Too Much Power?


I have a question that relates to the maximum power output of new Bel Canto Ref 600M monoblocks, which I am considering to replace the Audio Research 150.2 SS amp I am currently using in my main system. (Yes I am another of the "lunatic fringe" who enjoys the results of good quality Class D.)

The Ref 600Ms are  based on a Hypex Ncore module, and are stated to produce a maximum power output each of 300W into 8 ohms.  My question  is whether this can prove to be a problem in powering my Focal Alto Utopia Be speakers, which are stated to have a "maximum" power handling capacity of 250W each (their nominal impedance being 8 ohms).

I listen to mostly classical instrumental and vocal music and other acoustic instrumental music, and do not listen at particularly loud levels:  the ARC 150.2 is rated at 150W per channel into 8 ohms and it has never in 10 years appeared to go even close to its limits; I rarely if ever  turn up the volume control on my ARC LS-25 past the 11:00 o'clock position.

Should I be concerned about the Bel Cantos damaging the Utopias, given the speakers' 250W per channel maximum capacity and the 300W per channel output potential of these amps?  The Be tweeter and other components of these speakers can be very expensive to have to repair, not to mention the inconvenience and aggravation which I really do not need. 

Thanks in  advance for any thoughts or advice on this.

northernfox

Showing 2 responses by georgehifi

northernfox
As I tried to outlined in my first post Steve, with these Utopia Be speakers, you need current more that watts, as they are 92db efficient 100watts at 8ohm will do.
But with that 2 ohms and 3ohms in the bass you need current, so when it hits those loads you will have close to 400watts available, if you pick the right amp, KRELL like power, look for amps that almost double their 8ohm wattage  to 4ohms and double again down to 2ohms

Cheers George
Your Focal’s have a wicked impedance 3ohms at two power hungry points 80hz and 500hz, and a real bad -phase angle at 60hz which could equate a EPDR of 2ohms. Which is not real good good for a Class-D amp if you like to pump it up a little.
I think a Krell/D’agostino type amp, with great current ability would be best for these in these bass power hungry regions.

http://www.stereophile.com/images/archivesart/FJUFIG1.jpg

Cheers George