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 mechans

The higher the impedance of the speaker the better the match with most tube amps. The "natural" output impedance of tubes is normally high and tubes don't dump current as easily as most SS amps.
The answers to your specific questions are, the output by the speaker will increase, and not be reduced. Niether the tube amp, nor speakers, will be damaged by the relatively high stated nominal impedance on your speakers.