Quote:
Originally Posted by metaphacts
Were speakers actually 2, 4, or 8 ohms this would be a good rule of thumb. However, since we are talking impedance, not simple resistance, and since loudspeakers vary in impedance with frequency, you cannot count on the speakers manufacturer's stated impedance to be the best tap choice. The tube configuration/transformer windings are not the same amp model to amp model, amp manufacturer to amp manufacturer. So some speakers end up on different taps than "spec sheets" would suggest because those "wrong" settings are actually the correct settings, both technically and sonically.
VAC has a nice technical paper ( Can I link a white paper Ivan?) that helps to explain to the layman why the "which tap" answer is variable and not so cut and dried.
|
Agree. But I do think that what I said is a good place to start. And I think your amp must always have sufficient current to easily supply the needed watts. One thing is sure: it is amplifier stress that degrades sound. I don't ever want my amp stressing to supply current. I personally heard a Mac integrated (8 ohm tap) connected to an Alexia version 1. The bass was bloated and uncontrolled. Dealer corrected it and bass went from poor to excellent. It also helps very much to know the impedance vs frequency response.