speaker outputs on the amplifier with the connections on the back of your speakers. Binding posts are the most common form of speaker connection, and will likely be present on both amplifier and speakers. Check the impedance of your speakers also; this will be represented on the back of the enclosure, with a figure in Ohms, (often represented by the Greek letter Omega). Ensure that your new amplifier is compatible with the impedance level, or you risk damage to either your speakers or the output transformer of the amplifier.
- 4). Consider which, if any, items you are planning to add to your setup in the future. If you plan to add or replace input devices, ensure you have an adequate number of channels, and the appropriate connections available. If you're considering adding more speakers, check that the amplifier is Surround or 5:1 compatible.
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