Is anyone here running a low power amp (2-3 wpc) w/the 5s or Alnico 6s?? I really like the Decware Zen Select but am concerned w/the 93 db sensativity. Does having no crossover allow the speaker to play louder than it's rated sensativity? My current speakers are rated about 92-93 db w/ a coil on the 2X5" carbon fiber drivers and a cap on the tweet and a Zen will clip at 90db peaks @ 6' in my room. I sure would like another 6db at least.
Thanks for sharing all the wisdom around here.
~Lary
It would work well with some music at lower volumes, but you'd be limiting yourself, IMO. I think this amp would be better suited:
http://www.decware.com/newsite/SE34I.htmI will warn you I'm biased, as I chose a EL34 SET for my 4.5" XRS that I DIY'ed from a Simple SE PCB. I've compared it to quite a few other single driver and conventional systems, and am convinced it's the right system for me unless my financial situation makes a quantum leap somehow.
If you mostly listen to simple music at low volumes and being able to play rock, electronic, etc. music at moderate volumes isn't a priority then a small amp might be the way to go, but then I'd look at 2a3s or 45s instead of el84s.
With 93 dB speakers, at 1 watt you have 93 dB (at 1m), 2W = 96dB, 4W = 99 dB, 8W = 102 dB. You'll get close to the same dB levels at your listening position (farther back, but 2 speakers + room reinforcement). It's going to take ~ 8 watts to get the volume I desire. Sometimes it would be nice if it could play even louder, but that's all you get out of 2 4.5" drivers. Pretty decent actually... can't wait for the alnico 4.5s.
