Help a newbie - Sony System

Hi, I am new to all this and am ready to learn from the experts. I have a Sony surround system with 5 speakers but only want to have 2 desktop speakers. My question is can I use the two tall speakers only with my system or do I need to purchase new speakers? Does surround sound 5.1 only work all together and how do I know what type of speaker the tall ones are and if they work alone?

 

Hi Debbie, welcome to the forum.

Can you let us know the model of system you have? Usually, there are settings for the number of loudspeakers, and that should be specified in the equipment manual.

As to what loudspeakers will work with your system, that should also be specified in the equipment manual.

If you don't have the manual, you can usually find it on line, or I can do it for you, but you need to know the equipment model number.

S

 

Hi Sergeauckland, thanks for the reply, i have a Sony Model # TA - AV561

 

Having read the manual, it looks like there's no conventional two-speakers stereo mode available. The nearest is their 'phantom' mode which expects three front loudspeakers and no rear 'speakers.

Consequently, if you only have two front 'speakers, when playing stereo sources, you'll get some unpredictable effects. As it's all Solid State, you won't cause any damage by not connecting centre or rear loudspeakers, but the sound won't be correct.

As to what floor-standing 'speakers you can use, the amplifier is only specified for 8 ohm loads, so whatever 'speakers you choose, should be 8 ohms. Many loudspeakers are specified as 8 ohms, but in practice drop to much lower impedance, so you should look for those that don't drop below 6 ohms, and you should be safe. Using loudspeakers of too low an impedance may cause the amplifier to overheat and possibly shorten its life.

If you want to play stereo only sources, this amplifier is really the wrong tool to use. It would be better to sell it/change it for something with two channels only, and specified for 4 ohms, as then you widen the choice of loudspeakers it will drive safely.

S.