Hi there,
My Yamaha amp has A and B speakers output and clearly states that only 8 ohms speakers should be used. Selection could be to either A, B or A+B. The A output is connected to existing 8 ohms speakers downstairs. The B output is connected to a Niles SSVC2 speaker selector upstairs. From the Niles selector I would like to run 2 pairs of speakers. One existing pair is 8 ohms (in the living room) and the other pair (outside) I still need to buy.
According to the manual (
http://www.nilesaudio.com/images/PDF/SSVC_manual.pdf), that's not how you are supposed to connect the box. It's supposed to be on the A output, nothing on the B, that way it manages the total speaker load on the AVR. The manual doesn't say how, or give any details, but this is found on page 10, in the right-hand sidebar.
My questions are:
1. If I bought 8 ohms speakers for outside I assume that when selecting either pair or both pairs of speakers on the Niles, it will adjust the impedance so that the amplifier sees 8 ohms every time. I believe I have to set the Niles impedance magnification selector at the back of the unit to 2 speakers and it will automatically adjust impedance even when only one pair is being used. Is all this correct?
The setting is for 2 pairs of speakers, and yes that's how the box works, as long as only the box connects to the amp, no other speakers.
2. If I bought 4 ohms speakers for outside and connected them to the Niles together with the 8 ohms existing speakers in the living room...what happens? Does the Niles still adjust impedance so that the amplifier sees 8 ohms every time?
The manual doesn't say what the results will be. I would guess the composite impedance would be below 8 ohms.
3. Could I eventually run A (8 ohms) and B (connected to the Niles) in the amplifier as well as both pairs of speakers (8 ohms and ???) connected to the Niles?
Thanks a lot!
The A/B switch on the AVR just parallels the two outputs. The manual tells you not to do what you suggest, but it would probably work. Even though the specs say it's 8 ohms only, they go and give you a way to attach and parallel two sets of speakers, which would result in nominal 4 ohms.
FWIW, I never suggest more than 1 set of speakers on the primary AVR, but then use a separate amp for distribution. There are a number of amps and devices designed for this that make life much easier.
