2. amps-preamps
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Same watts at 8 and 4 ohms?

I'm in the market for an integrated amp and trying to sort through tech specs. My understanding of the tech aspects of hi-fi gear is limited. Looking for some clarity in regard to watts-per-channel specs.

It is my understanding that wpc at 4 ohms is typically 1.5x -2x the wpc at 8 ohms.

But I'm seeing a number of respectable mid-fi integrateds with the same wpc for both 8 and 4 ohms. The NAD 388 is one and I think this is true for several of the Cambridge Audio units at a similar price point ($1500-$2000).

The NAD features make a point of saying " 4-ohm stable for use with a wide range of speakers". 

Would appreciate any insight to what these specs mean and what 4 ohm stable really means to me. My speakers are 4 ohm speakers.

Thanks,

George
n80

Showing 4 responses by twoleftears

twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,326 posts
 
Have you looked at the Rogue Sphinx v3?
Have you checked out Vincent integrated models?

90 is above average; 4 dropping to 3 is a bit below average.

Poorly engineered amps will be uncomfortable with that impedance.

If you deal with Crutchfield, Audio Advisor, Music Direct, and no doubt others, you'll have a generous audition period.


twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,326 posts
 
Creek Evolution 100A.  About as self-effacing as they come.
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,326 posts
 

So to summarize: you want integrated, ideally compact and user friendly, well engineered, sounds good, and able to drive speakers rated at 4 ohms dropping to 3 at points.

twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,326 posts
 

Where's @georgehifi when you need him?

NAD and McIntosh are engineered differently, so conventional expectations do not apply.  This may be a good thing or a bad thing.

If well engineered a conventional Class A/B amp should double or nearly double into 4ohms.

Other classes of amp bring different expectations.

But it's really an extensive and complicated subject.

Better to ask about specific brands/models.

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