2. amps-preamps
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Impedance Matching Preamp/Amp Assiance Pls?

I'm looking to purchase a Cary SLP-05 that has an input impedance of 100k Ohms (XLR) and a gain of 27db. My Spectron MK2 has an input impedance of 50k Ohms using the XLR inputs (which I use).

What is the consequence of using the Cary with the Spectron regarding its compatiblity relative to the impedance and gain specs? Any issues I should be aware of?

Thanks in advance for your comments.
nick778
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,678 posts
 
You need to know the OUTPUT impedance of the preamp, not the input impedance, to match it to the amp.

Kal
samaba
14 posts
 
Nick,

I think what matters is the output impedance, which is 400 ohms for the Cary SLP-05. Given the Spectron's 50K input impedance, you should be fine. The rule is 10:1.
nick778 OP
147 posts
 
Thanks. Can you explain the 10:1 rule? 10 X 400=4000 ohms and the input impedance of the Spectron it 50,000 phms. So I'm not sure I understand why everything is ok.

Also, can you provide me an example where impedances don't match well and the consequences?

Thanks again.
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