Amplifier Input Impedance


Why are so many high-power solid state amps designed with such low input impedances. Doesn't that really low input impedance limit the range of pre amps that can be used? Are there technical reasons why designers make these impedances so low? Why not design your muscle amp with a really high input impedance so it will potentially work well with all pre amps?
stickman451

Showing 4 responses by jmcgrogan2

I think the obvious answer is that the SS amp designer would prefer that you also buy their SS preamp. Yes, SS amps usually have lower input impedances than their tube brethren, but SS preamps usually have much lower output impedances than their tube counterparts. The SS amp designer does not really want you to use a tube preamp with their amp.
02-11-14: Bombaywalla
How come Almarg hasn't spotted this thread as yet?? ;-)

Even the great and powerful Al needs a little vacation time every now and then. ;)
02-13-14: Almarg
John (Jmcgrogan2) & Bombaywalla, see what I meant when I said that "I don't have a good feel for what the inevitable tradeoffs would be." :-)

You're still the man in my book Al! Who wants a silly SS amp anyway....I'll take your VAC amp any day Al.....seriously....I'll take it. LOL! ;)
02-23-14: Radni
I notice on my set up ,
Preamp : Reimyo output impedance is 560 ohm ,
Power amp: AES superamp AE 25 input impedance is 150,000 ohm .
This gives ratio of 267 times . Does it mean I have a total mismatch ?

Absolutely not! The 10X rule is a MINIMUM suggested requirement. Some manufacturers, like ARC, recommend a 25X to 30X MINIMUM impedance relationship. Obviously, the higher the ratio, the less likely there will be an impedance mismatch issue. Which should help explain your wonderful results.

But I find my system sound very sweet , detailed and enjoyable .