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Sensitivity 86 v 90

I am considering an upgrade from speakers with a sensitivity rating of 90 db, 4 ohms, to larger speakers rated at 86db, 8 ohms nominal.  Same brand, PMC. My tube integrated amp is 80-112 watts triode/ultralinear, and it’s fine for my 90 db speakers.  Although, it is sometimes at around 4 o’clock on the volume control, approaching the max at 6.  I am aware of the “amp power must double for each 3db increase in volume” rule of thumb, but really have no practical experience with this.  I do like having 90 db efficiency, always assumed that meant a less powerful amp would suffice. 

   My question is, would the decreased efficiency be a concern? 

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Showing 1 response by larryi

larryi
3,754 posts
 

If the ratings are reasonably accurate (a BIG “if”), the 8 ohm load of the lower efficiency speaker might make it a better match than the higher efficiency speaker.  I generally find that an easy load is more important when it comes to tube amps.

 Not knowing the size of your room, how loud you listen to music, etc., it is hard to speculate on whether you have enough power.  I generally expect 80 watts with 86 db/w speakers would be sufficient; at least I would not rule the amp out.

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