Speaker Watts and True Indicators of Loudness
When “watts” are listed as a speaker specification, it typically refers to the power-handling capability. The most useful specification will list something like “100 watts continuous,” indicating that the speaker can handle a maximum of 100 watts of continuous power without damage. Conversely, the sensitivity of a speaker, measured in decibels, tells you how loud the speaker will be. For instance, a sensitivity of 100 dB at 1 watt/1 meter means that with a 1-watt signal, the sound pressure level 1 meter in front of the speaker will be 100 decibels. This is often referred to as speaker sensitivity or efficiency.
These two terms—power-handling capability and sensitivity—are frequently used interchangeably but are actually two different measurements. The power-handling capability (P.M.P.O., peak-momentary power output) determines how much power the speaker can handle for short bursts, whereas the sensitivity in dB (decibels) provides information about how loud the speaker will be.
The sensitivity of the McIntosh XR100 is 87 dB. This relatively low sensitivity means it will require a significant amount of power to achieve a high volume. Yet, its power-handling capability is 600 watts. With such high power, a suitable amplifier, such as the McIntosh MC1.2KW, would be perfect to drive it, ensuring it can produce the required volume efficiently.
Klipsch Klipschorns have a much higher sensitivity of 105 dB, meaning they will be considerably louder and more powerful without needing a large amount of power. Their specifications often mention a continuous power-handling capability of 100 watts, indicating their efficiency and performance at low power input.
If your goal is to have loud speakers, look for a sensitivity greater than 95 dB. This higher sensitivity ensures that even at lower power levels, your speakers will produce a significantly louder sound. However, it's also important to consider the size of the speaker. A 10-inch speaker will generally produce more sound pressure than a 2-inch speaker, even if both have the same sensitivity rating. Size, therefore, plays a crucial role in determining the loudness of the speaker.
It's crucial to understand that ‘watts’ alone do not determine loudness. Instead, the sensitivity in decibels directly correlates with the volume that the speaker can produce. P.M.P.O. wattage matters in terms of the power the speaker can handle but does not necessarily indicate the loudness. A speaker with higher sensitivity will generally be louder, even if it doesn't handle as much power.
When selecting speakers, it's essential to balance both the power-handling capability and the sensitivity. For home theater systems, the Klipsch Klipschorns may be a perfect choice because their high sensitivity means they require less power to produce a powerful sound. Conversely, for a home listening experience, the McIntosh XR100 may be more suitable due to its high power-handling capability, ensuring a robust and clear sound.
In conclusion, while watts are important, the true indicator of loudness is the sensitivity in decibels. Understanding this concept will help you select speakers that are powerful enough to meet your needs and loud enough to produce the sound quality you desire. Properly matching speakers with amplifiers is also crucial for a balanced and immersive audio experience.