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Amplifier recommendations for 86 dB Sensitivity Speakers

Hi,

I’m considering a pair of Technics SB-G90M2, they have good specifications on paper; however, my only concern would be their 86 dB sensitivity. 

My current amplifier is Cayin A100t, which according to its specs, outputs 70 watts into 8ohms. the Technics are 4 Ohms; so, I assume my Amp could deliver 100-140 Watts into 4 Ohms. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find more accurate information about my amplifier, and it only shows the output power at 8 Ohms equipped with KT-88 output tubes (mine came with EL-34s), therefore, it’s unclear what the real output powerat 4 ohms is.

Wondering if this tube amplifier would be a good match for these more demanding 86 dB speakers? I’m aware of impendence fluctuations and I know the Amp can drive them just fine, but I am not sure if 100 watt per channel -assuming that’s what my Amp can deliver into 4 Ohms- would be enough for these speakers to make them sound as intended, meaning, good sound quality.

(I don’t nor am planning to listen at high volume but have a larger room with high ceilings).

Below are the specs.

Many thanks,

 

Technics SB-G90M2 Speakers 

  • Type: 3-way floorstanding speaker with bass reflex
  • Woofer: 2 x 16 cm
  • Midrange: 16 cm
  • Tweeter: 2.5 cm
  • Sensitivity: 86 dB
  • Impedance: 4 ohms
  • Frequency range: 33 Hz – 90 kHz (-10 dB)
  • Crossover frequencies: 500 Hz, 3400 Hz
  • Maximum power handling: 200 W
  • Recommended amplifier power: 40-200 W
  • Dimensions and weight: 111.4 x 29.2 x 36.6 cm / 35 kg

 

Cayin A100T Integrated Tube Amplifier 

Power output: 70 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)

Frequency response: 10Hz to 65kHz

Total harmonic distortion: 1%

Input sensitivity: 480mV (line)

Signal to noise ratio: 89dB (line)

Speaker load impedance: 4Ω to 8Ω

Valve complement: 8 x KT88, 2 x 12AU7, 2 x 6CG7, 1 x 12AX7

Dimensions: 440 x 210 x 397mm

Weight: 29kg

mamifero
mamifero OP
15 posts
 

I knew tube amps perform differently when compared to SS, but I didn’t know there wasn’t any increase in the power output when using the 4 ohms tab.

Haven’t heard these speakers but they look really well-built and seem to have the type of sound I would prefer. Unfortunately, they are big and heavy, and wanted to make sure before committing to this purchase.

mapman's avatar
mapman
23,618 posts
 

More of an issue than efficiency actually: Those are 4 ohm nominal impedance speakers, a bad match for a tube amp. 
 

Options for best performance including ability to go loud unfettered:

1)  Higher power Class a/b SS amp with high current delivery capability.   That will be larger, heavier, consume more power to operate and likely cost more.  You might even go class A which magnifies all of the above to achieve a particular SPL. 

 

2)  Class D amp with similar power capabilities.   Stability down to 2 ohm impedance is desirable (in any case for 4 ohm nominal).  Smaller, lighter and more  energy efficient.    These are all I have used now for the last 10 years or so.

 

Tube amps can be a fun alternative but only with the right speakers.   8 ohm nominal impedance or higher.   Sensitivity then comes into play mainly to determine how loud you can go.  
 

Note that tube amps and Class D amps in general tend to soft clip, which is a desirable feature in general.  

 

 

 

soix
11,250 posts
 

the Cayin will be able to output adequate power but I might be missing out their full potential. 

Exactly.  Plus pushing an amp close to its limits will sacrifice ultimate sound quality on that end as well.  It’s a bit more expensive, but I’d recommend looking at the ProAc D20 as it may share many of the same characteristics while being easier to drive.  Best of luck. 

dayglow
2,456 posts
 

You need to demo the Technics speaker before making any decision. Japanese branded speakers have(in general) a distinct sound characteristic. A modest tube amp would not be the best match on paper with the Technics loudspeaker.

dekay's avatar
dekay
6,216 posts
 

This was taken from your 2018 thread:

"I moved from a small space to a very large 950 sqft loft with 15 ft ceilings."

This is important info if this is still your space (especially the ceiling height).

 

DeKay

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