Nominal Impedence and Amp Taps


My speakers spec sheet mentions a 4ohm nominal Impedence. My amps have 2/4/8 ohm taps, does this mean the best amp tap to use is 4ohms?

Ive always wondered this.
128x128justlisten

Showing 1 response by jim

Yes, in most instances. But if your speakers have unusually large impedance swings (like some esl's do) you can try the other taps and determine what sounds best to you. My speakers have a nominal load of 5ohms with swings from 1.5 to 32 ohms. The 4 ohm taps on my amp sound better than 8 ohms. Wish I had 2 ohm taps like you just to hear any difference.