I have these old 'Galax' speakers that came from a busted TV. They're really good quality, and I want to salvage them for a DIY project. However, I can't find any information on their wattage or impedance, and I can't open them up to check. They measure about 20x5x5 cm. I'm considering using a cheap amplifier from Aliexpress that has 50 watts per channel along with a 24-volt power supply. My main concern is: how can I avoid damaging the speakers, and is it safe to use this setup if their specs are unknown?
2 Answers
Honestly, those old drivers aren't the best quality. While they may sound good to you, there are way better options out there that won’t break the bank. Plus, without knowing the specs, you're playing with fire. If you really want to use those speakers, just match the amp to the power they can safely handle, but research alternatives for a long-term solution. A small investment in new drivers could really improve your setup without any guesswork.
Usually, you'll find the impedance labeled on the speaker near the connection wires. However, if you can’t get in because it's glued shut, you should be careful. You can damage speakers in a couple ways: overdriving them with a too-powerful amp or causing distortion (clipping) if the amp is too weak. Since these speakers might not handle 50W for long, try not to crank the volume too high. A cheap amplifier should be okay as long as you’re mindful of the volume levels.
Thanks for the tip! I'll make sure to watch the volume closely.
I appreciate the advice, but I'm attached to these speakers even if they're not top-notch! What's the worst that could happen if I just go ahead with my plan?