Audio Systems: home audio receiver, home stereo receivers, ohm impedance
QuestionI have recently acquired 2 polk audio monitor 5a speakers. I am looking to set up these speakers in my room and i need something to power them. I have been looking at receivers but i do not know what to look for. I would like to be able to plug in my ipod and/or computer to be played out of the speakers. What specifications do i need to be looking for when selecting the right receiver?
AnswerThe Polk speakers you have are fine speakers. They give good sound. You will need a stereo receiver that is rated for 50w/channel or more. Some have ipod or 3.5 mm inputs, but all have rca aux inputs which an adapter will allow connection to an mp3 player of any kind.
I would recommend you look at Denon, Onkyo, Pioneer and Sony for a receiver of around $150 to $200 or so.
The speakers are 8 ohm impedance and all home stereo receivers will handle that just fine. These speakers are about 90db sensitivity which is good; a 50w amp will drive them nicely. A 100w amp will do better.
Let me know if you need more.