Basic terms and knowledge you need to know when starting with home theater audio.
Each year, we receive a flood of inquiries through calls and emails from our esteemed customers, all eager to gain a better understanding of home audio systems. Many of these questions originate from beginners, who often possess only a rudimentary knowledge of acoustic principles. Every case is different, and individuals typically learn as they go, addressing challenges only when they arise.
To assist our beginner users, we have gathered crucial acoustic insights along with a collection of commonly asked questions and their answers about home speakers. Our goal is to present this information in a straightforward and user-friendly way, ensuring it benefits all who engage with it.
Number One: Basic Acoustics Terminology
15. Distortion : Audio distortion can be categorized into three main types: harmonic, intermodulation, and transient.
Harmonic distortion occurs when additional high-order harmonics are introduced to the original sound that weren't there initially.
Intermodulation distortion mainly influences the sound's tonal quality.
Transient distortion is due to the speaker's inability to keep up with fast changes in the electrical signal, caused by lag and vibrations in the speaker's structure. This distortion is significant for speakers as it directly affects sound quality. Transient distortion is measured in percentages, with lower values indicating less distortion. For typical home audio speakers, distortion levels are generally below 0.5%, while subwoofers can have distortion levels under 5% that are still considered acceptable.
16. SNR : The SNR, or signal-to-noise ratio, measures how strong a signal is in relation to the surrounding noise. It indicates how well a signal can be heard in a noisy setting. A higher SNR means the signal is clearer, while a lower SNR suggests it is more impacted by noise, such as sounds from cars, planes, or conversations.
17. Pitch/Tone : Pitch is the consistent tone of a sound that helps us identify it as high or low. It is mostly based on frequency, but how loud the sound is can also affect it. When we hear a sound with a high frequency, we think of it as high pitch, and a low frequency sound is seen as low pitch. The connection between pitch and frequency, which is measured in Hertz (Hz) or Kilohertz (KHz), follows a logarithmic pattern. Even if different instruments play the same frequency, the sound's quality, known as timbre, can change. However, the basic frequency remains the same.
18. Tone Color : Sound quality is a key feature that makes sounds different from one another. Instruments can play the same note, but they produce different tonal colors. This is because they have the same fundamental frequency, yet their harmonic components are not the same. As a result, timbre is affected by both the basic frequency and the harmonics, giving each instrument and individual their own unique sound.
19. Dynamic Range: The difference between the loudest and quietest sounds is shown in decibels (dB). For instance, if a band has a dynamic range of 90 dB, the softest sound is 90 dB less powerful than the loudest. This range measures power differences without looking at the actual sound level. Humans can hear sounds from 0 to 130 dB. Natural sounds vary widely; typical speech is around 20 dB, while some symphonies can reach 30 to 130 dB or even higher. However, sound systems often fall short of the dynamic range found in live music. The softest sound a recording device can capture is influenced by its internal noise, while the loudest sound is limited by the system's maximum capacity. The best dynamic range for sound signals is 100 dB. Therefore, a sound system that achieves this range is ideal.
20. THD: Harmonic distortion means that additional harmonic signals are present in the output compared to the input. This distortion arises from the system's lack of complete linearity. The total amount of these extra harmonics is referred to as total harmonic distortion (THD). THD varies with frequency, typically being lowest at 1000 Hz. Because of this, many products highlight their distortion levels at this frequency as a key performance measure.
21. Stereo Separation: Stereo separation describes how isolated two audio channels are and how much they influence one another. This is often measured by the difference in signal levels between the channels and how much one channel's signal leaks into the other. Weak stereo separation can diminish the overall listening experience.
22. Damping Factor: The damping factor measures the relationship between the impedance of the speaker and that of the power amplifier. A larger damping coefficient means the amplifier has lower output resistance. This coefficient shows how well the amplifier can control the loudspeaker cone's movement after the signal ends. Amplifiers with a high damping coefficient behave like a short circuit for the loudspeaker, which helps to lessen its vibrations after the signal is finished.
