Receiver output and Speaker input?

Question

I have a question. If I have a receiver with output 120W (@8Ohm) per channel and my speaker input (8Ohm) maximum is 100W, do you think it will work or not? If it will work, is it dangerous for the speaker 'lifetime'?

Thank you very much.

Answer 1

It will work fine.

In truth - you damage speakers by using a under-powered amp, not by over powering them.

Think of it this way: The receiver sends power that starts the driver moving out.

Then, the receiver has to send power, but with the reverse voltage to pull the driver back.  

As long as the receiver provides enough power to control the movement in both directions, you are fine.  The electromagnet does all the work.

But  a weak amp may run out of power and now the driver runs out to it's maximum extension, tearing the cone and stressing the spring (called a 'spider').

Eventually - the driver disolves from mechanical stress.

So you have a good situation - a powerful amp that can control the movement of the driver so the mechanical limits are not involved.

Answer 2

It's only a problem if you decide to crank your receiver up past 90% of max volume.

Answer 3

It will work but you stand a good chance of doing serious and permanent damage to your speakers, IF you do not have self-control enough not to max out the volume.

You _could_ get L-Pads for your speakers and limit the input to at or below their rated power.

Answer 4

It will work fine. The receiver at 120 watts is a continuous rating - meaning it will produce 120 watts all day long at an acceptable distortion rating. Your speakers can handle 100 watts as a maximum power input. I imagine the continuous power rating for your speakers is about 50-60 watts. That means that if you power your speakers at 50-60 watts they should run all day just fine. Now, 50-60 watts is not a low volume - it is very high. Most people misunderstand power levels as compared to decibel levels(sound pressure). If you turn it up to where your hearing 50-60 watts, I'm sure it will be more that loud enough and it will certainly fill a good sized room with plenty of sound.