How to judge audio quality quickly for Audio novice?

  For audio novices, the sheer variety of audio specifications can be overwhelming. By grasping a few key indicators, you can quickly assess a speaker's true capabilities and avoid spec traps.

1. Frequency Response

  Frequency response indicates the range of frequencies a sound system can produce, from the lowest to the highest. Bookshelf and floorstanding speakers differ in this regard due to their designs. For example, the Tonewinner TD-9 bookshelf speakers have a frequency range of 40Hz to 25kHz, while the TD-C8 floorstanding speakers range from 35Hz to 25kHz.

When reviewing specifications, prioritize balance over a wide range. The "error value" is crucial—smaller values indicate better sound reproduction across frequencies, resulting in a more enjoyable listening experience.

2. Sensitivity

  Sensitivity refers to the sound pressure generated at one meter from the speaker when 1W of power is applied. For example, the Tonewinner TD-8 floor-standing speakers have a sensitivity of 87dB. At a distance of one meter, a 1W signal will produce a sound pressure level of 87dB.

  The higher the sensitivity, the louder the speaker's output will be at the same power level, or the less amplifier power required to achieve the same volume.

3. Output Power

  Amplifier output power refers to the power delivered to the load, measured in watts (W).

  To achieve optimal performance, an amplifier's output power should be 1.2 to 2 times the speaker's rated power. For two 200W speakers with an 8Ω impedance, a two-channel amplifier should have an output power between 240W and 400W.

4. Impedance

 This means that the amplifier's rated output impedance should match the speakers' rated impedance. At this point, the amplifier is at its optimal design load line and can deliver maximum power without distortion.

  If a speaker's impedance is greater than that of the amplifier, the amplifier's actual output power will be less than its rated power. If the speaker's impedance is lower, the system will function, but the amplifier may overload and will need overcurrent protection. Impedance matching is particularly important for tube amplifiers.

5. Signal-to-Noise Ratio

  This refers the difference between the sound signal from a speaker and the background noise when no signal is present, measured in decibels (dB). A higher dB indicates a quieter background.

  Speakers with a signal below 85 dB may have noticeable humming at low volumes, while those at or above 85 dB produce minimal background noise, making them ideal for late-night listening.

6. Distortion

  Sound signal distortion compares a pre-amplified signal with the amplified signal. The lower the difference, the lower the distortion, indicating that the speaker's sound reproduction is closer to the original.

 Labels should include frequency and power specifications, such as 1 kHz and 1 W. The 1 kHz frequency is ideal for reflecting the actual listening experience.

Hope this can give you some support and assistance. For more information, please contact simi@tonewinner.com