tommyboy Posted November 11, 2008 Share Posted November 11, 2008 My receiver is switchable for either 6 or 8 ohms. At 8 ohms, it pushes 130 wpc, and at 6 ohms, it pushes 150 wpc. If I switch it to 6 ohms for the extra power, would it damage my speakers or receiver? (they're all 8 ohms) Or would I be alright? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RockOn4Klipsch Posted November 11, 2008 Share Posted November 11, 2008 You'll be fine if you switch it to the 6 ohm setting. The Ohm setting on the reciever from my understanding is more of a safety precaution so the amplifiers aren't damaged. You wont recieve any more power from the receiver as that's what your hoping for as the Ohm (resistance) is more in response to what the speakers are. Your speakers still represent 8 ohm of resistance in the circuit therefore only pulling 130 wpc @ 8 ohms. When set to 6 ohms the reciever understands there is less resistance in the circuit and that the speakers (a 6 ohm speaker) will pull greater levels of power. If you think you hear a difference then great leave it on the 6 ohm setting. If you play it at high SPL for long periods of time the safety cut off may activate and shut the system down to prevent overheating/damage. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Islander Posted November 12, 2008 Share Posted November 12, 2008 It's recommended to always use the 8 ohm setting, no matter what the impedance rating of the speakers you are using. The switch is provided to add safety in case of inadequate ventilation, which could cause the unit to run hot. The 6 ohm (or 4 ohm with certain receivers) setting reduces the voltage to the amplifier output and will cause thin sound and diminished bass. The previous poster was correct in saying that the amplifier power will not be increased at the 6 ohm setting. In fact, it will be decreased. Using a lower impedance speaker will pull more power out of the amplifier, which is why it's not a good idea to use a low-powered amplifier with low-impedance speakers. With sufficient amplifier power, low speaker impedance is not normally a problem. More info at: http://forums.klipsch.com/forums/p/12630/1005773.aspxhttp://www.audioholics.com/education/frequently-asked-questions/receiver-speaker-settings-large-or-small Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tommyboy Posted November 12, 2008 Author Share Posted November 12, 2008 Thanx for the help guys. I guess I'll just keep it at 8 ohms............. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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