Can a power amp have too much power, risking damage to a speaker?


I have a McIntosh 402, rated 400 watts continuous per channel. If I use it to drive a pair of Klipshorns or LaScala [specified to handle 100 watts continuous] or similar high-efficiency speakers, do I risk damage to such speakers? 

joelepo

Showing 1 response by katzenjammer27

I have a pair of B&W speakers that have a recommended power of 50 to 300 watts. I'm driving the pair with a 120 watt tube monoblock amp attached to each. Other than having to chase down a ground loop issue (which I solved the other night), this setup is flawless. It may be "underpowered" but sure does not sound like it. I may build two more monoblocks and Bi-amp the speakers, for now, I have no need and it sounds amazing.