Can you test the output of an amp?

[TheV6Bird]

My really cool neighbor gave me a Phoenix amp that he's had for a long time. It was just sitting around in his house, and he wanted to get rid of it. The thing is, the amp has no marks on it whatsoever. I has no "PHOENIX" lettering, no colors, no bright output numbers on it. Just a solid aluminum color with the lines on it to remove heat. Are there tests I could do to find out how much power this thing puts out?

[Brian Dieckman]

There has to be at least a serial number somewhere, if you can find that, then you can call the manufacturer to find the model number and specs.

As far as testing it yourself, you can, but you'll need some specialized tools. What you'll need:

1. an 8 or 4 (or two 8) ohm dummy load(s) capable of handling at least 200 watts for safetys sake.

2. an ossiliscope to monitor waveform

3. a power source that's about 14 volts (unless you plan on testing it in your car)

4. a source unit that will play a test tone. You can use a tone generator as long as it's capable of making a sine wave at various frequencies and at various levels. (to simulate a CD player) I just use a CD player with "the ultimate test CD." It has many test tones.

5. a multimeter to measure amperage draw at the power terminals, and another to monitor amperage draw at the speaker terminals. (If your ossiliscope doesn't have that capability)

Here's a really simple way, however. Look at the fuse on the power input. The rating will give you some indication of the wattage of the amp, as long as someone hasn't changed it.

Sounds like a lot of work huh? I usually keep a "disposable" speaker in a box around the shop for testing amps. I know how it sounds, so I can tell how an amp is performing.

The best way is to find out the model of the amp and go that route.

Happy bumping!

-Brian

[superbird]

Trying to find a serial or model number is the best way to go.

To find out an Amps maximum power output you would need to find a audio shop the can "bench test" the amp. Most shops will not have the equipment to do this, but if you live in an area with a high end shop, you might get lucky.