Headphone Output Power into 16 Ohms (Balanced)
This is the continuous power per channel available from a balanced headphone output into a 16-ohm load.
Power into a low impedance describes the output's ability to supply current as well as voltage. More available power can provide headroom, but the headphones' sensitivity determines the level it produces. Milliwatts and watts express the same quantity on different scales.
Headphone Output Power into 16 Ohms (Balanced) — Headphone Amp
A 16-ohm rating is relevant to low-impedance headphone loads. It must belong to the balanced output, rather than a single-ended socket or speaker terminals. A high number alone does not identify the connection, and a rating at another impedance cannot be substituted for this one.
Compare continuous power per channel at the same distortion limit, gain, operating mode and number of channels driven. Peak or burst figures describe different conditions. Check the particular connector if balanced sockets have different ratings. Low-impedance headphones can still be very sensitive, so maximum power does not establish quietness or usable volume-control range.
Headphone Output Power into 16 Ohms (Balanced) — Digital Audio Player
For a portable player, the 16-ohm balanced rating helps describe drive capability with low-impedance headphones. Battery operation matters: some high-gain or desktop modes require external power and can deliver a different result. The standard configuration is the amplifier module supplied with the player.
Compare battery-powered figures under matching distortion and operating conditions, keeping any external-power result separate. Check which balanced socket was measured if 4.4 mm and 2.5 mm outputs differ. A line-output voltage or short peak-power claim cannot replace continuous headphone power. More power also does not establish longer battery life or lower noise with sensitive earphones.