What is a power amplifier used for?
A power amplifier increases the power of a signal from line-level to speaker level so it can be heard through speakers, wedges, or studio monitors.
Power Amplifiers
How do power amplifiers work?
A power amplifier converts a weak input signal, like the low current coming from a mixing board or preamp, into a more powerful signal that’s capable of moving the drivers inside your loudspeakers.
What are the different classes of power amplifiers?
Power amps fall into different classes, each with its own strengths. Class D power amps, for example, are known for their efficiency and resistance to overheating, making them a popular choice for touring and live sound rigs.
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Find the Right Power Amplifier for Your Rig
Whether you’re setting up live sound for a music venue or giving a speech in front of a crowd, the right power amplifier can help your message come through loud and clear. No matter the channel count, connections, or wattage you need, Sweetwater has a power amplifier to match.
New to live sound? Our essential live sound tips for beginners is a great place to start.
History of the Live Sound Power Amp
American inventor Lee de Forest is credited with inventing the first power amplifier in the early 20th century. De Forest’s original Audion was too weak to manage telephone line voltages, but modern power amplifiers that have descended from this design now boast power and efficiency to fill entire arenas with sound.
Tips for Choosing a Stage Power Amp
Power amplifiers aren’t standalone devices; they operate within the larger context of your live sound equipment. Your loudspeakers’ power handling, your preamps, and your venue size all play a part in determining your recommended wattage and channel count, whether that’s single-channel, stereo, or multichannel.
Onboard DSP Simplifies Your Amp Setup
Once you know your wattage and channel count, look for an amp that can do more with less gear. Take the Behringer NX6000: at just over 13 pounds, this 6,000-watt amp is easy to haul to a gig, and its Class D design keeps it running cool. The NX6000D (“D” for “DSP”) adds onboard digital signal processing, letting you assign effects like EQ and delay to specific channels. Because it can control delay and crossover point from the front panel, you don’t need separate outboard devices. For more information on power amp specs, see our power amp buying guide.
What Makes a Good Studio Power Amp?
Although touring musicians need power amps that are rugged enough to handle wear and tear on the road, recording studios tend to prioritize fidelity and quiet operation in a critical listening environment. The Avantone CLA-200 is one such example: a Class AB studio reference amp with low distortion and a convection-cooled design built for silent operation.
Power Amplifier FAQs
What are the three basic types of power amplifiers?
The three basic types are DC power amplifiers, RF power amplifiers, and audio power amplifiers.
What are some tips for shopping for power amplifiers?
If you aren’t sure which power amplifier best matches your setup, see our best power amplifiers for live sound for tips.
Rock the House with Your New Power Amplifier
Ready to purchase your first or next power amplifier? Sweetwater makes it easy. With our wide selection of power amps from trusted manufacturers like Crown, Ashly, QSC, Yamaha, and LEA Professional, we’ll help you find the power amp that’s right for your stage or studio. If you don’t know where to begin, give our knowledgeable Sales Engineers a call at (800) 222-4700. Prefer to shop online? Sweetwater’s website has tools to narrow down your power amplifier choices by wattage, price, and more. Select your preferred specs in our convenient product filter and explore your options.
What are the most popular brands for Power Amplifiers on Sweetwater.com?
What are the most popular Power Amplifiers on Sweetwater.com?
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Crown XTi 4002 1200-watt 2-channel Power Amplifier
4.5 out of 5 stars 27 reviews
$1,659.00 -
Crown XLi 3500 1350-watt 2-channel Power Amplifier
5 out of 5 stars 19 reviews
$1,069.00 -
Crown XLS 1502 525-watt 2-channel Power Amplifier
5 out of 5 stars 32 reviews
$650.00 -
Yamaha PX10 1200W 2-channel Power Amplifier
4.5 out of 5 stars 5 reviews
$1,155.99 -
Behringer NX6000 3000-watt 2-channel Power Amplifier
4 out of 5 stars 18 reviews
$449.00
Why shop Power Amplifiers at Sweetwater.com?
With a massive selection of Power Amplifiers, free shipping, a free 2-year warranty, 24/7 access to award-winning support - and more - Sweetwater gives you more than any other retailer! If you have any questions about Power Amplifiers, make sure to give your personal Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700.
