High efficiency speakers vs Low, pros and cons


I've got a pair of Von Schweikert DB-100's ordered and they will be arriving soon. They are 100db efficient.

What is the purpose of high efficiency speakers other than being driven by low powered amps like SET's? Do they possess something that lower efficiency speakers do not have? They seem to point out any deficiencies in ones system. Does that make them "better" if your system is matched really well?

Just a few questions. Thanks.
richardmr

Showing 2 responses by matchstikman

I have been researching Amps and Speaker for the last few months and I would like to pass along some info here. High efficiency does not necessarily equal high sensitivity. A high sensitivity speaker may still not be efficient and it might require lots of power whereas a low sensitivity speaker might be highly efficient. SET amps like/need high sensivity speakers simply because the low wattage of SET amps cannot be heard otherwise unless they are running through high sensitivity speakers; however, what makes a high sensivity speaker efficient is the impedance swing. An 8ohm speakers that stays true and close to 8ohms as possible is an efficient speaker. Let me clarify. It takes 300 watts at 4ohms to equal the sound of 8ohms at 150 watts. SET amps are not what I would call efficient. This being the case, if the SET is connected to a speaker that swings from 8ohms, down to 4ohms, some of the frequencies will be lost, probably the lower end. This is because the SET will have to push twice as hard to pump current when the loads swings down to 4ohms. Do I have you confused? The SET needs a speakers that is steady; whether it is a steady 4ohm, 8ohm, or 16ohm, or whatever. So, in essence, you could have a speaker with an 86db sensitivity rating, but with a nomimal, steady, 8ohm requirement and therefore be efficient.

This info is why I have chosen to pick out my speakers and then pick out an amp that goes with my chosen speakers. It should work out for me.

Those Von Schweikert DB-100s, what is their impedance swing? Do they have a nomimal rating or do they go between 4 and 8 as most speakers do?

I am still a rookie at this, but I think I am somewhere in the ball park. Experts, how close am I?
Richardmr, from my humble knowledge and experience, I would have to agree with Von Schweikert on there answer. Your amp and speakers will probably sound simply fabulous.