What is it with 15Ω speaker ratings?

[Kommerzbassist]

Why are some of the Celestions (like the Gold) rated for either 8 or 15Ω (the why goes for the 15)?
I suppose it wouldn't be a good idea to have it connected to the 16Ω output of your amp right? So why do they do that?:scratchch

 

[Lewguitar]

Re: What is it with 15Ω speaker ratings?

Why are some of the Celestions (like the Gold) rated for either 8 or 15Ω (the why goes for the 15)?
I suppose it wouldn't be a good idea to have it connected to the 16Ω output of your amp right? So why do they do that?:scratchch

Don't worry about. Think of them as being a 16 ohm speaker.

 

[glassman]

Re: What is it with 15Ω speaker ratings?

That is the average impedance of the speaker...and the 16 ohm output would be the appropriate one to use. The actual impedance of the a speaker is constantly changing with the voice coil's position relative to the magnet structure (inductive changes). Impedance is also frequency dependent. Typically, British amplifiers require a fairly close speaker/OT match while American (like old Fenders) can tolerate as much as a 100% mismatch.

You are safe.

 

[Kommerzbassist]

Re: What is it with 15Ω speaker ratings?

I see... because after hearing that Steve Stevens Demo on the Celestion page and reading all the reviews... that would be an interesting thing in my 2x12 for sure. Price tag is quite hefty, but that usually doesn't stop me from doing such things
Only stupid thing was the impendance... because in case I'd go with those, I'd have 2 16s in parallel. But if you say it's ok, then it's ok :firedevil

Jeez... I've been deciding what to put in my cab for about half a year now...