Quick amp question

[phil675]

So let's say I want speakers in 2 rooms powered by 1 amp.

If I get a stereo amp that powers 2 speaker sets, has the A and B buttons, then the volume for both sets of speakers will be the same right?

Thanks

 

[Marsman]

Depends on the speakers. If they are the same make/model, then yes; if no, then it depends on their Ohm and sensitivity rating.

Also bear in mind, that driving two sets of speakers is double the load for the amp. If an amp is turned up to 50% volume for desirable listening level with one set of speakers, then by using two sets of speakers at the same time, if they are of similar spec, you can't achieve the same level of volume for both sets of speaker as you could when using the one set. That would mean maximum volume which would lead to clipping and distortion, which in turn would eventually damage the speakers. For powering two sets of speakers, you'd need an amp with enough headroom, that you can easily reach the desired volume level without stressing the amp.

 

[DannyW]

^^ well said, some really good amplifiers can provide 2x 2x8ohm speakers with the same wattage rating as if they were running one pair of speakers

Are you looking for a brand new amp or going down the retro/vintage route?

 

[phil675]

Ok so if I wanted an amp that controls volume for two sets of speakers independently, what would I need?

 

[lucid]

Ok so if I wanted an amp that controls volume for two sets of speakers independently, what would I need?

An AV receiver with the multi-zone feature would do. That would give you independent volume control of both zones, and even independent source selection if you so wished.

Alternatively tiy could run from a standard Hi-Fi amp with A/B out and run both outputs via in-line volume controls. You'd lose quite a bit of power that way though, and not to mention it would look messy.