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Why are high efficiency speakers preferred for low volume listening?

I am sure that this is a very basic principle, but as I peruse the speaker section I frequently see high efficiency speakers suggested for those who listen at "low levels." And is this another area that actually is "how easy the speaker is to drive (as related to its nominal impedance)" that is more important than the actual sensitivity number?

And for an example of what I am asking with that last sentence, I seem to remember when I was window shopping for speakers, seeing some Harbeth speakers at TMR with a sensitivity rated below 87 (I think they were rated at 86 or 85) but being referred to as "an easy load to drive." So would that mean that the Harbeth speakers would be good for low volume listening?

immatthewj

Showing 2 responses by carlsbad2

carlsbad2's avatar
carlsbad2
1,983 posts
 

I frequently say that if you have to turn your system up  to sound good, then your system sucks.  

I'm not going to say all systems with high power ss amps and 87dB speakers suck.  That would offend lots of people with very expensive systems.  But isn't it a nice coincidence that the dealer has to sell you a very expensive amp to drive your very expensive 87dB speakers.

So instead I'll say that I think the easiest way to get an awesome system is a well designed SET tube amp and some nice 98dB speakers.  No I don't care for horns.  

But once you have a great sounding system, it will sound great at 70dB and you can listen for hours on end without fatigue.  I know this sounds like a fairy tale to many.

Jerry

PS Sitting here listening this morning since 0330 and I just checked the volume with my cell phone (not calibrated) and it's showing an average of 63dB.

carlsbad2's avatar
carlsbad2
1,983 posts
 

@audiokinesis I like your answer.

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