Impedance mismatch
Connecting an amplifier's output to a speaker load of a different impedance than the output is designed for.
A valve amplifier has taps on its output transformer for particular speaker impedances, and connecting to the wrong one changes the voltages inside the amp and the power it can safely deliver. Running a lower impedance than specified stresses the output valves and transformer, while running higher than specified is usually less dangerous but alters tone and output. Solid-state amplifiers tolerate a wider range but will shut down or overheat into too low a load, which is why the rated figure should always be checked before connecting anything.
Example: Running an eight ohm amplifier output into a four ohm cabinet without using the matching output tap is an impedance mismatch.
See also
Related
- PageOhms
- PageSpeaker cable
- PageWattage
- PageAmp in a box
- PageAmp stand
- PageAttenuator
- PageAaron Dessner
- PageAce Frehley