Best Studio Monitor Amplifiers
Introduction
Since we’ve already discussed passive studio monitors and passive speakers, it’s time to dive into the next essential component: power amplifiers. If you’re using active monitors, this article may not be relevant for your studio setup. However, if you have passive speakers and want to set them up in your living room for audiophile listening, you’re in the right place.
Hi-Fi speakers need a power amp that can enhance sound quality and provide volume control, ensuring your speakers receive the right amount of audio signal power to perform at their best. Let’s get started with our topic, and afterward, we’ll recommend some power amp models you can consider.
What is Power Amplifier?
A power amplifier is an electronic device that increases the power of a signal. It is commonly used to drive speakers, headphones, RF transmitters, and similar devices that require a higher power input. Unlike voltage or current amplifiers, which drive loads indirectly, the power amplifier serves as the final block in an amplifier chain.
Power amplifiers have a minimum threshold for the input signal they can accept. Therefore, instead of sending a raw audio or RF signal directly to the power amplifier, the signal is first pre-amplified using a voltage or current amplifier. This modification ensures the signal reaches the necessary level for the power amplifier to process.
For instance, microphones are often used as input sources. However, the signal from a microphone is too weak for the power amplifier to handle directly. That’s why the signal is pre-amplified to slightly increase its voltage and current.
After pre-amplification, the audio waveform can be aesthetically adjusted using tone control and volume control circuits. The amplifier then sends the signal through a speaker, and the output can be fed back to the amplifier. Now, let’s look at three different types of power amplifiers and their key features.
Audio Power Amplifiers
The purpose of these power amplifiers is to boost the power of a weaker audio signal. They are used in devices like televisions, mobile phones, and other circuits that drive speakers. Audio power amplifiers can produce outputs ranging from just a few milliwatts (such as in headphone amplifiers) to thousands of watts (like those in Hi-Fi systems and home theater amplifiers).
RF Power Amplifiers
To send wireless signals over long distances through the air, modulated waves must be transmitted. This is done using antennas, and the range of these antennas depends on the amount of power supplied to them.
For wireless transmissions such as FM broadcasting, antennas need to transmit signals at power levels of thousands of kilowatts. To send modulated waves far enough to cover the desired distance, Radio Frequency Power amplifiers are used.
Power amplifiers for DC power
PWM (Pulse Width Modulated) power amplifiers boost the power of PWM signals. To drive motors or actuators, these systems need high-power signals. Actuators supply DC motors or microcontroller systems with amplified signals that come from microcontroller systems.
When it’s time to choose your power amplifier, it’s important to pay attention to certain specifications—both in your amp and your speakers, whether you already own them or plan to buy new ones. Matching these specs will give you the best results, help prevent equipment damage, and save you from unnecessary headaches.
It’s essential to pair your amplifier and loudspeakers correctly. Start by making sure the speaker’s power and impedance ratings are compatible with the amplifier. If you purchased a set from an authorized audio dealer, this is likely already taken care of. If you have any doubts, don’t hesitate to call the dealer for clarification.
Look for the wattage (W) rating on the back of your loudspeaker. This is especially important for powering passive speakers. The speaker’s specifications typically recommend suitable amplifier power based on this rating.
If you don’t have the speaker’s spec sheet, a good rule of thumb is to choose an amplifier whose power output falls between the RMS value of the speaker and twice that amount. For example, if your speaker is rated at 350W RMS, a suitable amplifier would provide between 350 RMS and 700 RMS watts.
Speaker impedance also affects how much load is placed on the amplifier. Most loudspeakers have an impedance of 8 ohms, but some are rated at 4 ohms. Impedance directly impacts the amplifier’s power delivery. Be especially cautious when connecting your amplifier to speakers with an impedance of 4 ohms or lower, as this can potentially damage the amplifier.
Now that you’re familiar with some of the basics of power amps, we’ve put together a list of models for you to choose from. If you decide on any of these amps, we’ve also included direct purchase links to make things easier.
1. ART SLA-1 100-watt Power Amplifier
The SLA-1 from ART is a rackmountable, two-channel power amplifier designed for use in recording studios. It offers a wide frequency response with minimal noise and distortion, delivering high-quality audio output. The front panel features a five-way binding post output, along with XLR and 1/4″ input connectors.
