SM-5-C Amp Specs
Bi-Wire Tunings for LEA Amps
The SM-5-C requires a power amplifier. For full output and minimum distortion, Kali recommends bi-amplifying the speakers using an LEA Connect Series amplifier with at least 100W per channel. For example, the LEA Connect 164 160W per channel 4-channel amplifier is the minimum choice for a pair of SM-5-Cs. Configuration files for LEA amplifiers can be found below. Note that a separate file must be loaded for each the LF and the MR+HF channels. Refer to page 12 in the user’s guide for instructions to program these files into your LEA amplifier.
Single Wire Tunings for LEA Amps
Nearly full output and acceptable distortion may also be attained using the single wire tuning and one of LEA’s 80W amplifiers. This means that it is possible to amplify up to four speakers using an LEA Connect 84 or up to 8 using an LEA Connect 88. Max SPL will be 1 dB lower and distortion will be slightly higher at full output. Using an LEA Connect Series amp with a higher power rating will allow you to achieve full output, although distortion will still be higher than it would be if the speakers were bi-amplified.
3rd-Party Amplifier Minimum Requirements
If you’d like to use a different amplifier, you’ll need to make sure that it can deliver 20VRMS into a 3 Ohm load. Most amplifiers rated for 100W at 4 Ohm should be sufficient, but you’ll need to verify that the amplifier you select is capable of handling a 3 Ohm load.
The amplifier, or some other component after the amplifier in your signal chain, will need to include a peak limiter. Using the SM-5-Cs without a peak limiter will void your warranty. Kali Audio is not responsible for damage incurred to the speakers if a peak limiter is not used. Peak limiter specifications can be found on pages 9-11 of the user’s manual. It is also recommended to use an RMS limiter.