Clipped signals, and their effect on a voice coil

[JeremyC]

It seems the masses at another car audio forum beleive that a clipped siginal from a small amp CAN NOT hurt a speaker with a higher RMS rating. To me this seems crazy since no speaker is designed to handle a DC voltage passing thru its voice coil. No matter what the voltage, or strength, of the signal. If I am incorect please explain, since their anology completly disagrees with my basis of thinking in this aspect.

http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/4/146298.html

[Ryan from Ohio]

Dc sends a straight signal. It will cause heat build up in the motor assembly. This is what the RMS handling is for, thermal power handling.

When you look at it this way I dont think there is a calculation to figure what the maximum DC power would be figuring from an AC current?

I guess as long as the DC voltage was low and it didnt pass the thermal threshold it shouldnt hurt it. At any rate its best NOT to find out. Fix the problem the first time :)

[GlassWolf]

just to prevent myself from prattling on about something that Perry has already well-covered:

http://www.bcae1.com/2ltlpwr.htm

I'd be happy to explain anything that doesn't cover, which you may still question.

[JeremyC]

Nope, you both answered my question. I guess I was looking at it from a don't take the chance point of view, and not taking into affect the thermal handeling of a set sub.

[audiobass10]

http://www.forceaudio.com/viewtopic.php?t=26

There's a good test done by some guys who know their stuff.