Current capacity question

laotzu61
laotzu61 Posts: 327
edited October 2013 in Electronics
my amplifier is a parasound hca-1200. the rms power output spec is 200 watts@8 ohms; 300 watts@4 ohms. (per channel) the current capacity is stated as 40 amps continuous. I am assuming this is per channel also. my question is; is the current capacity dependent on resistance? in other words, as I am driving 4 ohm speakers, is the current capacity going to increase, or does it remain 40 amps? thanks.
"The symbol is not the reality"
Post edited by laotzu61 on
· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • zingo
    zingo Posts: 11,258
    edited October 2013
    40 amps is the maximum current output independent of load.
    Jake
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • laotzu61
    laotzu61 Posts: 327
    edited October 2013
    thank you, jake. is that then 40 amps total, or per channel? the reason I asked the original question is that when I spoke with a tech at parasound, he explained basically what you did. when I spoke with a tech at outlaw audio regarding current capacity of their monoblock amp, he referred to ohms law and stated the 22amps at 8 ohms would translate into about 30 amps at 4 ohms.
    "The symbol is not the reality"
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • zingo
    zingo Posts: 11,258
    edited October 2013
    I believe the maximum current rating is a theoretical or lab short between the two channels, but you are right that the real time current output would be dictated by Ohm's Law. Maximum current capacity usually points towards the amps ability to handle heavy loads and dynamic passages of music.
    Jake
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • laotzu61
    laotzu61 Posts: 327
    edited October 2013
    gottcha. and thanks.
    "The symbol is not the reality"
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter