Need help?Do you have a question about the Realistic AMP-200 and is the answer not in the manual?
The Realistic APM-200 Audio Power Meter is a sophisticated instrument designed to provide precise measurements of both peak and average output power from a stereo system under real-world operating conditions. This dual-system approach ensures optimal fidelity, minimal distortion, and accurate monitoring of sound power levels.
The APM-200 features a unique dual-metering system: LED PEAK Indicators and RMS Meters.
LED PEAK Indicators: These indicators are designed to respond significantly faster than conventional meters, specifically 10 times faster. This rapid response is crucial for capturing short bursts of music energy, often referred to as "peaks," which conventional meters might miss. Music, being a complex combination of various instruments, produces sounds with varying attack times. Some instruments release energy slowly, while others, like cymbals, explode with energy in a very short duration. These sudden energy bursts are a primary cause of speaker blow-out problems in high-powered systems and can also lead to clipping distortion. The LED PEAK Indicators effectively track these short peaks, allowing users to identify and avoid dangerous power levels that could damage speakers or introduce distortion. The lit LEDs visually represent the peak level of RMS wattage being delivered at any given instant.
RMS Meters: The RMS (Root Mean Square) Meters provide an indication of the average power an amplifier is delivering over a period of time. They show how hard the amplifier is working on average, allowing users to see the actual average power being used. It's often surprising to note how loud a sound can be with only a small fraction of the amplifier's total power being utilized, as peaks and very low notes typically demand the most power. The RMS Meters are also useful for balancing a stereo system. By setting the stereo system to "mono" mode, users can adjust balance, level, and tone controls to achieve equal readings on both meters, ensuring a balanced sound output.
The device also includes a Power Selector switch, offering two power ranges: 0 to 2 watts and 0 to 200 watts. This 2-position switch, located on the right side of the meters, allows the user to select the appropriate range for their amplifier's output.
The APM-200 is designed for straightforward integration and operation within a stereo system:
Connection:
Operation:
General| Brand | Realistic |
|---|---|
| Model | AMP-200 |
| Category | Measuring Instruments |
| Language | English |
To Next Page