Would a tube Scott 299B Amp be able to drive AR9LSi speakers?

[ymarko]

They are monster speakers, here’re the specs:
Power: 15-400W
Voltage Sensitivity: 2.83 volts produces 90dB SPL a 1 meter on axis
Efficiency: 1 watt produces 87dB SPL at 1 meter on axis
System Frequency Response: -3dB (half power) points at 28Hz and 32,000Hz
Impedance: 4 Ohms nominal (3.2 Ohms minimum)
Crossover Frequencies: 200Hz, 1100Hz, 5500Hz
Dimensions:51-1/8"H X 18-1/2"W X 14-11/32"D
Weight: 120lbs ea

Do you think HH Scott 299B tube stereo amp (it’s 21 or 25 wpc RMS, has 4, 8 or 16 Ohms speaker outputs) be able to open speakers and drive them? Assuming not very loud music.
Do they match sonically?

Or 299B better suitable with older and smaller speakers like Large Advent, KLH model 6 (they are 8 Ohms)?

 

[Jailtime]

I don't think it would be a good match. The AR9s are not very sensitive, and tubes are usually happier at higher loads than 4 ohms. Some old JBLs or Altecs would be a much better match. I tried a Fisher 800C at 32WPC on some Dahlquist DQ-10s. Wasn't even close to enough power to open them up. No dynamics at all. Your AR9s are nice speakers, look for a big SS power amp for them. And some nice Altecs for your Scott.

 

[mhardy6647]

Not optimal, but you might still like it.
I have a pair of AR-3s hooked to a Maggotbox push-pull EL84 stereo console amp (ca. 12 wpc) in the basement and it sounds nice for nearfield.

 

[toxcrusadr]

If you already have the gear, there's no harm in trying it out. You might get away with it at low levels. I predict the amp will be straining and the speakers will still not be out of second gear, maybe first gear. AR9's are huge, heavy, 4-way power sucking neighborhood dimming Godzillas.

 

[toxcrusadr]

Actually, that Scott is a piece of junk, send it to me for proper disposal. Just don't let one of the AR9's roll over on it like a sea elephant and crush it. :nono: