What do RMS ratings mean exactly?

[zytariuk]

Ok, i know it's stupid question...but im confused.<P>I got <A HREF="http://www.infinitysystems.com/caraudio ... AP&Cat=MEL" TARGET=_blank>http://www.infinitysystems.com/caraudio ... Cat=MEL</A> for my front speakers and it says on the site that it's Power Handling is 75 Watts and it's Peak Power Handling is 225 Watts...<P>Does this mean that EACH speaker is getting about 75 Watts at any given time and it peaks at 225 Watts sometimes?<P>OR<P>Does this mean that BOTH speakers get an average of 75 Watts at any given time...and peaks at 225 Watts somtimes.<P>OR<P>Am i totally out in left field. Somone help ;( Thanks

[mzdspd]

the RMS rating is what the speaker can handle for an extended period of time. the peak rating is the max the speaker can handle for a short amount of time such as a strong bass hit. if you put the max to the speaker for a long time it will blow the speaker.

[zytariuk]

So when you guy to your local audio shop and see a pair of lets say infinity kappas and it says on the box "RMS Rating: 75Watts"...is that per speaker?

[Talon_66]

Yes, thats right

[Stan W.]

"RMS" is an electrical term meaning "Root Mean Square." It describes the type of math equation used to determine the "real" output. RMS is the more "truthfull" rating of any electrical output of variable voltage and frequency over time. Some people who want to hype their product only cite "peak," others cite average. However, RMS is the "gold standard" of common denominators when comparing "apples to oranges"

[marshmallow15]

to make things short....if i were you, id look for some speakers with a good rms specs...not good peak power specs...peak power is only for a short burst of power...but rms is continuous power throughout your drive.