MM455 Amp requirements

[D Martin]

Kim, you recommend 85-150 W RMS to drive the MM455s. Pardon my ignorance, but please explain why so much power is needed if I listen at lower sound levels. I'm looking to install the MM455s in Q-Logic kick panels in my 96 Camaro. The system in my old car (84 T-bird) used a Sony amp at 35W RMS per channel, and it got as loud as I wanted it to get. If I'm only running say 25-35 W RMS through my system, do I still need an amp that can deliver 85-150 W RMS? Does the additional headroom improve the sound quality at lower levels? Please enlighten me. Any input would be appreciated.

[Kim]

D,
The reason that I recommend using amplifiers that have a power rating of 85 to 150 Watts per channel is to help prevent clipping and distortion that may occur when listening at higher volume levels. Clipping and distortion is the number one reason the drivers and tweeters fail.
If the speakers are going to be used with a subwoofer, and the crossover frequency is around 80 to 90 Hertz, Then the
higher Voltage and Current demand is reduced considerably.
(Its that P=IxE thing) Then you can use a smaller power amplifier.
Plus you have to consider the sensitivity of the speakers, installation location, and program material (does it have a lot of equalization incorporated into the recorded material? ) and desired listening level. Hope this helps.

Happy Listening!!
Kim