When it comes to audio systems, there are two main components: the amplifier and the speaker. But which one do you need?
The answer depends on the type of audio system you’re building. If you’re building a simple system with a few speakers, you may not need an amplifier. However, if you’re building a more complex system with a lot of speakers or high-power speakers, you’ll need an amplifier.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the difference between amplifiers and speakers, and we’ll discuss when you need each one.
What is an Amplifier?
An amplifier is a device that increases the power of an audio signal. This allows the signal to drive speakers to produce sound. Amplifiers come in a variety of sizes and power ratings.
What is a Speaker?
A speaker is a device that converts electrical signals into sound waves. Speakers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can be used to reproduce a wide range of frequencies.
When Do You Need an Amplifier?
You need an amplifier if you want to drive speakers that require more power than your source device can provide. For example, if you’re connecting a turntable to a pair of passive speakers, you’ll need an amplifier to boost the signal from the turntable to a level that the speakers can handle.
You also need an amplifier if you want to control the volume of your speakers. With an amplifier, you can adjust the volume to get the perfect sound for your listening environment.
When Do You Not Need an Amplifier?
You don’t need an amplifier if you’re using active speakers. Active speakers have a built-in amplifier, so they don’t require an external amplifier.
You also don’t need an amplifier if you’re using headphones. Headphones have their own built-in amplifiers, so they don’t require an external amplifier.
Choosing an Amplifier
If you decide that you need an amplifier, there are a few things you need to consider when choosing one. First, you need to decide how much power you need. The power rating of an amplifier is measured in watts. The higher the wattage, the more power the amplifier can provide.
Second, you need to decide what type of amplifier you want. There are two main types of amplifiers: integrated amplifiers and power amplifiers. Integrated amplifiers combine a preamplifier and a power amplifier in one unit. Power amplifiers are only power amplifiers, and they need to be connected to a preamplifier.
Third, you need to decide what features you want in an amplifier. Some amplifiers have features like built-in tuners, phono stages, and headphone amplifiers.
Choosing Speakers
If you decide that you need speakers, there are a few things you need to consider when choosing them. First, you need to decide what type of speakers you want. There are two main types of speakers: passive speakers and active speakers. Passive speakers require an external amplifier, while active speakers have a built-in amplifier.
Second, you need to decide what size speakers you want. Speakers come in a variety of sizes, from small bookshelf speakers to large floor-standing speakers.
Third, you need to decide what kind of sound you want. Speakers come in a variety of sound signatures, from bright and detailed to warm and full.
Conclusion
Whether you need an amplifier or speaker depends on the type of audio system you’re building. If you’re building a simple system with a few speakers, you may not need an amplifier. However, if you’re building a more complex system with a lot of speakers or high-power speakers, you’ll need an amplifier.
I hope this article has helped you to understand the difference between amplifiers and speakers, and when you need each one.
