4 ohm taps or 8 ohm taps?

I found an interesting forum response at this url......http://en.allexperts.com/q/Audio-Systems-835/matching-amp-speaker-impedence-1.htm

Al's response covers almost all of the substance on the impact of different taps, save one issue:

Some amps have "good" sounding taps and "bad" sounding taps, regardless of the speaker load presented them. Variation in output transformer design and manufacture can be material, varying from model to model and even between examples of a given model. From your post ("tinny" treble), I wouldn't be surprised if the issue turned out to be sub par 8 ohm taps on the Ming Da.

Good Luck

Marty

BTW, the issue of manufacturing variability extends beyond taps (though it's less commonly a real problem, IME). If you test enough pre-amps, you'll eventually encounter it. Two different line level inputs on the same pre should be identical sounding, but -sometimes- this isn't the case. IME, the "sometimes" is much more frequent on output taps than on line inputs.

I agree with Al;it has always been my experience to use all available taps and then use the one that sounds the best to your ears.

..just go with what sounds the best..don't worry.

To Stringreen

So, a number of folks have suggested that if the speaker impedance curve drops below 4 ohms at places, and I am using the 4 ohm taps, it risks overstrain on the amp and amplifier damage. Is that an unrealistic concern, even if I am listening in the triode or Class A mode where output power is about 40 wt/channel? (I obviously can't find an impedance curve for these speakers)

Thanks