Sansui 551- probable newbie mistake

[DMcB123]

Hi, I have been (slowly) working my way to a starter vintage setup. I purchased a 551 a few months back, I replaced the lamps and cleaned the pots but haven't touched capacitors. I'm looking forward to doing that but haven't soldered before so that should be a fun thing to learn.

Here's my probable mistake, but I haven't been able to find the specs to confirm it: I found some speakers that were given high marks around these parts so I bought them and then I had a nice time re-foaming them (another first). I already had a turntable so I'm ready to go! Only I think the speakers are too much for this 551. They are Design Acoustics PS-10. Three-way speakers that appear to support 250 watts (but that's one of the things I'm unable to confirm).

I realize I likely may have stumbled headlong into a bad match while thinking I was taking my time.

Does anyone have any insight they'd be willing to share?

 

[AnalogueBen]

Just did a brief google search on your ps-10's, they are 8ohm (good for this amp) and require an amplifier of 15-250 watts, the 551 has a claimed output of 16 watts. So you will be able to play them but exercise a little care for the amp

 

[DMcB123]

Just did a brief google search on your ps-10's, they are 8ohm (good for this amp) and require an amplifier of 15-250 watts, the 551 has a claimed output of 16 watts. So you will be able to play them but exercise a little care for the amp

That's nice of you AnalogueBen, thanks for the effort. For whatever reason I wasn't able to find solid numbers for the required wattage of the amp- I think the terminology started to get mixed up in my head after many different permutations.

I'm not sure how comfortable I feel that the tolerance restrictions are so close.

thanks again

 

[Hyperion]

I'm not sure how comfortable I feel that the tolerance restrictions are so close.

Your speakers won't hurt your amplifier and vice-versa. The reason for specifying a power range for the speakers is so that the speaker drivers can be energised sufficiently to sound their best. Your amplifier might be just a little underpowered for them - but try it and see, you might be surprised with how nice it sounds.

If your particular amplifier just doesn't sound loud enough, and you have to overdrive it to get more volume, this is when you might damage your amplifier or speakers.

 

[DMcB123]

Your speakers won't hurt your amplifier and vice-versa. The reason for specifying a power range for the speakers is so that the speaker drivers can be energised sufficiently to sound their best. You amplifier might be just a little underpowered for them - but try it and see, you might be surprised with how nice it sounds.

If your particular amplifier just doesn't sound loud enough, and you have to overdrive it to get more volume, this is when you might damage your amplifier or speakers.

Thank you! I had read about clipping when the amp isn't powerful enough for the speakers, and that it could damage the tweeters. I have listened and I really enjoy them (now I need to upgrade my turntable), and also I've grown attached to them after working on them. Plus the speakers have a nice design.

 

[Hyperion]

Great news! your amplifier will be fine even if somewhat overdriven by an input, like a modern CD player for example, providing you keep the volume at moderate levels or below. However in this condition the danger times will be parties (if you have them) and party guests helpfully? turning up the volume when you are not looking. Or any time when you feel like really exercising your speakers with some very loud music.