2. speakers
  3. 1305574021

Newbie question: Amplifiers, Volume, Clipping?

I've just got my first proper stereo. It's a bit of a mixed bag of used gear and the speakers + amp aren't ideally matched. I'm continually concerned about blowing something by turning it up too much. The issue isn't too much amp power, it's too little, which I've heard is more dangerous. I need to know what I should be listening for as far as signs of clipping and how high I can turn my volume dial to be safe (noon? 3 o'clock?)

The pieces:
Xindac integrated tube amplifier. 40 Watts Pentode, 18 Watts Triode. (I've been too worried to try 18Watt Triode...)

Old Celestion Ditton 442s. "Amplifier requirements" are 20-120 watts and sensitivity is: "2.9 Watts of pink noise input produces 90dB SPL at one meter...".

Grateful for advice!
fakr

Showing 1 response by fakr

fakr OP
1 posts
 
Clipping is far less of an issue with tube amps
This is good news. The only thing that I worry about is that I won't hear the clipping (which could silently damage a pair of classic old speakers). What should I be listening for?

Usually maximum gain is around 1 PM on the volume control but if your source is lower in output than usual it may be higher and vice versa.

On Pentode I've been wanting to push it further than 1pm. Should I just not? I've had it at about 3 o'clock without any problems that I could hear...but I guess it depends on the recording...? I don't know how to gauge whether I'm at a threshold or not, though.

If it starts clipping, will I know it? If this happens will my speakers be ruined?
More to discover