Thomas wrote...

>What makes a powerful amplifier... powerful?  Is it
>because its output impedance is low?

Three main factors:

1. The total DC supply voltage within the amplifier.  This sets
the upper limit on the peak-to-peak amplitude of the amplifier's
output.  The higher the voltage the amplifier can apply to the
speakers, the more power will be delivered.

2. The current-handling capacity of the output transistors (or
MOSFETs) in the final output stage of the amplifier.  The higher
their current rating, the more power can be delivered to the
load.

3. The ability to get rid of the heat generated in the
amplifier's output transistors.  The more power delivered to the
speakers, the more heat-dissipating ability is needed to keep the
transistors within their rated temperature range.

I don't know if that helps, but that's my take on it.

Dave D.

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