Target SPL and Required Amplifier Size

In a previous article (Loudspeaker Sensitivity: What’s a Watt Anyway? April 2010 Voice Coil), I examined the topic of loudspeaker sensitivity and how it may or may not relate to the overall sound pressure level (SPL) produced by a loudspeaker. The output capability of the amplifier driving the loudspeaker is of equal importance to achieving the target SPL from the direct field of a loudspeaker. This can also be related to the driving signal or the intended program material. This article was originally published in Voice Coil, May 2010.