Poweramp / Monitors??

[dadan]

This is a very newbie question but please bear with me in trying to explain what I'd like to get some info on:

What is the better combination: A Poweramp that has more power than the Monitors can handle or Monitors
that can handle more power than the Poweramp can supply?

Let's say I have Monitors that can handle around 100 watts continuous (impedance 4 Ohms) what's the biggest Poweramp I can use before I enter the danger zone ( of course that also depends on my listening level)

I guess I'm just looking for some kind of guide/numbers/percentage/formula etc. to keep in mind when buying a Poweramp.

Thanks.

Dadan

[Emeric]

Better to have a poweramp that has more power than the Monitors can handle.

You can use as powerful an amp as you like. No matter what amp you use, take suitable precautions to avoid blowing your speakers. I usually get an amp that is at least double the speaker rating. Like you said, it depends on your listening level. You can blow speakers with a 200W amp and 100W speakers. You can *really* blow speakers with a 800W amp and 100W speakers. But both will work fine if you operate within spec.

[Cave Dweller]

the deal is all about clipping. You can damage your speakers more by sending clipped signal (which is direct current)from the amp to the speakers than if you overpower the speakers.