If you grasp a bit of how watts, ohms and decibels work your decisions will be informed.
Watts: Power Output
Watts are a measure of the power your amplifier provides to speakers. Watts = potential volume (more watts being louder in general, but other factors play into it) A small chapel could be served with a 100 watt system, whereas a large auditorium would require at least 500 watts.
Power: Depending on your amount of space, and if you’ll be playing music or simply speaking predominately.
Ohms: Electrical Resistance
Ohms: the electrical resistance of your speakers. Church speakers are typically 4, 8 or 16 ohms As always, the critical element is to use an amplifier that has a speaker with the same ohm-rating. Mismatched impedance is not only dangerous for the equipment it is being connected to, but can make your sound bury itself in a poor cacophony. Always make sure that components are compatible when connecting them. For Church Sound Systems, visit apicommunications.co.uk/audio-visual-services/church/sound-systems/
Decibels: Volume Level
Sound intensity or loudness are measured in decibels (dB). Regular talking is about 60dB, while a congregation ordinarily falls between the scope of 70-85dB. Determined in dB, speaker sensitivity ratings inform you how power is converted into sound by speakers. Increased sensitivity equates to more output from less power.
Putting It Together
We’re not asking you to become an audio electrical engineer, yet understanding these essentials with confidence allows you some ability to interact your needs directly with suppliers and also helps prevent mixing parts that don’t work well or give way too much power.
If you are unsure, make contact with a professional installer to review your unique church needs and suggest components that match appropriately.