Hooking up multiple sets of speakers

[Kernel]

I want to put a home stereo system on the roof of a van... yeah, don't ask why.

Here is what I have to work with:
Power supplies
NAD 7140 Receiver, NAD 2100 Amp
Speakers
Kenwood: KL777A, KL777, KL555, JL1080AV
Sherwood: S-2125, Linear Dynamics: LD-1530, Fisher: ST830, Pioneer: CS88
(still aquiring more speakers on Craigslist... mostly for show)

I am using RCA cables to run an out from the 7140 to the 2100 so I can use both power plants (e.g. not use the 7140 as a pre-amp). Or maybe splitting the signal from the headphone jack of the iPod to each amp would be better so I could control the volume easier from inside the vehicle... but I digress.

I am pretty sure I can keep the ohms in check by wiring in a combination of parallel and series. I also will connect all the junk speakers (I know... which ones right) to one amp so if someone tears the knob off, I won't be too upset.

Okay, now my question: do I have to worry about these amps melting? I will make sure they get plenty of ventilation and we will have a Honda 2000 generator supplying the juice.

What do you think (about the audio set-up, not my mental health)?
John

 

[j_garcia]

The NAD amp can probably handle it, so I think as long as the generator is sufficient for the wattage you are going to draw, it should work. Otherwise, use an impedance matching speaker selector.

 

[markw]

As you say, by combining parallel and series wiring you might be able to obtain a nominal safe impedance.

But, power will most likely be unevenely distributed and there's alwqaus the possibility of unpredictible impedance swings (including dips) and combinations that could have an "interesting" effect on the output stages.

 

[Kernel]

There will only be a few times that we will be able to "turn it up" during this 36 hour event. I will do some testing prior to the event. Thanks for your feedback.
John

 

[bandphan]

audio equipment and consumer generators do not play well. If it is propane converted, a little better, but I woudnt.

 

[Kernel]

I will do some more research on this because the Honda generators are supposed to be known for delivering clean power. We use them for running multiple laptops and printers... never had an issue. I have an $80.00 power strip as an extra precautionary measure. Thanks for letting me know.
John

 

[bandphan]

I will do some more research on this because the Honda generators are supposed to be known for delivering clean power. We use them for running multiple laptops and printers... never had an issue. I have an $80.00 power strip as an extra precautionary measure. Thanks for letting me know.
John

And your laptop uses a step down

 

[j_garcia]

And your laptop uses a step down

There are certain generators that are designed for use with electronics, but as mentioned, it still isn't an ideal situation. I would have to say that an audio system on top of a van isn't really an ideal situation anyway, so I suppose you will have to give it a shot

 

[Kernel]

Correct... not "ideal".
Most of what we are doing is for show/fun but it would be nice to be able to crank it up without fear of the whole system coming crashing down.

I will do plenty of testing when the weather turns warmer this summer. Might not hook up all the speakers but stack them up there for effect.

I am slowly acquiring equipment off of craigslist. Any recommendations for what to target? At first I was just getting the $20 Fisher 15" woofer late 80's POSs but now I find myself trying to score a set of Cornwalls or something. This is a sickness!
John