People often ask… Which speaker is better, 4 Ohms or 8 Ohms?
Let’s find out!
Which speaker is better, 4 Ohm or 8 Ohm?
The answer depends on what type of music you listen to. If you play electronic dance music at high volumes, then it may be best to stick with the lower impedance speakers. But if you prefer listening to classical music or jazz at moderate volume levels, then the higher impedance speakers will provide a richer sound.
4 Ohm vs 8 Ohm speakers – What’s the difference?
There is a big difference between 4 Ohms and 8 Ohms. These are some of the most important things to know before buying speakers.
What is speaker impedance?
Speakers’ impedances are rated as low as 1 Ohm and higher than 10k Ohms. Home speakers usually have impedances in the range of 4-8 Ohms. High-quality speakers may have impedances up to 100k Ohms.
Speakers are analogous to a water hose. When the pressure is turned on higher than the maximum, the flow of water will increase. This analogy applies to speaker systems as well because increasing the volume decreases the sound quality.
Why is this speaker impedance important for speakers?
Speakers with mismatched impedances will not reach their optimal sounds due to power losses in transmissions. Impedance ratings affect both input signal level and volume. A speaker’s impedance levels affect both input signal level & output, or volume. An amplifier’s impedance levels should match the speaker’s impedance levels to prevent distortion.
Speaker impedance must match amplifier output power. Speakers have different types of speakers and specifications. Speakers’ impedance must match amplifiers’ output power.
4 Ohm vs 8 Ohm Speakers: Which is Better?
Ohm vs Ohm speakers – Which one is better?
Speakers with an impedance greater or equal to the amplifier will have better sound quality. Higher impedances mean less loss of power during transmission. Lower impedances require more power to drive them.
A lower impedance speaker requires a higher voltage amp while a higher impedance speaker needs a lower voltage amp. A 4-Ohm driver without a compatible amp will distort and won’t sound good. Most drivers have some kind of protection against this.
A better option than using an amplifier is going with an 8-Ohm speaker. This will help you save money.
Final thoughts
Speakers with low impedances require more voltage for adequate volume. Speakers with high impedances require less voltage for adequate volume.