another question for SuperPuss (or anyone else who knows this) [amp power]

[eric_B]

I also wondered if you have, for example, a 400W amp: does it use 400W all the time? So when you put all volume levels to the max but aren't sending any sound to it, does it still consume 400W? Or only when you're using its full potential?

[SuperPuss]

A power amp that consumes 400 watts will only do so at full load. When it is idling (ie, no signal), it will not consume anywhere near that amount of power. Also, the position of the volume control has no effect on power consumption when there's no signal present.
The only amplifiers that consume a lot of power at idle are class 'A' amplifiers and they are typically limited to esoteric HiFi use.

[eric_B]

A power amp that consumes 400 watts will only do so at full load. When it is idling (ie, no signal), it will not consume anywhere near that amount of power. Also, the position of the volume control has no effect on power consumption when there's no signal present.
The only amplifiers that consume a lot of power at idle are class 'A' amplifiers and they are typically limited to esoteric HiFi use.

Thank you, SP. No more time for new questions now, however, got to get to work!

[SuperPuss]

You're welcome