23. Frequency Range: In audio, treble, midrange, and bass represent different sound frequency ranges, each with specific features:
Frequency Ranges :
Low frequency: 20Hz-40Hz
Mid-low frequency: 40Hz-80Hz
Mid-frequency: 80Hz-800Hz
Mid-high frequency: 800Hz-4kHz
High frequency: 4kHz-8kHz
Ultra-high frequency: 8kHz-15kHz and above
Treble: This refers to the higher frequencies, usually above 2000 Hz. Treble sounds are bright and sharp but are often quieter.
Midrange: This range is between bass and treble, typically from 300 Hz to 2000 Hz. It creates more natural sounds and is key for the clarity of music and voices.
Bass: Bass includes the lower frequencies, from 20 Hz to 300 Hz. These sounds are deep and heavy, making a strong impact. Bass is vital for the overall sound experience, especially in music and effects.
24. How is the sound produced?
Sound is produced when objects undergo vibrations within a medium. For example, when a speaker's diaphragm vibrates, it alters the density of the adjacent air molecules, leading to the generation of sound waves. These waves subsequently induce vibrations in the eardrum, which transmits signals to the brain, enabling the perception of sound.
25. What is resonance, and how does it affect the sound quality of a speaker?
The phenomenon of resonance occurs when the frequency of an externally applied vibration coincides with the natural frequency of an object. This synchronization enables the object to vibrate intensely with minimal energy input, which can lead to potentially damaging vibrations. In a speaker system, the diaphragm's vibrations are conveyed to the cabinet via the driver unit, which remains stationary within the enclosure. Some of the energy involved is absorbed and transformed into heat, while the rest is released as sound waves. The resonance sounds, which are not generated by the original audio source, can negatively impact the speaker's playback fidelity, especially in the lower frequency spectrum.
26. What are the sound absorption coefficient and sound absorption? What is the relationship between them?
The effectiveness of sound absorption is commonly quantified by the sound absorption level, represented by the symbol "α." This level is determined through the equation α = 1 - K, where K signifies the sound energy reflection coefficient. Sound absorption is articulated in terms of the sound absorption coefficient alongside the surface area of the material in question. The correlation between these variables is defined by the equation α = A/S, where A denotes the sound absorption. Various materials exhibit distinct sound absorption coefficients. To attain a uniform sound absorption level, it is possible to modify the sound absorption area of the material.
27. What are the characteristics of reverberation? What are the differences between reverberation time and delay time?
When a listener perceives sound, they experience a blend of direct sound and sound that has bounced off surfaces.
Reverberation exhibits several key features:
a. There is a noticeable time gap between the arrival of direct sound and its reflections, as well as between each subsequent echo.
b. The loudness of direct sound is not the same as that of the reflected sound.
c. Once the sound source stops, the direct sound diminishes first, while the reflected sound continues to resonate in the space before it too fades away.
It's important to distinguish between reverberation time and delay time: Reverberation time measures how long it takes for the sound energy in a room to drop to one-millionth of its initial level (60 decibels) after the sound source has stopped. In contrast, delay time indicates the lag in the sound signal. The reflections of sound waves within the room play a significant role in creating reverberation.
28. What are the refraction and diffraction of sound waves?
Refraction of sound waves refers to the bending of sound as it travels through different media. This occurs due to changes in the speed of sound when it moves from one material to another. When sound waves encounter a wall or an object, they can curve around the edge, a phenomenon known as diffraction.
Diffraction becomes more pronounced when the size of the obstacle or opening is comparable to the wavelength of the sound. Longer wavelengths, which correspond to lower frequencies, diffract more easily than shorter wavelengths found in higher frequencies. If a speaker's front baffle is vast and its corners are not treated, it can result in severe diffraction, negatively affecting sound quality.
For example, our Verus series speakers feature raised edges around the front panel. The depth of these edges is minimal, and during the design and testing phases, we determined that they do not negatively affect the sound performance of either high or low frequencies.
29. What is a standing wave? How does sound wave propagation in a room create a standing wave? Does the concept of standing wave vibration make sense?
A standing wave occurs when two harmonics of identical frequency travel in opposite directions and overlap. In a typical room, various sound waves coexist, including both incoming (incident) waves and their reflections moving back. When these reflected waves meet the path of the incident waves, they create a standing wave. This interaction causes the medium to vibrate at certain points, either amplifying the sound waves or completely canceling them out, resulting in areas of silence.
