Speaker switch...

[Mike Kowalik]

Is it ok to put a 4 ohm speaker into an amp that would normally use an 8 ohm speaker? Would the amp be damaged?

[David Higginbotham]

Not sure what amp but most amps have no problem with a 4 ohm load. Some builders install an 8 ohm speaker to be able to use another 8 ohm extension speaker which gives a 4 ohm load. If it’s a power amp and you’re bridging it…few amps will allow a 4 ohm speaker as it’ll see a 2 ohm load. Exceptions would be Stewart half rack power amps and some old Peavey power amps like classic 60/60.

It should be labeled on the rear of the amp not to use less than an 8 ohm load.
Dave

[Dave Grafe]

Depends on the amp, what have you?

[Mike Kowalik]

A few months ago I purchased an Evans amp that was for sale on the Forum. When the amp arrives I see that it is a JE-150 which normally should have a 12 inch 8 ohm speaker but it has a 4 ohm 1501 BW. Amp seemed like it worked fine. I put an 8 ohm speaker in the amp but have always wondered about output with a 4 ohm. If it's 150 watts at 8 omhs what is it at with a 4 ohm speaker. Also will the amp be damaged by using the 4 ohm speaker?

[Dave Grafe]

The JE150 model is rated at 80 watts into 8 ohms, or 160 watts with an 8 ohm extension speaker, i.e. 4 ohms total load. It will work perfectly with your single 4 ohm BW and no extension cab, that's a right sweet rig there