Are watts additive?

[Rumblefisher]

I know this is probably a simplistic question but I tried a search and couldn't find an answer:

Are watts additive? In other words, do 2 500 watt amps plugged into 2 cabinets = 1 1000 watt amp?

Let's say I had 2 4x10 cabs and each one was attached to a separate 500 watt amp, would that be the equivalent of an 8x10 plugged into a 1000 watt amp?

Thanks.

 

[Musky]

Yes, you'll have 1000w.

Though it's worth bearing in mind that, all other things being equal, 1000w isn't twice as loud as 500w. You'll need 10 times the power for that.

 

[Schecter4]

In other words, do 2 500 watt amps plugged into 2 cabinets = 1 1000 watt amp?

(2) 500w amps plugged into (2) cabinets should make the same sound level as the same (2) cabinets plugged into a 1000w amp.

 

[Honk'n_down-low]

Two Words:

Ear plugs

 

[chadds]

Two Words:

Ear plugs

What?

 

[rodl2005]

Small stages & acoustic drums & cymbals = ear plugs too

 

[John Bigboote]

When I saw the subject line, I thought it said, "Are watts addictive?"

Anyway, yeah. They're additive, too.

-jb

 

[vinxbass]

I don't know if watts are addictive. I went from a 1,200 watt rms Carvin BX1200 to a 500 watt rms Carvin BX500. I like the sound of the BX500 better than I do of the BX1200. I guess my answer would be no they aren't addictive, at least to me they aren't.

 

[warnergt]

I misread the title. I thought you said "Are watts addictive?"

That answer would be "yes."

 

[B-string]

Watts are only "addictive" if you have a fedish for numbers? I prefer sound myself

 

[funkalicious101]

Watts are only "addictive" if you have a fedish for numbers? I prefer sound myself

Your fetish certainly is not for letters either.

 

[B-string]

Your fetish certainly is not for letters either.

Hate them