Amplifiers sound different - load sensitivity?

martinsson wrote: Good points Elliot, thanks. To sum up (and please correct me if I got something wrong here). 1. The amplifier and speakers form a system where both influences eachother beyond what is specified for each of them. 2. There is no way to tell based soley on specifications how various combinations of speakers and amplifiers will sound. 3. Noticing differences in sonic attributes between different amplifiers on using one and the same set of speakers is entirely possible, judgement on what works best is personal and subjective. A speakers sonic attributes are often alot more pronounced than those of an amplifier, but they will both add to the sonic characteristics of the system (speakers and amplifier). The term I used to describe how a load (speaker) will influence an amplifiers performance is load sensitivity, but that was not thought through properly since this can mean alot of things if not used and described in context. My experience is that some amplifiers are more stable with regards to their sonic properties when used with various different speakers (loads) meaning that they would either be less load sensitive or have a sonic character that are so pronounced that it remains similar regardless of how other attributes change with different loads (speakers).

Absolutely!

The loudspeaker's impedance curve, at the given frequency, will play a factor, on how the amplifier will behave amplifying music signals. Not even two loudspeakers, offering the same brand/model number, will offer identical impedance curves, within a 20 Hz – 20 kHz range. This can be easily found using LIMP, the Woofer Tester and/or, Room EQ Wizard.

Overall, the amplifier needs to manage various behavioural patterns, under the given circumstances, all courtesy of the loudspeaker.

Best Regards,