Thanks alot. Stereophile review is saying "VTL-85 is optimized for a load of around 5 ohms (85Wpc)" so 6 ohms Dunlavy SM-1 speakers (with a 3-10 ohm range) should be no problem, is it right? But why my friend's multimeter measured 4 ohms on Dunlavys when they should be 6 ohms? Or this multimeter checking is not optimal and values are only approximate?
Impedance Matching - Tube Amp/Speakers
Hi, I am not technical guy, so excuse my questions. This weekend my friend did check bias on my VTL ST-85, which I recently did buy, and he also measured my speakers Dunlavy SM-1. Multimeter showed him that they are 4 ohm spekares (althought, on paper, they should be 6 ohm). He told me that this is not good combination - 4 ohm speakers and tube amp. So, is it safe using VTL ST-85, or tube amps generally, with 4 ohms or 6 ohms speakers? I am really confused because I like sound, but also dont want damage my amp or speakers.
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- 16 posts total
What you are reading with the multimeter is the speaker's impedance at a frequency of zero Hertz, or in other words its DC resistance. That will differ significantly from its impedance at audio frequencies, which is what matters. According to this review "impedance is shown as 3 to 10 ohms, with 6 ohms nominal, which should be an easy load for most amplifiers to drive." I don't think there is any cause for concern, especially given that the amp is rated to drive 4 ohms continuously, and is specified for a recommended load of 3 to 8 ohms. Regards, -- Al |
It is worth mentioning that the impedance of the speaker will affect the sound and control the amplifier has. You may notice a bit of extra bloom in the bass or loss of control. Not a big concern but you could try the different outputs on the back of the amp (presuming they give you a choice) and use the one you like best. fwiw... |
- 16 posts total