The way we perceive standing waves can lead to distorted sound. This distortion is akin to the severe nonlinear effects seen in a power amplifier, which can significantly compromise sound quality in indoor settings. Once standing waves are established, they can be difficult to remove. Listeners positioned in different areas of a room affected by these waves may notice inconsistent sound levels at particular frequencies, resulting in a frequency response that lacks smoothness and features abrupt peaks and dips. This phenomenon is especially prominent at low frequencies, particularly those below 500 Hz.
Therefore, when planning indoor spaces or designing speaker cabinets, it is vital to consider the impact of standing waves to ensure a positive listening experience.
30. Bi-Wire: This technique for transmitting audio involves the use of two pairs of speaker cables to independently deliver power to the treble and mid-bass channels of a speaker system. It is often found in two-way and three-way speaker setups. Although it is typically linked to high-end audio systems, it has not yet been acknowledged as an official international technical standard or a recognized industrial standard, resulting in continued discussions about its effectiveness.
31. Biamping Bi-amping refers to a setup where each driver in a speaker is powered by its own dedicated amplifier channel. In the case of two-way speakers, this setup necessitates the use of two stereo amplifiers and two pairs of speaker cables.
32. What is a crossover, and what is its function?
A crossover is a vital circuit element found in speaker systems, made up of capacitors, inductors, and resistors. It functions as a filtering mechanism, breaking down the incoming music signal into different frequency categories, such as treble, midrange, and bass. The crossover then routes these distinct signals to the appropriate speaker drivers—tweeters for high frequencies, midrange drivers for the middle range, and woofers for the low end—ensuring that each part of the audio spectrum is played back accurately.
33. Dolby Surround is an audio technology that integrates rear effect channels into stereo sound. To experience the surround sound effect during playback, a decoder is necessary to extract the surround signal from the encoded audio.
34. Dolby Pro Logic Developed by Dolby Laboratories, this audio coding technology is a game-changer in sound reproduction. It cleverly simulates the effects of four channels through only two speakers, delivering an immersive surround sound experience. This technology shines in home theater environments, where it enhances the clarity of dialogue, making every word crystal clear.
35. Dolby Digital, Known as AC-3, Dolby Digital is a digital sound format that features audio from five separate channels: left front, center, right front, left surround, and right surround. Each of these channels operates with its own full-band audio signals. There’s also a specific channel for the subwoofer, referred to as the 0.1 channel. Together, these components create the 5.1-channel audio system.
36. Dolby Atmos: Developed by Dolby Laboratories, Dolby Atmos is a cutting-edge surround sound technology that elevates the listening experience. By introducing height channels, it transforms standard surround sound systems, enabling sounds to be perceived as three-dimensional entities that can travel beyond just horizontal and vertical limits.
37. What are THX and THX 5.1?
Developed by Lucasfilm, THX is a surround sound standard that enhances the Dolby Pro Logic system, offering an enriched audio experience. The THX standard sets high benchmarks for playback equipment, which includes audio and video sources, amplifiers, speakers, rooms, and cables. Only products that comply with these standards and are certified by Lucasfilm can proudly display the THX logo. The THX standards are primarily divided into two levels: "THX Ultra," known for its rigorous requirements, and "THX Select."
38. DTS, Which stands for Digital Theater System, is a home audio system that provides an immersive surround sound experience through distinct channels. It uses independent 5.1 channels to produce sound, setting itself apart from Dolby Digital by offering a higher bit rate and superior resolution, positioning it as a formidable rival in the realm of surround sound technology.
39. DSP or digital signal processing, refers to a technology that, when integrated with a specialized microprocessor in speakers, can mimic the acoustics of various settings like concert halls, classrooms, and jazz clubs. This innovative technology also plays a crucial role in decoding different types of environmental sound signals.
40. A DAC The Digital-to-Analog Converter, or DAC, plays a crucial role in converting digital audio signals into their analog counterparts, which is essential for devices like CDs and DVDs. It can also operate independently as a separate unit, frequently referred to as a decoder when paired with a CD player.
