An audio power meter includes a circuit for measuring the power of an amplified audio signal outputted by an audio power amplifier to which the audio power meter is connected. The circuit generates an output signal indicative of the power of the amplified audio signal. A first bar display includes a plurality of separately illuminatable segments arranged linearly with respect to one another. Each segment of the plurality of separately illuminatable segments is responsive to the output signal of the circuit and is selectively illuminated in response thereto. When the measured power of the amplified audio signal exceeds a selected threshold power level, the amplified audio signal is attenuated.