Budget amplifier for parties

smallzoo

Active member
Apr 6, 2026
13
4
25
Hi
I was looking for a simple budget ( ideally bluetooth ) amplifier so my daughter can play her iphone at parties

My speakers are I guess vintage now Tannoy Mercury which I love..so I tried connecting an AK45 amp from amazon

The amp seems pretty good for only £35 BUT a full volume it doesnt seem that loud.... or am I wrong

Based on the specs of the speaker and amp what am I doing wrong.. if anything



Tannoy
Tannoy.png


AK 45

AK45.png
 
this is what it said ?
  • 300W x 2 Power Output: The Romicta AK45 audio amplifier is completely redesigned to deliver a maximum output of 300W per channel (with 40W per channel as continuous power), perfectly suited for driving passive speakers from 4″ to 16″. Its compact build makes it perfect for home cinema, karaoke and multimedia sound systems, fitting seamlessly on any shelf or A/V unit.
 
Amps like that are a waste of time and money. Have you had less that 14 days? Inform Amazon you intend to return it. They are obligated to refund you.

Those aspects look like Mercury Mk2, they are nice speakers and deserve a better amp. I would look on ebay for a Marantz (plenty of other brands, but I like Marantz) from the 90s or 2000s. Expect to pay anything from £50 upwards, normally around £100, but with patience you can always find a bargain.

You will then need to add a Bluetooth receiver, you can get one for £10 to £20 on Amazon. However, I would take a look at the SMSL PS100. It is a DAC and Bluetooth receiver for £27. It's in a cheap plastic case unlike the sturdy aluminium of the SU-1, and the DAC isn't as good, but it's very good for the price. And adding a DAC to an old amp can always come in handy.

In time you may want to add a streamer. For £80 the WiiM Mini is a considerable step up from Bluetooth.
 

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