Setting gain - why disconnect the load?

[n2audio 5,000+ posts]

I feel stupid for asking this question.

I should be smart enough to figure it out on my own. I'll probably feel even stupider after it's answered...oh well.

I've always set my gains by ear, but I figured since it's a slow day at work today I'd check them with a DMM just to see if I'm in the ballpark.

My question:

In the gain setting tutorial - before voltage is measured the speakers are disconnected -- I don't get it. If we're figuring voltage based on the impedance of the load why wouldn't we measure voltage with the load connected?

All these trees are in my way and I can't see the forest.

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[Johnny Drama 5,000+ posts]

I feel stupid for asking this question.I should be smart enough to figure it out on my own. I'll probably feel even stupider after it's answered...oh well.

I've always set my gains by ear, but I figured since it's a slow day at work today I'd check them with a DMM just to see if I'm in the ballpark.

My question:

In the gain setting tutorial - before voltage is measured the speakers are disconnected -- I don't get it. If we're figuring voltage based on the impedance of the load why wouldn't we measure voltage with the load connected?

All these trees are in my way and I can't see the forest.

The equasion is mathmatical so the voltage on the amp will be the same at where ever it is set reguardless of the load. You can set it with the speakers hooked up if you want...but it will be loud while doing it. WHen setting mids and highs 1khz tone isnt pleasent to the ear.

 

[n2audio 5,000+ posts]

Thanks - as usual I was just making it too complicated.

 

[Lakota 5,000+ posts]

Thanks - as usual I was just making it too complicated.

Yeap. I've gotten same number with and without subs connected.