Paradigm Atom for SBR and SBR w/7700

Posted by: AARONMADLER

Paradigm Atom for SBR and SBR w/7700 - 01/06/07 02:02 PM

I was wondering about the compatibility of the Paradigm Atom with the 7700. On the website, it states that the Atom's suitable amplifer power range is 15 - 80 watts and the maximum input power is 50 watts. Since the 7700 is 200 watts per channel, will this present a problem?

http://www.paradigm.com/website/siteparadigmproduct/ParadigmModels/Performance/PerformanceSpecs.htm
Posted by: gonk

Re: Paradigm Atom for SBR and SBR w/7700 - 01/06/07 02:13 PM

It should be fine - while the 7700 has enough power that you could theoretically over-push the Atoms, in reality it would take a very extreme volume level and some unusual source material to deliver that kind of power to the surround back channels (probably something like 7 Stereo mode and a pink noise test tone played at a notch or so above deafening). In day-to-day circumstances, the extra power means that the 7700 will never clip, and clipping due to insufficient amp power is actually a more common means of damaging speakers (especially surrounds) than the scenario I described above.
Posted by: AARONMADLER

Re: Paradigm Atom for SBR and SBR w/7700 - 01/06/07 09:45 PM

Gonk - Thanks for the explanation about the amp in relation to the Atom speakers. I've recently spent an arm and a leg on stereo gear and my wife will probably divorce me if I buy anything else. I'm glad that I don't have to change the rear surround speakers.