Amp output to high?

[Transam19791]

So for the first time ever I decided to measure the output voltage on my amp for curiosity's sake. I'm using a Kenwood x801-5 and if my math is correct the output for 300 watts at 4ohms should be 34.64v. I measured 65.02 at about 50% gain. So I turned to gain to 0 and its still putting out 35.06v. where I was set sounded loud and clear and at 0 gain the sub hardly makes any noise. I feel like im missing something. I have been running this setup for a long time and never had any issues with the amp overheating or clipping or anything for that matter. Any input would be appreciated!

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[burmbuster]

Wouldn't the output be in amps instead of volts? i.e. current rather than power.

 

[1aespinoza Premium Member]

Wouldn't the output be in amps instead of volts? i.e. current rather than power.

No, it is a/c volts that power your spreakers.

 

[Transam19791]

Can anyone explain why the output is almost double at 0 gain?

 

[1aespinoza Premium Member]

Can anyone explain why the output is almost double at 0 gain?

0.2 gain means that the amp is expecting a weak signal, say around 0.2 volts to amplify. Instead it is getting 2+ volts, so it will be way louder, but it will start to distort the signal to the clipping point that damages speakers.

 

[jt4x4]

No, it is a/c volts that power your spreakers.

It is volts AND amps that "POWER" your speakers. P = I x E

 

[1aespinoza Premium Member]

It is volts AND amps that "POWER" your speakers. P = I x E

Very true, but it is easier to measure power using volts and resistance.

 

[1aespinoza Premium Member]

Very true, but it is easier to measure power using volts and resistance.

I mean set gain.

 

[Buck 5,000+ posts]

I would measure something else and see if something is wrong with your measuring tool.

 

[jt4x4]

Very true, but it is easier to measure power using volts and resistance.

I figured you knew that since you seem electrically savvy, but thought I'd clarify.

 

[Buck 5,000+ posts]

Can anyone explain why the output is almost double at 0 gain?

If you're sub isn't moving, I would think it's something about your tool. But that is quite strange.