What happens when you hook up a low impedance pair of headphones with a powerful amp?

[haris262]

Say you have a low impedance pair of headphones right? What would happen if you would connect it to one of those amps that are basically made to drive something like 600+ Ohm headphones? Would you have to turn the volume way down since the amp is just so much more powerful? How would that work?

Also, how loud is "too loud" for a pair of headphones? Basically, how do you know you're reaching the point where you might be pushing it beyond its capabilities? Is it the point where the music starts getting distorted?

Thanks a lot!

 

[kanewolf]

You could damage the amp. You should check the minimum impedance the amp supports. If you are above that, then you can damage the headphones by overdriving them.

 

[True Buie]

Heyo haris262

For the first question.
You'd most likely have to run the amp at lower volumes, since it was made to drive headphones which needed much more power. There's no harm in doing so since the amp actually works better at 50-60%. Most amps made for 800+ ohm or for speaker monitors usually have their nob turn so the first 50% of the nob is maybe 1-20% gain and the rest is 21-100%. This will pretty much ensure that you won't blow out your precious headphones.

Next question.
You'll have no problem detecting when it's too loud. Most headphones are designed to distort at 100+ db. Which is pretty damn loud. You'll most likely have a headache before you notice distortion. Of course not if it some $2 headphones from your local market, but any competent made headphones will go FAR beyond what is pleasant to listen before breaking their own limits.

Cheers