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An ignorant question about impedance

I've read over these many years about the importance of properly matching a preamplifier's output impedance with an amplifier's input impedance. I've always just accepted this as something that has got to be dealt with by folks who understand such things. But now I'm wondering: What happens when there is a mismatch? Is there some threat to the equipment, or does the reproduction of music suffer in some obviously discernable fashion? (Highs or lows or mids are like this or that or some such?) I recognize that this is a boneheaded query, but I've found myself wondering and I've not been able to find the answer through my online searches. If someone could point me in the right direction, my non-technical mind would rest easier. Thanks.
hodu

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hodu OP
312 posts
 
Thanks so much for your clear and thoughtful responses. Back in college (in the 1970s) when I was spending a bit of time studying English literature and journalism (and a lot of time drinking beer) I used to wonder what those guys over in the engineering building were up to. I'm betting now that some of them were learning about impedance and all that kinda stuff. I've got some reading (and listening) to do. Maybe, just maybe, I'll ask one o' these days about cartridge loading. Thanks, again.
You guys are all right. -- Howard
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