Does it matter what power amp i get?


Hi I am new to home recording. I have a pair of Alesis M1 Passive speakers and need to get an amplifier for them. I am wondering if (aside from the wattage) the type of the amplifier matters at all? I was looking at an alesis ra 150, its 200 dollars, but a friend told me any old amplifier will work, even a 100Watt one from radioshack (which I couldn't find anyway). But are there any recommendations?
driley2b07

Showing 1 response by ozfly

driley, everything up the chain from the speakers affect the sound coming out. Amps, like other components, do have different characteristics from one another. Twl hit the nail on the head when he suggested you take care to match the amp to the speakers. Some amps that sound fine with one speaker will not sound so fine with another (e.g., different damping characteristics or input impedences).

Generally, manufactures match amps to their speakers, so if you are looking at the same brand of amp as are your speakers, you should be OK. Try the Alesis -- if you're happy, go for it. I imagine you should be able to get some kind of money back guarantee you can use if you are unhappy. What the heck -- try a side by side comparison with another amp (also with a good return policy) and see which rocks your boat. Good luck.