Yet another Ohmage question . . .

I've already done a thread search on this issue, but I need more input.

On an amp that can run two channels dual mono, is it unwise to run cabs of different ohm ratings off of each channel? I ask because I'm unsure of whether or not the separate channels are in fact completely separate or if they still run sort of in conjunction with each other. Of course, this question shows how little I know about amps in general.

I ask this question because my current rig is an SVT 4 Pro with a Ampeg 410HLF. I really love the sound I get, but I wanted to add a little, and thought adding an Ampeg 210 would be nifty. But the 210 is 8 ohms, and we all know the 410 hlf is 4.

I'm probably just really trying to avoid getting an 810, aren't I?

[Sundogue]

Originally Posted by jhan

I've already done a thread search on this issue, but I need more input.

On an amp that can run two channels dual mono, is it unwise to run cabs of different ohm ratings off of each channel? I ask because I'm unsure of whether or not the separate channels are in fact completely separate or if they still run sort of in conjunction with each other. Of course, this question shows how little I know about amps in general.

I ask this question because my current rig is an SVT 4 Pro with a Ampeg 410HLF. I really love the sound I get, but I wanted to add a little, and thought adding an Ampeg 210 would be nifty. But the 210 is 8 ohms, and we all know the 410 hlf is 4.

I'm probably just really trying to avoid getting an 810, aren't I?

If there is a separate output control for each side you are good to go and will be able to balance their respective output. And so long as each side can handle the ohm load of the cab connected to it, it is safe to do so.

I'm not familiar with the SVT 4 Pro, but I have an Ashdown Superfly with two mono heads, but only one output control for both together. With that as long as I don't go lower than 4 ohms per side I'm safe with it, but I have no way to balance each cab's output if they aren't the same. I also have a Carvin BX1200 with dual mono block heads but it has separate output controls for each side which allows me to balance the output of dissimilar cabs.

[Bassamatic]

I see that the SVT4 Pro is a dual amp - 2 separate output channels. You CAN connect speakers with different impedance to the 2 channels.

However, be aware that the speaker with the lower impedance (4 Ohms) will take more power from the amp than the 8 Ohm speaker, so there will be some level imbalance between the 2 speakers. I don't know if the amp has a way of balancing this or not.

Thanks for the answer. Really appreciate it!!

Since the 210 is only 200 watts rms, 400 watts program, it's good that it'll get less power. The 410 hlf can more than handle the spillover. But I wouldn't be surprised if the 210 farted out nonetheless, since its 'real' rms rating is probably around 150. The amp does have a crossover, but the logical solution would be to send more lows to the HLF, which it certainly doesn't need.

The question is: how much more volume would I be getting with this setup? Not much, probably, which only proves that I should ditch the 410HLF altogether and go with an 810 and call it a day. Simple is best.

I guess I answered my own question

Originally Posted by Gio S

I see that the SVT4 Pro is a dual amp - 2 separate output channels. You CAN connect speakers with different impedance to the 2 channels.

However, be aware that the speaker with the lower impedance (4 Ohms) will take more power from the amp than the 8 Ohm speaker, so there will be some level imbalance between the 2 speakers. I don't know if the amp has a way of balancing this or not.

[Rick Auricchio]

Actually, I think ditching the 210 is a better idea. Replace it with another 410hlf.

Yeah, been thinking about that. I actually think that the 410HLF is Ampeg's best sounding cab. 2 would be nice.

Never understood why some people think these cabs sound 'muddy.' With very little tweaking, I think they sound clear as a bell with great low end.

But my back aches just thinking about it.

Originally Posted by Rick Auricchio

Actually, I think ditching the 210 is a better idea. Replace it with another 410hlf.

[Rick Auricchio]

A pair of 410s is easier to lug than an 810 (though, depending on your vehicle, that may be debatable).

A big advantage is that for a smaller gig you can use a single 410 and not use an 810 that might look like overkill.

[RickenBoogie]

+1 another 410hlf is the most reasonable step foward. You like what you have, so double up and let it rip.