[roymail]

I've been reading about the N1, N1X, N2X and noticed their sensitivity rating from 85db - 87db from 8ohms - 6.2ohms.  Yet the recommended power for these small speakers begins at 8wpc to 100wpc.

I've never heard anyone complain that these speakers were particularly difficult to drive or hard on amps.  My perception has always been that sensitivity below 89db was something I should avoid.  Is it possible that 85db or 86db sensitive speakers can be an easy drive for mid powered amps or receivers?  I never thought so, but my guess is that they will most certainly sound better with 50wpc to 100wpc with sufficient PS than lower powered amps.

This question or topic is not just for Danny, although I know he's probably best qualified to answer my concerns.  Owners of these speakers are certainly qualified to speak of their experiences, and I would appreciate hearing from you guys.

I have been eyeing the N3 and N3S due to their greater output and higher sensitivity rating.

Thanks for helping me understand this better. 

[S Clark]

I have a pair of Neo2xs that I drive with a pair of 6bq5 mono amps putting out 12-14 watts.  They have never strained to fill the room loudly. When I switch to a 150 wpc Moscode, the only thing noticeable is more defined bass,  a less musical midrange, and a narrower soundstage.
Clearly they are not especially power hungry and a high quality, small amp will drive them just fine.

[kip_]

The amount of power they require depends on your listening habits, room size, and whether they're crossed over to a subwoofer.

Reproducing low bass requires much more power and driver excursion than mids and highs. My bookshelf speakers rated at 85db do just fine with 38 tube watts per channel in a small office (11x14). They cross over to a sub at 80hz.

[kip_]

Also this is a good read:

http://www.salksound.com/wp/?p=56

You cannot have low bass, high sensitivity, and a small cabinet size in the same speaker, pick two.

[Danny Richie]

It just all depends on room size and desired listening levels.

I typically design speakers with easy drive loads. So that opens them up to being driven with anything. And sometimes you'd be surprised how well they can perform with low wattage amps.

But not all low wattage amps are the same. So choose wisely.