2. amps-preamps
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Too Much Power?

I have a question that relates to the maximum power output of new Bel Canto Ref 600M monoblocks, which I am considering to replace the Audio Research 150.2 SS amp I am currently using in my main system. (Yes I am another of the "lunatic fringe" who enjoys the results of good quality Class D.)

The Ref 600Ms are  based on a Hypex Ncore module, and are stated to produce a maximum power output each of 300W into 8 ohms.  My question  is whether this can prove to be a problem in powering my Focal Alto Utopia Be speakers, which are stated to have a "maximum" power handling capacity of 250W each (their nominal impedance being 8 ohms).

I listen to mostly classical instrumental and vocal music and other acoustic instrumental music, and do not listen at particularly loud levels:  the ARC 150.2 is rated at 150W per channel into 8 ohms and it has never in 10 years appeared to go even close to its limits; I rarely if ever  turn up the volume control on my ARC LS-25 past the 11:00 o'clock position.

Should I be concerned about the Bel Cantos damaging the Utopias, given the speakers' 250W per channel maximum capacity and the 300W per channel output potential of these amps?  The Be tweeter and other components of these speakers can be very expensive to have to repair, not to mention the inconvenience and aggravation which I really do not need. 

Thanks in  advance for any thoughts or advice on this.

northernfox
randy-11
1,913 posts
 
no


but feel free to send them to me
sfall
346 posts
 
You really never have to worry about too much power. Thats what the volume control is for. If you push a speaker too hard, it's very easy to hear.
melbguy1
1,438 posts
 
I agree with sfall. I mean, I have seen a strong amp (Boulder) over-drive small 2 way speakers (YG Carmel 1’s), but the Carmel 1’s are not true full range speakers. I’d recommend picking up a reasonably accurate DB meter to monitor DB levels. You can even download paid Iphone apps which will do a decent job. That is cheap insurance for your speakers & ears.
auxinput
2,920 posts
 

Hah, putting a Boulder against a small 2-way is almost like plugging your main speakers straight in the 120V wall A/C! lol.

That being said, I’m sure this has been stated many times before, but it is always better to have an amp more powerful than what the speaker needs rather than having an amp under-powered. With under-powered amps, you are more at risk for things such as burning out the tweeters because the amplifier is clipping (i.e. sending DC to the speaker) during large transient signals such as bass. Also, with the larger power supply in your Ref 600’s, you’ll be able to get better/quicker transient (such as bass hits).

BTW, I’m running 1,000 watt monoblocks to my 6-1/2" B&W 805D2 speakers and never had a problem! Everything comes across clean, strong and crystal clear!

melbguy1
1,438 posts
 
Auxinput, Agreed re: the dangers of under-powering speakers, especially power hungry speakers like my old Infinity Ren 90’s which had the Watkins dvc woofers. I’ve seen more than one vintage pair show up on Ebay with burnt aluminium traces (a tell tale sign of fried tweeters).
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