the transient peaks that can be drawn by real speakers are by definition very short duration.
They are not an issue for the transformer. The transformer just has to re-charge the smoothing capacitor/s.
But the transient current peaks are an issue for the amplifier output stage and for the capacitance that must meet those current demands.
There are two types of output clipping whem feeding a speaker. Voltage clipping that most are aware of. And current clipping that is usually forgotten about. Some designers draw our attention to current clipping, but most builders seem to be quite oblivious to the current demands of real speakers.
They are not an issue for the transformer. The transformer just has to re-charge the smoothing capacitor/s.
But the transient current peaks are an issue for the amplifier output stage and for the capacitance that must meet those current demands.
There are two types of output clipping whem feeding a speaker. Voltage clipping that most are aware of. And current clipping that is usually forgotten about. Some designers draw our attention to current clipping, but most builders seem to be quite oblivious to the current demands of real speakers.
You're right there AndrewT, I can't recall it being discussed as a practical issue in any of the dozen or so standard audio and general linear electronics texts I've read either.
It might be interesting to see just how important the issue is by 'scoping' say, the grounded speaker lead or a small in-line resistor. Any current peaks and limits with even music programme should become visible and measurable, if the scope has the bandwidth.
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