Amplifier and speaker pairing guide (XGA-5000)

When you run a passive PA system, matching the amplifier to the speakers is one of the most important choices you make. Get it right and everything runs clean and safe. Get it wrong and you risk weak output or damaged gear.

Focus on RMS power

RMS (root mean square) is the spec that matters most, and it is the one people most often misunderstand. Measured in watts, it tells you how much power a speaker can comfortably handle over a sustained period. You will also see it called continuous or nominal power.

When you pair an amp and speakers, work from the RMS ratings, not peak numbers.

Match the amp to the speakers

Start by finding the RMS power rating of your power amplifier. Take the Gemini Sound XGA-5000 as an example: it is rated at 2 x 400W RMS at 8 ohms.

Here is what that means. The XGA-5000 pushes a maximum clean 400W per channel into an 8-ohm speaker. So you would pair it with an 8-ohm speaker that can handle up to 400W RMS. That way each speaker gets the power it is built for, with room to run clean.