More watts the better?
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Joined: Apr 2001
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From: McKinney Texas
More watts the better?
Okay.. I admitt it has been years since I've installed or bought stereo equipment for my cars..well not years, but a long time since a major install.
But, back in the day(mid 90's) I remember going to IASCA competitions and seeing classes from 0 - 50 watss, 51 - 100 watts, 101 - 250, etc. Now it seems 500 watt plus systems are all I see. Why is this? Are the speakers just requiring more and more? Any thoughts? I'm now rethinking my system I'm about to install. :( I'm scared I won't get the sound I want since it isn't 1000 frick'n watts! :cry
But, back in the day(mid 90's) I remember going to IASCA competitions and seeing classes from 0 - 50 watss, 51 - 100 watts, 101 - 250, etc. Now it seems 500 watt plus systems are all I see. Why is this? Are the speakers just requiring more and more? Any thoughts? I'm now rethinking my system I'm about to install. :( I'm scared I won't get the sound I want since it isn't 1000 frick'n watts! :cry
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From: Galloway NJ
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Joined: Jun 2002
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From: Boise ID
Re: More watts the better? (ParkRat)
The big change has been in mosfet design and amplifier topology. This has allowed more power out of smaller units. This has allowed manufacturers to create speakers with lower sensitvity and better sonics.
I am throwing 150 watts per channel at a 3-way set, and couldn't be more happy. I am throwing 1200 at the 12W7.
Power gives you a higher dynamic capability, only limited by your speakers and ears. Most good 3-way sets (Dyn, CDT, Diamond) can take 150watts per channel of CLEAN power. Co-axial speakers and the like are made for less power and have higher sensitivity.
aim for 75-150 watts per channel on your components, and 500-1500 watts depending on sub.. and you won't be disapointed.
You can always turn down the gain...
Without my gains set, I hit 132db last night with my 12W7.. plenty loud.
I am throwing 150 watts per channel at a 3-way set, and couldn't be more happy. I am throwing 1200 at the 12W7.
Power gives you a higher dynamic capability, only limited by your speakers and ears. Most good 3-way sets (Dyn, CDT, Diamond) can take 150watts per channel of CLEAN power. Co-axial speakers and the like are made for less power and have higher sensitivity.
aim for 75-150 watts per channel on your components, and 500-1500 watts depending on sub.. and you won't be disapointed.
You can always turn down the gain...
Without my gains set, I hit 132db last night with my 12W7.. plenty loud.
