Let's talk about amp power

[dojo]

So I was wondering if someone could help me understand about amp power etc.

So originally I had always (maybe foolishly) assumed that a 100w amp had twice the out put of a 50w.

After reading about this is would seem to suggest that this is correct in terms of acoustic power, an amp with twice the watch would create 3db more than the other amp with half the wattage therefore doubling the acoustic power.

Reading on it suggests that because hearing is based on sound pressure you actually need 6db of volume to create double the sound pressure? Therefore if you wanted an amp twice as loud as your 50w you would need a 200w

Now on reading other bits and bobs it suggests that to create twice the volume you need 10x the wattage... So to get an amp twice as loud as your 50w you would need a 500w amp...

I normally use a little 5w amp and was thinking about getting a 12w number but if it's only going to have 20% or so power then I'll re think.

If someone could help me understand I would be very appreciative!

[dojo]

Yes - I have been reading a lot about speakers and it seems that your bang on the money about that.

Maybe thats why an AC30 delivers so much power - It's not restricted by its speakers, plus I think they have a lot of clean headroom and that cut through a lot more than an amp thats breaking up.

In theory an AC30 will only have twice output sound as a 5w amp (headroom is key though maybe?) but the 2x12's will give a lot more spread than a 1x8 and a bigger sound?!?

From what I understand its a 10db volume increase to give double the "subjective room sound" so thats 10x the wattage (speakers being equal).

Does make me wonder why I carted stacks and twins round for years!!

[dojo]

I honestly can't be bothered to lug my 2x12 Mesa about let alone my JCM800, much rather a little 5w matchless these days and mic it up, it pumps out enough for stage sound and anything else is up front.

My bro has a little 22w sessionette and that is loud (as is his AC30) both are very clean and you have to do everything via the board which is fine.

[dojo]

scrubchub said:

h is actually too much for most venues. The 'tvp' stands for ' true valve power' so it is supposed to be as loud as the equivalent valve amp. I'm not sure it is but its close.

Which begs another question - why are valve amps so much louder than solid state?

I think thats because Solid State amps are usually equipped with cheaper speakers that aren't as efficient. If you get a well made SS it will be as loud as a tube amp.