Expert: Cleggsan - 7/18/2009

Question
"i bought 2 12" speakers(music 300 watts and peak 600 watts each) and i dont know what kind of amp im gonna need to push the 2 alone and advise me on the type of mixer."


Answer
Thanks for your question.  But, I must know more.  Are you talking about mobile, home audio or studio applications.  When you used the term "type of mixer" that makes me wonder if you are doing studio work.

But, here is the rule: You must know the impedance rating of the speakers you purchased.  You must decide how you are going to connect them (series or parallel). Then, you must choose an amplifier that has an impedance rating equal or lower than the speaker load.  For example, if the amplifier you choose is rated for 4 ohm load and you run a 2 ohm speaker load it will cause damage to the amplifier.

Then, next, look at the sensitivity of the speakers you purchased.  If the sensitivity is over 90db you can use a lower powered amplifier.  If the sensitivity is less than 90db you will need twice the power to sound the same loudness.  

Finally, power ratings given by speaker manufacturers are not very meaningful and you should not put too much emphasis on that figure.  Peak power is a meaningless term and is used by the manufacturer to fool you into thinking they are more powerful than they really are.  It is a ficticious number, really.

You can now choose your amplifier intelligently, but if you need more I must know the make and model of the speakers that you have.

C