We have a video on this! FAQ Friday: Why is the IN-5 more powerful than the IN-8
The IN-5 and IN-8 V2 are members of our Independence line of loudspeakers. They are 3-way speakers with a woofer, a mid-range and a coaxial tweeter. This makes them a point-source loudspeaker, and makes them image fantastically!
The IN-5 uses a 160W power amp. The IN-8 V2 uses a 140W power amp. The IN-5 is a smaller speaker, but the IN-8 V2 plays louder. So why does the IN-5 use more power than the larger IN-8 V2?
Surface Area
In order for the IN-5 woofer to keep up with the midrange and the tweeter, the woofer needs to move in and out MORE than the larger IN-8 woofer does. It requires more power to do this and it also creates a bit more distortion; whereas the IN-8 V2, due to its larger surface area with which it can radiate the sound, does not have to move in and out as much; thus it has lower distortion and it requires LESS power.
We have the technology!
There are ways to lower distortion on a smaller woofer / loudspeaker, but they come with a price tag. Things like shorting rings are sometimes used here to lower magnetic flux distortion (that’s fancy lingo for low frequency distortion due to imperfections in a magnetic field), and a great example of this tech being used is none other than (drumroll please!) our SM-5 Powered loudspeaker from the Santa Monica line. In fact, each of the three drivers on these speakers uses different technology to lower distortion within its designated frequency band.
A Note on IN-Series Distortion IRL
In most cases the differences in distortion between IN-5 and IN-8 V2 are more measurable than audible. Particularly at safe listening levels and distances under 2 meters, most near-field setups aren’t going to feel a huge difference between these speakers. However, once you're sitting 2 meters away or further, and pushing higher SPLs, the IN-8 V2's lower distortion becomes more of a distinguishing factor. Suffice to say, if high output and a longer listening distance are part of your setup, consider treating yourself to the bigger speakers!