Audio Amplifier frequency analysis

In summary, the key factors for analyzing an audio amplifier for good sound output include the ability to process different frequency components, having separate filters for low and high frequency sounds, and providing a linear frequency vs. phase shift curve to avoid distortion. For customers buying an audio amplifier, it is best to choose one that sounds pleasing to your ears rather than focusing on technical criteria. Some audiophiles prefer vacuum tube amplifiers over transistor ones due to the former's high impedance output and more compliant speaker cone. The Acrosound ultralinear TO-330 output transformer is a popular choice among vacuum tube enthusiasts.
  • #1
GD.Boss
4
0
Could anyone explain how to analize an Audio Amplifier so it can have good sound output.

Thank you in advance
 
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  • #2
Hi, and welcome. Where are you?

Perhaps you could explain a bit more about what you are thinking of doing.

Are you going to buy an amplifier and need to know how to select a good one?

If you are designing an amplifier, I guess you would already know how to test it.
 
  • #3
Take the amplifier in both hands and lift it up. Is it heavy?
Heavy=Good
Light=Crappy
 
  • #4
What sounds good to you and what sounds good to me could quite possibly be 2 different things, so, no I cannot help you.
 
  • #5
GD.Boss said:
Could anyone explain how to analize an Audio Amplifier so it can have good sound output.

Thank you in advance

If you are an Engineer designing an audio amplifier circuit please read the following:

For the audio amplifier to have good sound output it should have the ability to process different frequency components in the audio signal using separate filters. Different frequency components are best reproduced by different types of speakers. So it is necessary to make sure the amplifier has woofer to reproduce low frequency sounds and tweeter to produce high frequency sound. As the number of channels in the audio signal increase you will get a more realistic hearing experience. If the amplifier produces a phase shift for the audio signal then the frequency Vs phase shift curve should be linear. If not phase distortion will occur in the output signal.

If you are a customer buying an audio amplifier please read the following:

Just buy the amplifier which produces music pleasing to your ears. Mostly the audio amplifier which satisfies all the criteria in the previous paragraph technically will have high fidelity and it will produce music that will please most people.
 
  • #6
Some audiophiles claim that a vacuum tube amplifier is better than a transistor amplifier, in part because the pentode or tetrode (vacuum tube) output is a very high impedance output, and the speaker cone is more compliant than with a voltage source (transistor) output. The back emf developed by a moving speaker cone is shorted out by an amplifier with a voltage output. A voltage output makes the speaker cone very stiff (low compliance). In my old vacuum tube amplifier, the (now rare) Acrosound ultralinear TO-330 output (push-pull) transformer weighed over 15 pounds. See
http://www.clarisonus.com/Archives/Trans/Acro55.pdf
Bob S

[added] The Acro TO-330 weighs about 15 pounds per channel, or about 30 pounds for stereo.
 
Last edited:
  • #7
Bob S said:
http://www.clarisonus.com/Archives/Trans/Acro55.pdf
Bob S

[added] The Acro TO-330 weighs about 15 pounds per channel, or about 30 pounds for stereo.



that is the 'pdf' for the transformer only. do you have picture of the complete amplifier. thanks
 

1. What is audio amplifier frequency analysis?

Audio amplifier frequency analysis is the process of measuring and analyzing the frequency response of an audio amplifier. This involves determining the range of frequencies that the amplifier can accurately reproduce and the level of distortion present at different frequencies.

2. Why is frequency analysis important for audio amplifiers?

Frequency analysis is important for audio amplifiers because it allows us to evaluate the performance and quality of the amplifier. By analyzing the frequency response, we can determine if the amplifier is capable of producing accurate and undistorted sound across a wide range of frequencies.

3. How is frequency analysis performed on audio amplifiers?

Frequency analysis on audio amplifiers is typically performed using specialized equipment such as an audio spectrum analyzer. The amplifier is connected to the analyzer, and a test signal is sent through the amplifier. The analyzer then measures the output signal and displays the frequency response graphically.

4. What factors can affect the frequency response of an audio amplifier?

There are several factors that can affect the frequency response of an audio amplifier. These include the design and quality of the amplifier's components, the type of circuit used, and the input and output impedance of the amplifier.

5. How do I interpret the results of frequency analysis on an audio amplifier?

Interpreting the results of frequency analysis on an audio amplifier can be done by comparing the measured frequency response to the ideal frequency response for that type of amplifier. The closer the measured response is to the ideal response, the better the amplifier's performance. Additionally, any peaks or dips in the frequency response can indicate areas where the amplifier may be producing distortion.

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