Measure amp wattage output...

KellyMic
KellyMic Posts: 166
edited January 2013 in Speakers
My amp puts out a lot more power than my speakers can handle. I keep the amp only 1/4 of the volume though and it works great. I do want to measure the output at the speaker. I know I can use a volt meter and take the voltage squared divided by ohms but curious if it would be best to use a dummy load resistor instead.
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Polk Studio Monitor 4.6 Series 2's, Polk RT1000p's, Polk LSi25's, Boston Acoustic VR-975's
Crown D-75, Crown CE1000, Crown CE2000
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  • zingo
    zingo Posts: 11,258
    edited January 2013
    Yes. Use 8 ohm dummy loads rated at more than the amps output, and measure. Just be careful of clipping your amp as you will audibly have no reference.

    The power will rise faster than you expect as you turn to volume knob.
    Jake
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  • KellyMic
    KellyMic Posts: 166
    edited January 2013
    I've only been able to find a 4ohm and 8ohm 200w dummy loads. Still looking for one that goes up to 1000w.
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    Polk Studio Monitor 4.6 Series 2's, Polk RT1000p's, Polk LSi25's, Boston Acoustic VR-975's
    Crown D-75, Crown CE1000, Crown CE2000
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  • zingo
    zingo Posts: 11,258
    edited January 2013
    You'll have to use the 200w ones to custom build a 1000w dummy load for each channel; use extra headsinks to disapate that much heat.

    Or use the 200w units, calculate the maximum voltage for that dummyload, and stick to it.
    Jake
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  • skrol
    skrol Posts: 3,393
    edited January 2013
    When I was testing an amp and asking about dummy loads, someone suggested using an oven heating element. I don't know the impedance but something like that should handle the power.
    Stan

    Main 2ch:
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