The SLA-1 includes a ground-lift switch to eliminate hum caused by ground loops and can operate in either stereo or bridged mode. The unit also has full protection circuitry, including short circuit, overload, and overheating protection.
If any fault is detected, the amplifier will automatically disconnect the outputs and resume normal operation once the issue is resolved. The SmartFan cooling system provides quiet, fan-assisted convection cooling for reliable performance.
- 100 Watt RMS at 8 Ohm per channel
- 130 Watt RMS at 4 Ohm per channel
- 260 Watt RMS at 8 Ohm bridged
- Frequency range: 10 Hz to 40 kHz +/- 0.5 dB
- CMMR: > 60 dB (typical @ 1 kHz)
- THD: < 0.05%
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ART SLA-1 100-watt Power Amplifier |
2. Behringer A800 800W 2-channel Power Amplifier
Designed for professional recording studios or for home use when the highest quality sound is required, the A800 power amplifier is a versatile and efficient 800W Class D amp. It offers a wide range of connectivity options, including XLR, TRS, and RCA connectors.
The Behringer A800 power amp also features silent convection cooling technology, which helps keep studio noise to a minimum. With high-precision level meters and clip indicators, it’s easy to monitor performance. Thanks to its ultra-low impedance design, the A800 is compatible with almost any passive speaker, including studio monitors.
Audio engineers around the world have responded enthusiastically to the A800’s impressive performance and surprising affordability. This amplifier can deliver two channels of 400 watts each at 4 ohms, or 800 watts in bridged-mono mode at 8 ohms.
The A800 provides massive headroom for the most accurate audio reproduction. Its advanced convection cooling ensures stable, noise-free operation, while the servo-controlled design makes it suitable for driving a wide variety of passive speaker systems.
- Convection-cooled for silent operation (no fan)
- Protection circuits for DC resistance and overheating per channel
- Fast-response switching power supply with high efficiency
- Output Power: 2 x 400 W at 4 Ohm / 2 x 220 W at 8 Ohm / 1 x 800 W at 8 Ohm (bridged)
- Inputs: 2x XLR, 6.3 mm TRS, RCA
- Outputs: 2x Speaker Twist and screw terminals
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Behringer A800 800W 2-channel Power Amplifier |
3. Avantone Pro CLA-200 Studio Reference Amplifier
The Avantone Pro CLA-200 Studio Reference Amplifier delivers classic sound quality with its classic A/B design. Special features like a toroidal transformer linear power supply and large VU meters set this amplifier apart. With over 200 watts per channel, it can easily power medium to large studio speakers, all housed in a standard 2U rack mount chassis. Thanks to convection cooling, the CLA-200 runs silently, making it perfect for use in the same room as your monitors.
With its high power output and whisper-quiet operation, the CLA-200 Studio Reference Amplifier is ideal for studio environments. It delivers 208 watts into 8 Ohms in testing and can run at a third of its power without any thermal issues.
Designed as the perfect partner for the CLA-10 studio monitors, the CLA-200 can handle any speaker load demanded by today’s music production. Studios looking for open, transparent, and distortion-free sound will find everything they need here.
The Avantone Pro CLA-200 studio reference amplifier is built for the modern studio, offering a dynamic, high-output, high-resolution, full-range design. It features a convection-cooled 2U chassis with uncompromising components, perfectly complementing the Avantone CLA-10 Studio Reference Monitors. Use it with any passive studio monitor that demands serious dynamic range.
- Class AB
- Power: 2 x 300 W at 4 Ohm, 2 x 200 W at 8 Ohm
- Bridged Mono: 500 W at 8 Ohm
- Frequency range: 20 – 20,000 Hz
- Signal to noise ratio: > 94 dB
- THD: < 0.1%
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Avantone Pro CLA-200 Studio Reference Amplifier |
4. Stewart Audio PA 50B 50W Studio Power Amplifier
This amplifier is designed to meet the demanding requirements of low power consumption, high efficiency, and extended duty cycles, all within a compact half-rack package.
It is ideal for commercial, industrial, and professional audio installations, offering high-quality sound at a low cost. Its lightweight design and convection cooling system make it an excellent choice. Flexible configuration options allow you to bridge the unit to mono for increased power, and it accepts both balanced and unbalanced signals through 1/4″ TRS inputs.
