What is Damping Factor?
Damping Factor = Speaker Impedance / Amplifier Output Impedance. A higher number means the amplifier has lower internal resistance and can better control (damp) the speaker cone’s residual motion after the signal stops — eliminating “overhang” or “ringing” in the bass.
Physical analogy: Damping factor is like brake quality on a car. Low damping = worn brake pads (bass keeps ringing). High damping = ceramic brakes (bass stops precisely on command).
Damping Factor Listening Guide
| Damping Factor | Subjective Bass Quality | Suitable Woofer Size |
|---|---|---|
| <50 | Loose, uncontrolled, boomy | 6-inch or smaller only |
| 100-300 | Acceptable for general HiFi | Up to 8-inch |
| 500-700 | Tight, controlled, articulate | Up to 12-inch (AA3PRO, AA2PRO, A12PRO) |
| 800 | Reference-level precision | 12-inch+ (A12 PURE) |
| >1000 | Studio/measurement grade | Large pro monitors |
TRASAM Damping Factor Comparison
| Model | Damping Factor | Best Woofer Size Match |
|---|---|---|
| A12 PURE | 800 | 12-inch+, large floorstanding |
| AA3PRO | 700 | 12-inch floorstanding |
| A12PRO | 700 | 10-12 inch floorstanding |
| AA2PRO | 700 | 8-10 inch bookshelf/small tower |
| A11PRO | 500 | Up to 8-inch bookshelf |
Why TRASAM Amplifiers Have High Damping
Typical integrated amplifiers in the $500-$1,000 range have damping factors of 200-300. TRASAM achieves 500-800 through high-current output stage design and precision negative feedback circuits. This is a deliberate engineering choice to maintain bass control with large-diameter, low-sensitivity speakers — exactly the kind of speakers that benefit most from TRASAM’s high-power designs.
