Amplifiers (and/or preamplifiers) are essential components in most practical audio signal chains and typically require electrical power to function properly. They’re used to drive loudspeakers and headphones, boost mic and instrument signals to usable levels, and for many other reasons. Why do audio amplifiers and preamplifiers need power supplies? Whether solid-state, tube-based or digital, audio…
If you’ve stumbled upon this article, you’ve likely been confused about the slew rate specification on an amplifier specifications sheet and want to know more about this rare and odd data point. What is amplifier slew rate, and how does it affect performance? Amplifier slew rate is a measurement of how quickly an amplifier is…
Audio amplifiers are required in nearly all playback environments and many recording situations as well. There are plenty of amplifier types out there, and a major distinction between amplifiers is the use of solid-state circuitry versus tube circuitry. What are the differences between solid-state and tube amplifiers? Solid-state amps use solid-state (transistor-based) amplifier circuits, while…
The damping factor is one of many equations that applies to audio equipment. When discussing the relationship between audio outputs (particularly amplifiers) and audio inputs (particular loudspeakers), the damping factor is somewhat lesser considered rating but important to know nonetheless. What is the damping factor between an amplifier and a loudspeaker? Damping factor (DF) is…
Whether separate units or built into other audio equipment (speakers, integrated amps, etc.), power amplifiers are critical components in any loudspeaker setup. With so many power amp options, it’s good to know how to read their specifications to get a good idea of how each amp will perform. What are power amplifier specifications? Power amplifier specifications,…
Whether it’s on the specification sheet or written as a number of ohms (Ω) on the back of the speaker, impedance is something we’ll see or hear of at some point when using speakers. The seemingly mysterious specification of speaker impedance should be understood in order for us to fully comprehend how speakers work. What…
Impedance is a confusing topic when it comes to amplifiers, speakers and pretty much all other audio devices. If you’ve ever wondered what the ohm (Ω) rating meant on your amp and how it affects the amp’s performance in a system, this is the article for you! What is amplifier impedance? Audio amplifiers have inputs…
There are many headphones and headphone types on the market that are defined by a large number of specifications. These specs tell us a lot about the headphones and how they’re likely to perform. Of course, it’s always best to listen critically and make up your own mind about headphones but knowing and understanding the…
USB microphones are a popular alternative to typical XLR microphones due to their ease of use and relatively low price points. For this reason, many people opt for these inexpensive plug-and-play mics. How do USB microphones work? USB microphones, as transducers, work the same as any other mic by converting sound (mechanical wave energy) into…
Studio monitors are an essential part of any professional or project studio. There are plenty of superb studio monitors in circulation and quite a few excellent brands to choose from. There are so many amazing studio monitor manufacturers that I couldn’t pick just 10 to share with you. Even a top 11 was challenging, and…
Whether we’re immersed in a movie, jamming to our favourite songs, listening to podcasts, or enjoying (or not enjoying) audio in our home, we often employ speakers to do so. Having speakers in our home can improve our enjoyment of our home, and so it would reason that better home speakers could greatly benefit us….
Subwoofers can really add that extra depth, emotion and feeling (literally) to the music and cinema experience. These large bass/sub-bass-focused speakers are commonly included in audio systems of vehicles, public address systems, home stereos/theatres, theatres and studios. With so many speaker brands/manufacturers that produce subwoofers, there are a few that stand out. So whatever your…
