2. amps-preamps
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Disconnecting speaker while power amp on - any dan


Something like this happened yesterday - managing to disconnect the left speaker (B&W 803S), I just missed to turn off the Rotel RB-1090. Nothing dramatic happened - there was not any “pop” sound from speaker, not the amp protection circuit was activated nor fuse burned... Probably because the preamp was turned off (or maybe on? - being upset at a moment I am not able to recall 100%..., but FOR SURE without any signal from the CD) Only my nerves suffered...

What is actually going on in such a situation, electronically speaking?

I can guess that the disconnected half (channel) of the amp “is seeing” a change in the level of resistance, unlike the other channel, still connected to the speaker. What a change is it? Is the disconnected channel “seeing” an ENDLESS resistance, or ZERO resistance?

IS THIS SITUATION HARMFULL FOR THE AMP CIRCUITS, even if no visible reaction of the amp (protection, fuses etc...)?

Electronic engeneers - any thoughts???

Thanx!!!
zormi
unclejeff
1,313 posts
 
Yes, truly bananas are better than spades.
zaikesman
3,017 posts
 
Another reason to avoid this is that you may accidentally bridge the binding posts (with your wrench, or by rotation of a spade lug) while the power is on and the speaker is still hooked up, which can sometimes zap a driver or crossover element.
limomangus's avatar
limomangus
1,426 posts
 
Blowing up your speakers or amp fuse....
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