How much mis-match can an OT take?

[bereanbill]

Ok...I have a SE amp, 1 x EL84, 1 x 12AX7, diode rectifier...it has an OT designed for 16 ohms. Am I safe running it into an 8 ohm speaker?

 

[kevinkr]

It's probably safe, it will just sound really BAD..

 

[ray_moth]

I agree with Kevin, if the EL84 is running as a pentode. If it's in either ultra-linear or triode connection, then the load impedance would be less critical and you might find it doesn't sound too bad; however, you will lose some power.

 

[Johan Potgieter]

Er ... well ...

Respecting Kevin, but my take is that it will more likely limit the maximum output (which is already low) than generate severe distortion. But it depends for what value of primary impedance the 16 ohms is valid. Hopefully that is on the high side.

 

[Johan Potgieter]

To follow:

I notice you ask about the mismatch of the OPT. Just a small point, perhaps unnecessary: It is not really that the mismatch concerns the OPT, but the tube itself. Within limits the transformer simply 'supplies' an impedance ratio.

 

[kevinkr]

Nothing speaks to this like direct experience and I have tried it with both triode and pentode connected SE EL84 amplifiers, and I believe the reduced output power is the least of your problems. Distortion IMHO was intolerable (to me) - however I am noted for liking relatively undistorted sound, tube or otherwise..

Note: I haven't done this experiment on more than a few console amplifiers and a few DIY types so your experience could be different.

Think about driving a 1.5K load SE with a 6BQ5 and you might see an issue.

 

[Johan Potgieter]

OK Kevin, accepted then. I have little practical experience of SE in this manner.