The Consumer Electronic Association published standard CEA-2006 on may 28, 2003, “Testing and Measurement for Mobile Audio Amplifiers.” This standard regulate the same method for determining an amp’s RMS power and S/R or signal to noise ratio. Using 14.4 volts, RMS watts are measured into a 4-ohm impedance load at 1% THD or Total Harmonic Distortion plus noise, at a frequency range, for general purpose amps, of 20Hz to 20,000Hz. The signal-to-noise ratio is measured in weighted absolute decibels or dBA at a reference of 1 watt into 4 ohms. This standard applies on both in-dash receiver’s amps and external amps.
With The CEA-2006, the consumer are able to compare car amps and receivers on an equal basis. Manufacturers using this standard can place the CEA-2006 logo which showing “Amp Power Standard CEA-2006 Compliant.”
