Getting to Know Amplifier Modes
Each amplifier mode is used differently, and setting the wrong one can damage your speakers or amplifier.
Did you know that amplifier modes are something very important to understand? Each amplifier mode is used differently and suits different applications. To make sure you don't damage your speakers or amplifier by setting the wrong operating mode, today we will get to know what each amplifier mode means and what kind of work each mode suits, so you can use them correctly. Note first that these modes are found only on Low Impedance amplifiers.
Stereo Mode
Stereo Mode is the amplifier's basic mode. In this mode the amplifier sends drive power to the left and right sides at equal signal levels, which means speakers can be connected to the amplifier independently on both the left and right Output stages. For example, when we connect speakers only through the left Output channel, we can control only the speakers connected through the left Output channel; and if we connect speakers only through the right Output channel, we can likewise control only the speakers connected through the right Output channel.
Bridge Mono Mode
Bridge Mono Mode is a mode that increases the amplifier's maximum output power by combining the wattage of the left and right Output stages into a single channel. This means that when connecting speakers to the amplifier in this mode, you can control only 1 channel.
Which Mode Suits Which Application
The suitability of each amplifier mode depends on your needs and usage pattern, with environmental factors also playing a part. For example, Stereo Mode is very well suited to general work such as general events, small meeting rooms, or general jobs that don't use much space, whereas Bridge Mono Mode suits use with high-wattage speakers such as Line Array speakers, or large-area jobs such as auditoriums, concerts, or various expos.
Frequently asked questions
How does an amplifier's Stereo Mode work?
Stereo Mode is the basic mode: the amplifier sends drive power to the left and right sides at equal signal levels, so speakers can be connected independently on both the left and right output stages. Connect through one side's output and you control only the speakers on that side.
How does Bridge Mono Mode differ from Stereo Mode?
Bridge Mono Mode increases the amplifier's maximum output power by combining the wattage of the left and right output stages into a single channel — so in this mode you can control only one channel of speakers.
Which mode should you use for which job?
Stereo Mode suits general work such as everyday events, small meeting rooms, or jobs that don't use much space. Bridge Mono Mode suits high-wattage speakers such as Line Arrays, or large venues such as auditoriums, concerts, and expos. Note that these modes are found only on Low Impedance amplifiers.