Power amps

[Dharris]

My speakers are 4 ohm @85 DB recomended wpc is 70-130 wpc. When looking for an amp to power them, do I look for the 80 ohm spec or the 4 ohm spec. My current Rotel is rated at 100 wpc for 8 ohms but much higher than that for 4 ohm.

[topspeed]

4 ohm specs. An old rule of thumb to check how much current an amp delivers is to see if the wattage doubles as you cut the ohms in half. Example: 100wpc @ 8 ohm, 200wpc @ 4ohms etc. The Rotel should be a very capable amp. Why are you replacing it?

[Dharris]

I'm not replacing it (never). I was just wondering. I like to learn as much as possible.

[bturk667]

How much higher is its 4 ohm specification?
To answer your question; look at the 4 ohm spec.

[Dharris]

To answer your question; look at the 4 ohm spec.

Since my speakers are recomended for 70-130 wpc. My Rotel pumps out 200wpc @ 4ohms. This means I'm really over powered. How bad is this for my speakers?

[markw]

"If it starts to sound bad, turn it down"

Most speakers can absorb more "real world" watts than their specs indicate. This is a good thing because this can help fill out the bottom end on those occasional peak demand moments. But, common sense must prevail. Use your ears and your head.