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Question about set amps and low sensitivity spkrs

Hi, In about 3 weeks I will take ownership of an 18wpc SET integrated. I currently run an Arcam SS amp with B&W 602 S2 speakers and I'm still undecided about new speakers (more sensitive, tube friendly) to mate with my new amp. My question is, can I run my current 90db sensitive B&W speakers with the SET integrated without doing damage, or shortening the life of my new tubes? I'd hate to have the amp sitting in a box waiting for me to decide on new speakers :) I frequently see that B&W speakers don't mate well with tubes...why is this?
thanks
Michael
mbleming
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Only problem with the 4ohm tap is that you are going to drop the wattage quite a bit - I think.
jpstereo
53 posts
 
Do not forget Louis's Omega line of SET-friendly speakers. Outstanding!

www.omegaloudspeakers.com
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Only problem with the 4ohm tap is that you are going to drop the wattage quite a bit - I think.
Pubul57 (System | Threads | Answers)

Actually, it works the other way. Think about amps that double power output into 4 ohms. Therefore, 8 ohms halve the power versus 4 ohms. 16 ohms quarters the power, etc...
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Tvad, I thought that was they way SS usually works, but not tubes (but I'm no expert).I know when I owned the RM10 Roger Modjeski said I would loose power if I used the 4 ohm tap versus the 8 ohm, but there were advantages in terms of dampening and distortion. By the way Mbleming, what amp are you using?
newbee
4,093 posts
 
FWIW most tube amps put out the same wattage at 4 & 8 ohms. It neither doubles nor halves. 18w at 8 ohms is going to be 18w at 4 ohms.
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