Class D and High Efficiency Speakers?


G'day guys,

I'm just curious at this stage (not allowed to change yet) about using class d amps such as the Nuforce ref 9 with 98db efficient horn speakers. Obviously being such high efficiency they only need a couple of watts (I'm currently using 300b mono-blocs). Will they have adverse effects or over power the speakers?

What are peoples thoughts?
warnsey1

Showing 1 response by atmasphere

High Efficiency speakers in general prefer an amplifier with a relatively high source impedance, due to the reactive nature of high efficiency drivers.

The use of low output impedance amplifiers with high efficiency drivers is the reason why horns have a reputation for being strident.

If you really are intent on this, add an 8-ohm resistor in series with the speaker load. True, you will dissipate likely up to 50% of your power in the resistor, but it will simulate (somewhat) a higher source impedance.

Or- you could get a tube amp. You won't need a lot of power. In the case of a high efficiency speaker, a good tube amp will clean the clock of any class D amplifier made.