Features
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Concert. Professional amplifiers designed to work at concerts and other similar events. Their main external difference from
home models is rack mounting; for almost all concert models, the mounting size is indicated in the characteristics (see below). In terms of performance, the main difference is the high power, in some models exceeding 1000 watts per channel even at 8 ohm load. You can also note a rather restrained design — where such a technique is used, the appearance is far from being of paramount importance.
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Informational. Amplifiers designed for use in public address systems — at stations, airports, shopping centers, etc. One of the features of this application is that passive loudspeakers can be located at a great distance from the amplifier — tens or even hundreds of metres. The standard way to ensure signal transmission over such a distance is to use transformers at the output of the amplifier and at the inputs of the loudspeakers. Such a "transformer" connection can be carried out according to the standards 100/70 V and 50/25 V; in fact, the presence of at least one type of output is mandatory for power amplifiers and integrated amplifiers (see "Type") for this purpose. However, preamplifiers can also be produced for information. Also note that some data models support only one audio channel; and multi-channel often provide the ability to quickly turn
...on and off individual channels — this allows you to organize broadcasting in separate zones.
— Concert / informational. Devices that combine the capabilities of the two types of amplifiers mentioned in the name (for more details on each, see above). Almost all are rack-mounted (among purely informational models this is less common). They can also be single-channel, and there are quite a few such solutions.On headphones
The type of connector used
to connect headphones to an amplifier.
— 3.5 mm (mini-Jack). The most popular audio connector in modern portable electronics, also found among stationary equipment. However it is considered not as suitable for high-quality sound as 6.35 mm Jack, since it gives an increased likelihood of interference at the connection point. On the other hand, the vast majority of modern headphones, of all price categories, are made specifically for this connector. This means that the presence of a mini-Jack socket in most cases will allow you to connect headphones directly, without the use of adapters — that is, in the best way.
— 6.35 mm (Jack). This connector is typical mainly for stationary audio equipment, including professional class. It provides a better connection quality than the mini-Jack (in particular, less resistance due to the larger contact area), and is also more durable and reliable. At the same time, it is worth noting that only some high-end headphone models are equipped with a “native” plug under such a connector; and to connect the popular 3.5 mm mini-Jack you will need an adapter, which can affect the sound quality.
Front panel
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Display. The presence of a display on the front panel of the amplifier. Such displays may have a different design and size, but they are all used to display service information: operating mode, selected signal source, special notifications, overload messages, errors, etc. This provides additional ease of use.
— Indicators. In this case, it means that there are indicators on the front panel that indicate the currently used signal source. Usually they look like a row of light bulbs with the appropriate signatures — "Phono", "CD", "Tuner", "AUX", etc. Such pointers are not as versatile as the display, but they are still very convenient.
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Arrow indicators. Presence on the front panel of indicators in the form of scales with arrows. Usually, such indicators are designed to display the peak level of the output signal. They make it easy to track overloads, and many users find this option more convenient and visual than displays. In addition, the arrow scales give the amplifier a stylish appearance, and, unlike the same displays, do not have complex electronics that can distort the sound. However, this category also includes other types of indicators with scales; some of them may not use an arrow, but other indicators (for example, light ones).
— Regulators behind a hidden panel. The presence of a cover on the front panel that hides the controls of the amplifier. Many models are e
...quipped with additional controls on the front panel; they can be used to adjust both the sound — volume, bass / treble, balance, etc. — and other operation parameters (for example, selecting a signal source or switching between the main and additional speakers). Sometimes these controls (as well as the front panel inputs) are provided with a cover, usually for aesthetic reasons. an abundance of small elements would give the device a sloppy appearance. The cover can also perform protective functions — for example, it reduces the amount of dust that enters the connectors.
— Input audio jack. The presence on the front panel of an input for connecting an audio signal — usually linear, in analogue format. On the one hand, such an input greatly simplifies work with signal sources that need to be connected only occasionally and for a short time — for example, MP3 players: the front panel is always in sight, while getting to the connectors on the back is sometimes very difficult. On the other hand, usually the role of the front audio jack is played by AUX IN with a 3.5 mm mini-Jack jack. This connector is not used among the main inputs, but it is quite popular in portable electronics, in particular, the players already mentioned. Some models may have a pair of RCA jacks on the front panel (see "RCA (pair)"), but this option is less common.
— Headphone output. Headphone output on the front panel of the amplifier. Headphones are portable devices, and on average you have to reconnect them significantly more often than most other components of the audio system; the output located on the front panel greatly simplifies the process.