Key specifications include a power output of 50 watts per channel. The unit features a Class AB amplifier and covers a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz. It delivers up to 25 watts of stereo power into an eight-ohm load, 50 watts of stereo power into a four-ohm load, and 100 watts of bridged power into a four-ohm load.
- Number of Channels: 2
- Power Class: Class AB
- Watts/Side @ 8 ohms: 25W
- Watts/Side @ 4 ohms: 50W
- Watts Bridged: 100W @ 8 ohms
- Cooling System: Convection Cooled
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Stewart Audio PA 50B 50W Studio Power Amplifier |
5. Samson Servo 600 Power Amplifier
Power amplifiers from Samson, such as the Servo 600, are designed to drive multiple speaker chains or large-format speakers. This rack-mountable unit delivers exceptionally clean output with very low distortion and can operate in either stereo or bridged modes.
The Servo 600 features both RCA and 1/4″ connectors for signal input. For output, it provides a five-way binding post and a 1/4″ connector. You can adjust the signal level for each channel individually.
The Servo 600 includes several built-in protection features. Dual variable-speed cooling fans help prevent overheating, while safeguards against overloads and faulty wiring protect the system from damage. If an overload occurs, the resettable circuit breaker makes it easy to restart. Additionally, LED meters let you monitor output levels and check the status of the protection system.
- Rugged servo-controlled 2-space 19″ rackmount stereo/mono power amp.
- 300 watts per channel @ 4 ohms (stereo)
- 600 watts into 8 ohms (bridged mono mode)
- 20Hz to 50kHz frequency response for maximum sonic performance
- Electronically balanced 1/4″ inputs plus RCA connectors
- 1/4″ and binding post outputs
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Samson Servo 600 Power Amplifier |
6. Amphion Amp700 Stereo Power Amplifier
Get the best performance from your Amphion monitors with the Amphion Amp700, which delivers rock-solid control and high-resolution sound. The Amp700 provides two channels at 350 watts per channel, giving you plenty of headroom for top-level performance. With its buffer stage, the Amp700 works perfectly with all Amphion speaker models and applications.
This amplifier delivers a tight, fast, and highly detailed signal with incredibly clear audio. Amphion has also developed a proprietary buffer stage in-house, designed for extra sonic quality. With the Amp700, your studio monitors will reach their maximum potential.
- Supplies you with 2 channels of low-distortion, Class D amplification
- Proprietary, in-house-designed buffer stage ensures unmatched sound quality
- Meticulous sonic matching and top-shelf components
- Resilient rackmountable aluminum enclosure
- Rugged Neutrik SpeakON connectors
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Amphion Amp700 Stereo Power Amplifier |
Conclusion
We hope we’ve covered everything you need to know about power amps and why they’re essential for your passive monitors. Just remember to follow all the tips for pairing your speakers with amps, and you’ll be all set.
Out of the six models we reviewed, our top pick is the Samson Servo 600. It offers the best balance between price, quality, and features.
If you have any questions about this topic, feel free to ask in the comment section below—we’d love to help! Now, pair up your system and enjoy your sound!
Hello;
in this article is written that the Amphion “Amp700” power amplifier is very suitable for Amphion studio monitors.
Would you be so kind as to explain – if you listen ONLY VERY QUIETLY is it possible that a much lower wattage amp then “Amp700” (e.g. 50W) would drive Amphion “One18” monitors as good as the Amp700?
Regards;
Leonard
Hi Leonard,
Yes, it is possible to power passive speakers with a lower wattage amplifier than the power recommendation of the speakers. However, there are a few things to consider.
When a speaker manufacturer provides a power recommendation, it is usually based on the optimal performance and power handling capabilities of the speakers. Using an amplifier with lower wattage may result in lower volume levels and potentially limit the dynamic range of the speakers. The speakers may not reach their full potential in terms of loudness and overall sound quality.
Additionally, using an amplifier with significantly lower wattage than the power recommendation may pose a risk of damaging the amplifier or the speakers. If the amplifier is pushed beyond its limits and starts to distort or clip, it can send excessive power to the speakers, which could potentially damage the speaker drivers.
It is generally recommended to use an amplifier that is within the power range specified by the speaker manufacturer. This ensures that you achieve optimal performance and avoid any potential damage to the speakers or the amplifier. However, if you use a lower wattage amplifier, it’s important to be mindful of the volume levels and avoid pushing the system to its limits to minimize the risk of damage.
Hope this helps,
Bests,
Nikoloski