2. amps-preamps
  3. 1249708738

SET with inefficient speakers

i've always wanted to hear how an SET amp would sound at home, but my speakers aren't a good match in theory. they are dali euphonia M4's. floorstanding with two 6.5" woofs. 88db 4 ohm.

however, my listening room is smaller (10'X16'), i sit very close to the speakers, and i don't listen very loud (usually around 80 db level, per recent fooling around with the radio shack meter).

anyone have success with low powered tube amps under similar situation. there is no loacal dealer to do an in-home audition, and i don't want to hassle with different speakers. thanks....
tim1
elevick
2,636 posts
 
It will work fine. 88db isn't so bad. Just don't ever expect real bass and you'll be happy.
jw94055
125 posts
 
In theory, if the speakers will give you 88db for one watt and you listen around 80 db, it will work. In theory. Try before you buy.
david12
1,454 posts
 
I drive 89db Acoustic Zen Adagios with a 22 watt 845 SET no problems, but as darkmoebius say's, it is the impedence that is the vital point. The Adagios are pretty flat and do'nt drop much below 6.5ohms. In fact, my SET had better grip on the speakers than a good 180watt SS amp I was using.

As always, I think you have to try a possible candidate in your room, with the speakers
darkmoebius
900 posts
 
Art Audio Jota - hi-power, hi-current version(different tubes, larger transformers). These amps can drive loads that very few SETs can even dream of. But, it will cost ya'... $13k new, ~$6.5k used
rockadanny
1,224 posts
 
My mains are not ver efficient at 87dB 8ohms (TMM, M's are 6") with not ruler flat impedance curve, and mfr. recommends min. 85wpc, but I have them high-passed at 85Hz, augmented with two subs. On paper not ideal, but they sound wonderful with pair of 45 watt SET monos. And loud enough for me (ave. 80-85dBs at seat). Glad I tried them out instead of being scared away by the speaker specs. Best to try if you can. It is part of the fun.
More to discover