Speaker impedance selection for McIntosh MC-300 ??


I have a a pair of Paradigm Studio Reference/100 v.2 hooked up to a McIntosh MC-300. The Paradigms specifications indicate that these are 8 ohm speakers. However, a review of the Paradigms in the June 2000 issue of Stereophile states "....the impedance, however, drops below 4 ohms between 55Hz and 210Hz, with a minimum value of 3 ohms at 90Hz (fig.1). A good 4 ohm-rated amplifier should be used with the speaker." My question is: The Mcintosh provides different amp output taps for 2-4 ohm speakers, 4-8 ohm speakers and speakers 8 ohms and higher. Currently I have the Paradigms hooked up to the 4-8 ohm taps. Is this the best way to hook up these speakers or should I hook them up to the 8 ohms-and-higher tap. Any advise would be appreciated.
porschedpm
Call McIntosh in NY. 800-538-6576 Ask for some technical help. Not the customer service which is Sharon ext. 244
I would hook the speakers up to the 2-4 ohms taps - you will lose a bit of power transfer, but gain in less distortion.

Salut,

Bob P.
I called McIntosh and spoke with Chuck Hinton (sp?) He was awesome and gave me technical advice on the same question you have.

I have the McIntosh MC1201's hooked to B&W Nautilus 802's Although the owners manual for the B&W states they are 8 ohm speakers, Chuck explained why they should be connected to the 4 ohm tap. He gave a long well reasoned explanation. I'll let you call him to get the scoop for your speakers.

Hope it helps.