i've read through under powering and overpowering...haven't seen anything much about running right at power capacity.

i know underpowering can be damaging, and overpowering can be adjusted by turning down the gain. are there any concerns with running say a jl 300/2 amp to two component speakers powered at max 150 rms per speaker?

might be a dumb question...i don't know. just wondering if running an amp at 100% all the time is ever a problem.

 

The harder you run an amp, the shorter it's lifespan. However, as long as your output is not clipping, you're not causing any real undue stress on the amp.

I wouldn't be concerned if I were you. Just make sure you set the gain to not clip (you'll still be putting out approx 150W/chan)

 

doesn't it also increase the heat that the amp will produce?

 

By increasing the power output, yes. Running specifically at rated power does no more real harm than running at 5W under or over rated power (unless you're clipping).

BTW, underpowering an amp - not a bad thing. There's really no way to underpower an amp. You're just paying more for something you're not using...

 

also remember that your amp is only producing its maximum power
at maximum volume - during normal listening the amp is often only
putting out a few watts.

 

all good points guys. very helpful.