4Ω speakers useable with 6Ω tuner?

  • Thread starter dyaballikl
  • Start date
In summary, the conversation discusses the compatibility of a new home theater tuner with speakers of a different impedance. It is mentioned that solid-state amps can be sensitive to impedance mismatches and may cause damage to the output transistors. The solution suggested is to get a pair of 8 ohm speakers or wire speakers in series to create an 8 ohm load. It is also noted that tube-driven amps can handle low-impedance loads better.
  • #1
dyaballikl
3
0
I just got a new home theater tuner with outputs that say 6Ω, but the speakers I have are 4Ω. Can these speakers be used with this tuner?
 
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  • #2
If the tuner is solid-state (I assume it is, and it's actually a receiver, combining the functions of a tuner and an integrated amplifier), you have an impedance mismatch that might wreck the output transistors. Tube-driven amps can handle low-impedance loads pretty well, but solid-state amps can be pretty touchy about that. Solid-state amps are much happier with loads that are higher-impedance than their nominal rating.
 
  • #3
thank you for replying. does this mean that there is no solution to make these speakers work with this tuner?
 
  • #4
If you can get another pair of 4 ohm speakers AND wire them in series, you'll have an 8 ohm load on each channel and your output transistors will be happy. You could also wire a passive resistive load in series with each of those speakers, though I can't vouch for the sound quality. Your best bet is to get a pair of decent 8 ohm speakers (most common impedance) that are rated to handle the output power of the amp.
 
  • #5
turbo-1 said:
If you can get another pair of 4 ohm speakers AND wire them in series, you'll have an 8 ohm load on each channel and your output transistors will be happy. You could also wire a passive resistive load in series with each of those speakers, though I can't vouch for the sound quality. Your best bet is to get a pair of decent 8 ohm speakers (most common impedance) that are rated to handle the output power of the amp.

So, speaker ohms can be higher, got it. I'll get some 8 ohm'ers then, thanks!
 

1. What is the difference between 4Ω and 6Ω speakers?

The difference between 4Ω and 6Ω speakers lies in their impedance, which is the measure of resistance to an alternating current (AC) signal. 4Ω speakers have a lower impedance than 6Ω speakers, which means they will draw more current from the amplifier.

2. Can I use a 4Ω speaker with a 6Ω tuner?

Yes, you can use a 4Ω speaker with a 6Ω tuner. The tuner's impedance rating is a minimum requirement, meaning it can handle speakers with higher impedance ratings, such as 4Ω. However, it is important to check the power handling capabilities of both the speakers and the tuner to ensure compatibility.

3. Will using a 4Ω speaker with a 6Ω tuner affect the sound quality?

It is possible that using a 4Ω speaker with a 6Ω tuner may affect the sound quality. As mentioned before, 4Ω speakers draw more current from the amplifier, which may cause the amplifier to work harder and potentially affect the sound quality. It is important to properly match the impedance of the speakers and tuner for optimal sound quality.

4. Can using a 4Ω speaker with a 6Ω tuner damage my equipment?

Using a 4Ω speaker with a 6Ω tuner should not damage your equipment. However, if the speaker's power handling capabilities are exceeded, it may cause damage. It is important to check the power handling ratings of both the speakers and the tuner to ensure compatibility and prevent any damage.

5. How do I know if a 4Ω speaker is compatible with my 6Ω tuner?

The best way to determine if a 4Ω speaker is compatible with your 6Ω tuner is to check the power handling ratings of both. The speaker's power handling should be equal to or greater than the tuner's power output. It is also important to consider the impedance and sensitivity ratings of both the speakers and tuner for optimal compatibility and sound quality.

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