4 ohm speakers, 8 ohm receiver

[lhbrennan]

I walked into a small, respectable audio specialist, asking for a receiver that would pair well with the LSi9's. I was directed to the Marantz SR5002. It's gotten great reviews. Unfortunately, I didn't realize it was an 8 ohm receiver (the polk speakers are 4 ohms). I don't know much about the technical stuff -- the store owner said the marantz would be more than enough for the LSi9's, even in a 7.1 setup. Anyone disagree with him? I wouldn't want to damage the speakers or the receiver. I do plan on pushing the system on a regular basis (I like loud music). Thanks for any responses.

[ben62670]

Oh no not again.
Just kidding. We get that here 3 times a week. The store owner wanted to sell a Marantz. Nice gear, but not up to snuff for driving full LSI system.
Here is the most recent thread.
http://www.polkaudio.com/forums/showthread.php?t=66213
Try the search function. You will get more info than you need. Stick around.
Welcome to CP.
Ben

[lhbrennan]

Thanks for the reply, and sorry for the repetitive post. I guess my question then is should I return this receiver (which would be quite a hassle since I got it in LA and live in Berkeley -- bad idea) or could I instead buy an external amplifier? Will having this receiver always hold back the sound from the LSi's or will an additional amp allow them to sound their best? Judging from other threads it seems like I need 120wpc at least, I'm assuming at 4 ohms. How does that translate into an 8 ohm receiver (90wpc) with an external amp? Thanks again.

[Gaara]

Try the search function.

I myself have answered this question at least twice in the last week with posts as recent as last night. Check the speaker forum for threads on LSi, they all revert to arguments over power.

[mantis]

Bottom line is this.
Some receiver can hold the 4 ohm load. Some can't. Some clip at reference , some don't. Why buy such fantastic speakers and under power them?

[cfrizz]

If your Marantz has preouts for separate amplification get a 200wpc @ 8ohms amplifier. That will ensure that your LSI's have all the power they will need.

Thanks for the reply, and sorry for the repetitive post. I guess my question then is should I return this receiver (which would be quite a hassle since I got it in LA and live in Berkeley -- bad idea) or could I instead buy an external amplifier? Will having this receiver always hold back the sound from the LSi's or will an additional amp allow them to sound their best? Judging from other threads it seems like I need 120wpc at least, I'm assuming at 4 ohms. How does that translate into an 8 ohm receiver (90wpc) with an external amp? Thanks again.