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Low power amps and speaker damage?

I've always read that low power amps are more likely to damage speakers than high powered ones (provided they're not overdriven).  This normally in threads where a member asks something like:  Will my 200 watt amp damage my speakers rated at 100 watts?

I've driven several 86db, or thereabouts, efficient speakers with just a few watt tubed amps and have never damaged my speakers.

Was I just lucky or is it I didn't push the speakers into loud enough volume for the low watts to damage the drivers?

Thanks, and stay safe.

Mamoru
128x128audiodwebe
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fatdaddy2
372 posts
 
86dB?  That ain't loud!  (Unless it's coming from your iPod!)
crustycoot
622 posts
 
I’ve seen my share of fused voice coils on all manner of drivers, from el cheapo to Wilson Audio, and the culprit is almost always the same...inebriation, ignorance, and raging hormones.  Technically, it’s clipping that does it, as stated very clearly by many above.  But it’s not understanding the consequences of distortion and being dulled to the awareness of it occurring that is the human cause.  Hormones?  That’s when you want your HiFi to perform like a nightclub sound system to impress the dancing crowd.  In the AM...no tweets!
jchiappinelli's avatar
jchiappinelli
117 posts
 
If you’re listening at levels that result in clipping, you should be worried about damaging your ears not your speakers.

J.Chip
ejr1953
911 posts
 
J.Chip: well said!
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