effects of clipping.

Ok, you have all discussed what clipping is. What about the effects of clipping on a driver.

I've read where it causes no damage as well as how it can.

I would assume that because more power is delivered in a clipped signal this would be a no brainer, but yet there are those who say it doesn't matter.

Or is this one of those, "it really depends" kind of things.

Clipping is the equivalent to a sub connected to a battery for brief periods. Most subs will sustain this but not for long because the coil will heat to the point that the shellac melts off the winding changing the V.C. resistance and hence the impedence.

Rule of thumb: How important is it to you to drive the sub beyond reasonable power?

Important? Such as SPL - AKA "go for the gusto til she smokes 'cause I need another trophy and I don't give a rats ass if it won't pass under warranty" , then go for it.

Not so important? Daily driver and you're so busy working on other peoples rides that you don't have neither the time nor budget to change unwarranteed subs but you love it when your teeth rattle? Then be careful. Do so with moderation.

Not important at all? Very expensive or rare sub which will have you weeping like a baby if it starts to buzz 'cause your car is set up for sound-q. What if it doesn't give you a 3dB gain before or after clipping? then it's pretty obvious.

... and heat.  Clipping causes the voice coil to get much hotter than under normal operation.

Good catch.  That should have read thermal or mechanical power handling.