Find the total load your cabinets present and the amplifier power to drive them safely, in parallel or series. Updates live as you type.
Total load and the amp power to drive it safely.
Program ≈ 2× RMS, peak ≈ 4× RMS. Rule of thumb: amp ≈ 1.5–2× program power per channel into the load. Check the amp's minimum impedance.
Find the total load your cabinets present and the amplifier power to drive them safely, in parallel or series. Updates live as you type.
A common live-sound rule of thumb is to pick an amp that delivers about 1.5 to 2 times the speaker program power per channel into the connected load. Program power is roughly twice the continuous (RMS) rating. Headroom like this lets transients through cleanly without the amp clipping.
Wiring cabs in parallel divides the impedance (two 8 ohm cabs become 4 ohm), which draws more current and more power from the amp. Series adds impedance. Always check the result against your amplifier minimum rated load before plugging in.
Most professional amps are rated to a 2 or 4 ohm minimum per channel. Running below that overheats the amp and can trigger protection or damage. This tool flags when the calculated load drops under 2 ohms.
Enchant Entertainment hires and operates PA, lighting and staging for events across Perth and regional WA. Use the calculators for free, and when you need the gear and a crew on the night, we are ready.
Enchant Entertainment · Kwinana-based · Est. 2018 · $10M public liability, fully insured · ABN 55 936 767 411Planning aid from Enchant Entertainment · Get a quote · More tools