Low voltage operation does not mean low-power. This amplifier can produce a full eight watts into a standard four or eight ohm "load"; such as a speaker. Actually; it can deliver up to 11 watts if you use a 16 volt supply. You may use this amplifier with a wide range of power supplies; from 5 volts to 20 volts. The IC has built-in current limiting and over-heating protection. An ideal building block for use with many other projects. The audio quality is excellent.