Newbie question about impedance

[kaos]

If all my speakers are 6 ohms what should I have my receiver set at? I have it set up at 6 ohms right now (which would make sense to me since I don't know much about ohmage) and the other option is 8 ohms.

 

[zumbo]

888888888888888!

NOTE: Some Receivers have an impedance selector switch. DON'T USE THEM! The manufacturer puts them there for UL approvals as well as easing consumer concerns about driving low impedance loads. These switches step down voltage feed to the power sections which will limit dynamics and overall fidelity. Keep the switch set for 8 ohms regardless of the impedance of your speakers and ensure proper ventilation of the Receiver.

That was taken from here: http://www.audioholics.com/FAQs/4-ohmspeakersreceiver.php

 

[kaos]

Holy cow. I've had it on 6 this whole time! I went back immediately and switched to minimum 8 ohms. How can I know if I've done any damage to the receiver by having it on 6? It still performs like new and I haven't had any problems with it ever.

Thanks!

 

[zumbo]

There is no harm done. If anything, you added to the life. All you did was reduce it's power. Good for the receiver. Not so good for speakers.

 

[j_garcia]

It's OK for the speakers too, it just means you aren't putting out as much power as the receiver is capable of. Most 8 Ohm receivers can handle 6 Ohm speakers without issue.