[EdwardT]

What is the power handling capacity of this speaker? I'd like to know so I can match a proper power amp to our new X-SLS cabinets; our current amp doesn’t have enough output to drive these properly.

[mlundy57]

What is the power handling capacity of this speaker? I'd like to know so I can match a proper power amp to our new X-SLS cabinets; our current amp doesn’t have enough output to drive these properly.

While you can underpower a speaker, you can't overpower one. The amp doesn't push power to the speakers, the speakers draw the amount of power they need from the amp. I have found the X-LS/SLS to do very well with amps that are 15wpc to 600wpc. Keep in mind that power ratings on amps are not equal. I have had an amp rated at 20wpc outperform one rated to 100wpc. It all comes down to how the manufacturer chooses to measure the power output.

[EdwardT]

I understand your point but I’ve seen drivers damaged by too much voltage and even catch on fire. Not that my home stereo would ever get pushed that far but I still want to know the power rating. My favorite was the stage right PA catching on fire during Wet Willie at NC State's Zoo Day back in the 20th century. It was a spectacular finale.

[Danny Richie]

I am sure I have about 30,000 total drivers out there now. I have never seen or heard of one fail from lack of power handling.

I have seen voice coils roasted black from a clipping 50 watt Denon receiver.

Have enough power to drive them to levels that you need without clipping.

Also keep in mind that they do have mechanical X-Max limits. Reaching that is a function of frequency and power.

[EdwardT]

I understand your point, too, square wave is a killer. I still want to know the power rating.

[corndog71]

I’ve driven a pair of X-LS with as little as 2.5 watts and as much as 250 watts.  2.5 watts sounded fine in a small bedroom as long as they weren’t pushed too loud.  No problems with amps 35 watts and up.

[Danny Richie]

I understand your point, too, square wave is a killer. I still want to know the power rating.

Power ratings are marketing jargon.

Maybe this will help: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSWrT8Qk7Bc&t=100s

[EdwardT]

Gosh, I feel like I’m trying to steal a state secret, I’m here for the jargon and tech specs. And the nice pictures of other folks handiwork. I really respect the fine ear that developed these very nice speakers, so much so that I’ve built two kits and I’m trying to justify building more…except the X-SLS sounds so good I might not be able to swing the debate. The tweeter spec is published but the woofer isn’t and I’d just like to satisfy my curiosity. If no one knows, that’s fine too because it’s still an answer.

[Danny Richie]

There isn't a company out there that puts power on a driver until if fails.

If we did put power on a driver until it failed, there wouldn't be any consistency. One might fail at 300 watts continuous, one at 150, and another at 400.

Then there is a huge difference in continuous vs peak, sine wave, square wave, MLS, or music input, plus frequency range. All of those variables could make a difference of 50 watts to 1200 watts. 

In the end what really matters is if there is a power related issue under normal music playback. Under normal music playback power handling is a non-issue.

[mkane]

  We use 500w D class on occasion. All is well so far.

[mlundy57]

The take home is that the M-165s don’t have a power handling spec