Lee
07-14-2002, 06:20 PM
3.9 What are some good (and bad) brands of amplifiers? [JSC, IDB]As with speakers, people emotionally defend their amplifier, so choosing the best is difficult. However, some brands stand out as being consistently good while others are consistently bad. Among the good are HiFonics, Phoenix Gold, a/d/s/, and Precision Power.
Generally, "good" amplifiers tend to cost more (in money/watt) than "bad" amplifiers. So when you see an amp advertising 300W for only $100, and are comparing an amp with 50W for $300, you will usually find that the 50W/$300 amp will be of much higher quality than the 300W/$100 amp.
CAF comment: Usually an amp that has a rating of 300watts that sells for $100 does NOT have 300watts. A common rule of thumb is a dollar a watt. Also, many new brands, both good and bad, have entered the market since this was written.
Generally, "good" amplifiers tend to cost more (in money/watt) than "bad" amplifiers. So when you see an amp advertising 300W for only $100, and are comparing an amp with 50W for $300, you will usually find that the 50W/$300 amp will be of much higher quality than the 300W/$100 amp.
CAF comment: Usually an amp that has a rating of 300watts that sells for $100 does NOT have 300watts. A common rule of thumb is a dollar a watt. Also, many new brands, both good and bad, have entered the market since this was written.