Clipping
Definition
Clipping occurs when an amplifier is asked for more output than it can produce. The output waveform flattens at the peaks instead of following the input. A clipped waveform contains extra high-frequency energy that tweeters handle poorly.
Sustained clipping can burn a tweeter. Occasional brief peaks are less dangerous than long passages at the limit.
In a stereo system
Clipping is the main reason an underpowered amplifier can damage speakers. A 50W amp driven hard into a speaker rated 100 to 200W will clip before the speaker reaches its thermal limit. The speaker is not being protected. It is receiving a distorted signal.
Headroom is how you avoid clipping: enough spare power so transients stay within the amp's clean range. A more powerful amp running cleanly is usually safer than a smaller amp pushed into clip.
If the sound becomes harsh, compressed, or "edgy" as you turn the volume up, back off. That is often clipping, not the speaker "opening up."
