Amp & Speaker matching


How important is it to match impedance on amps and speakers? I own Manley Mahi monoblocks and the specs show power ratings for both 4 and 8 ohm. Can I use 12 ohm or 16 ohm speakers and what would it do - reduce output, damage to amp or speakers...
r_burke

Showing 1 response by ghostrider45

Not sure I agree with Larryi.

The output transformer in a tube amp reflects the load impedance back to the the tubes. If you use speakers rated at a higher impedance than the output transformer impedance things will be ok. You will just get lower output.

If the speaker impedance is lower than the output transformer impedance then the tubes will draw more current than if the impedances were matched.

Whether or not this is a problem depends on the amp's design limits. Consequences range from none to damage such as blown output transformer, blown tubes, or worse, depending on amp and the amount of the impedance mismatch.

Check with your amp manufacturer for advice.