What is impedance in audio?

Impedance in audio refers to the resistance that electrical signals encounter when passing through a circuit or device. It is typically measured in ohms and can affect the overall performance and quality of audio equipment.

In audio systems, impedance matching is important to ensure that the output impedance of a device matches the input impedance of another device it is connected to. When impedance is mismatched, issues such as signal loss, distortion, or poor frequency response can occur.

Impedance is particularly important when connecting microphones, speakers, amplifiers, and headphones in an audio setup. It can impact the overall sound quality and efficiency of the system.

In general, low impedance devices (around 4-16 ohms) are better suited for connecting to high-power amplifiers, while high impedance devices (around 100-600 ohms) are more common in professional audio equipment like headphones and microphones.

Understanding impedance in audio can help audio engineers and enthusiasts optimize their setups for the best possible sound quality.