In most cases when using a 16 ohm speaker in an 8 ohm amp, there is usually a slight difference in the way the speaker and amplifier operate. This operation affects the voltages, currents, and power in the system, bringing their difference in operation.
The good part of this operation is that it cannot fail due to its interchangeable units. A correct connection between the speaker and the amplifier gives you the expected results.
Briefly, my article gives you a breakthrough on how to navigate around and get pure gold on how this connection operates effectively without causing harm. Frequently asked questions and conclusions are there for your benefit.
How to use 16 ohm speaker in 8 ohm amp
On the way, how to use a 16 ohm speaker in an 8 ohm amp is quite easy. When you follow this important principle, I assure you will get a pure diamond out of it. The important methods include connecting the speaker and the amplifier in series and parallel, sound quality and impedance, and finally power. I recommend you check the few techniques I am showing you.
Three methods on how to use 16 ohm speaker in 8 ohm amp;
| Techniques to use | functions | Essential products |
| Connecting in series and in parallel | pitch quality | |
| Sound quality and impedance | power consumption | |
| Power | test sound |
I. Connecting in series and parallel
The connection between the speaker and amp can be acted in two different forms that are connected in series and parallel. So, I am describing how to manage the connection and bring out accurate results.
Wiring the speaker and amp in series and in parallel, you should acknowledge that the total amount of ohms in the speaker must be equal or greater than the amp ohms.
Connecting the speaker and the amp in series and in parallel give us different results even when you use the values. Note that parallel speakers are louder than series speakers and always best for sound quality.
1. Series connection
- Connecting a speaker in series tends to decrease the amount of electrical current it can flow given that there is an increase in the total impedance acting as the load.
- Hence, the sound quality of a series connection is poor and it is not clear. This is caused by the crossover cables in the series connection blocking unwanted frequencies from reaching the speakers.
- Crossover cables include capacitors and inductors. By understanding how the crossover frequencies work you will know how series connection results in bad quality sound.
- The same connection speakers have lower power and volume because the power delivered in them is divided in different sections and the ohm’s speaker is high, lowering current from the amp.
- Series speakers add up in and don’t forget they are easy to hook and even provide safety for amps.
2. Parallel connection
Parallel speakers tend to produce a high volume with a greater quality sound. In parallel the voltage received between them is not shared and the current is shared creating a louder volume. Remember the ohms of the speaker divide to each speaker.
It is advisable to use a speaker with higher ohms. This connection creates good production of sound in terms of the volume, the maximum power it produces and its sound quality.
One advantage of the speakers and amp connected in parallel is that when one speaker fails, others can continue operating well while the defects include the parallel connection to have more amp channels to enable quality.
II. Sound quality and impedance
An amp communicates with the speaker by sending an AC current to the speaker and mostly impedance varies according to frequencies audio signals. Not many speakers vary in impedance according to their mode and specifications.
If found that the speaker has lower impedance than expected then an amp will have to work harder to deliver a high amount of current, and this will bring a negative side effect because overheating can occur. Given the impedance is found to be higher, there is no effect to the amp as it delivers the required power.
Sound quality is determined by the range frequencies. I found the frequencies to be a flat range . The sound quality is high and it’s clear. An amp of 8 ohm can manage the frequencies of the speaker to produce quality sound with high pitch and intensity to the user.
III. Power
Power is one important aspect in sound production as it allows speakers to convert electrical to mechanical energy. As you know every speaker needs enough power to produce a higher volume and so the amp helps the speaker to get power and power signals.
The work of the amp is to send current to the speaker which turns it to sound. Many times it is good to pick an amp which is twice the speakers’ power rating. Meanwhile, I can agree that power is one important basis you should get and please understand the ratings to avoid harm.
You might be interested to read also our another comprehensive article of: How to Change a 16-Ohm Speaker to 8 Ohms-Complete Guides
Frequently asked questions;
- Can you use a 16 ohm speaker with an 8 ohm amp?
The obvious answer is yes because there is no harm and the connection is successful if done with much keenness. When a 16 ohm speaker is connected to an 8 ohm amp in parallel it will result in a nominal impedance.
Summary
Just following from what I have given above, the three methods I have explained to you on how to use a 16 ohm speaker with an 8 ohm amp is quite easy and you just need to follow the instructions carefully to achieve that goal. Don’t forget to understand the specifications they come with.
In many instances you can find that you have done almost everything and you cannot achieve the goal. Please try and conduct a professional in this field and you can get help quickly as he understands how this operates in a desired format.