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Impedance Matching - Tube Amp/Speakers

Hi, I am not technical guy, so excuse my questions. This weekend my friend did check bias on my VTL ST-85, which I recently did buy, and he also measured my speakers Dunlavy SM-1. Multimeter showed him that they are 4 ohm spekares (althought, on paper, they should be 6 ohm). He told me that this is not good combination - 4 ohm speakers and tube amp. So, is it safe using VTL ST-85, or tube amps generally, with 4 ohms or 6 ohms speakers? I am really confused because I like sound, but also dont want damage my amp or speakers.
arzach

Showing 1 response by uru975

uru975
684 posts
 
I have Legacy Focus 20/20 and have only used tube amps with no damage. From Conrad-Johnson MV-52, to Conrad Johnson Premier 11a to now Wyetech Topaz monoblock. The question to answer is not is a tube amp a problem with four ohm speakers but how low does the impedance go. If it stays above say 3.5 ohms in general that could be fine. The Legacy's dip below that in a few spots but in areas where there is not a lot of need for energy from the amp in those spots. So while your friend is right, a solid state amp would give you more power and probably work better finding out the impedance chart for the VTL-ST-85 would provide you with the information you need.
Stereophile had a review back in February 1999. That might answer your questions.
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