41. Bits and Bit Stream: In the realm of binary digital signals, bits are the fundamental units, each signifying one of two states: 0 or 1.
The term bit stream is linked to a technology called DSD, or Direct Stream Digital, developed by Philips and Sony. This innovation allows for the conversion of digital signals from CDs into analog music signals.
42. Sampling Rate and Over Sampling:
Sampling rate is a measure of how quickly a digital recorder or player captures audio signals. For instance, the standard rate for CD, DCC (Digital Compact Cassette), and MD (MiniDisc) formats is 44.1 kHz, which translates to 44,100 samples per second. DAT (Digital Audio Tape) can work at either 48 kHz or 44.1 kHz, while digital audio broadcasting typically uses a sampling rate of 32 kHz. This sampling rate is essential as it determines the highest frequency that can be recorded by a digital system. DVD-Audio, on the other hand, boasts a high sampling rate of 96 kHz.
Oversampling involves employing a sampling frequency that is much greater than the standard 44.1 kHz used in CDs. This technique primarily serves to minimize digital noise following the digital-to-analog (D/A) conversion and to enhance the phase distortion in CD players. In the past, CD players typically featured 2x or 4x oversampling, but today’s technology has advanced to achieve oversampling rates of 8x or even beyond.
43. Audio source equipment When it comes to audio source equipment, we can categorize it into two essential groups: analog and digital.
Analog devices feature AM/FM radios, turntables, tape players, and video recorders. In contrast, digital devices are represented by CD players, laser disc players, DVD players, SACD players, digital broadcasting tools, and VCD players.
44. Power Amplifier Type: Power amplifiers are divided into different categories based on how they operate and their specific traits, including Class A, Class B, Class AB, and Class D.
**Class A Power Amplifier** The Class A power amplifier is a type of linear amplifier that maintains the transistor in an active mode continuously, even when no signal is being processed. This design leads to a lower efficiency, usually ranging from 20% to 30%. Although Class A amplifiers are known for their minimal distortion and superior sound quality, they consume a lot of power, produce considerable heat, and require substantial heat management solutions.
**Class B Power Amplifier**: Class B power amplifiers increase efficiency by deactivating the transistor when no signal is present. This approach can theoretically yield efficiency levels of up to 78%. However, it may result in crossover distortion during signal transitions, which can compromise the sound quality.
**Class AB Power Amplifier**: Class AB power amplifiers merge the advantages of both Class A and Class B designs. They dynamically regulate the power of the transistors, delivering exceptional sound quality while improving amplification efficiency, which usually falls between 50% and 70%. This amplifier type is frequently found in car audio systems.
Our Energy Power Amplifiers are Class AB type.
**Class D Power Amplifier**: Class D amplifiers utilize a switching mechanism that boasts impressive efficiency, potentially surpassing 90%. They are known for their low power consumption, minimal distortion, and quick conversion rates, which makes them perfect for scenarios demanding substantial power, like car audio systems or delivering powerful deep bass. On the downside, Class D amplifiers struggle with wide-band applications, often falling short in their mid and high-frequency output.
Our Bravus II Powered Subwoofers use Class D amplifiers.
These groupings are determined by specific functional principles and attributes, allowing them to cater to various audio devices and their unique application needs.
No.2 What is a driver unit?
The driver unit is an essential device that transforms electrical signals into sound waves, playing a crucial role in generating audio within a sound system. It utilizes an electromagnetic driver to convert these signals into audible sound, effectively reproducing music and other audio content. Driver units are typically divided into three categories: woofers, midrange, and tweeters. Each type is specifically engineered to manage distinct frequency ranges: woofers deliver deep bass sounds, midrange units focus on middle frequencies, and tweeters are responsible for high-frequency sounds.
1. Working Principle of the Driver Unit:
At the heart of the driver unit lies an electromagnetic driver. The process it follows can be broken down into several steps.
a. When audio gear transmits an electrical signal to the driver unit, the current travels through the voice coil.
b. As the current passes through the coil, it generates a magnetic field that fluctuates in accordance with the audio signal.
c. The resulting magnetic forces cause the voice coil to move, which then drives the diaphragm or cone of the driver units.
d. The movement of the diaphragm pushes against the air, producing the sound waves that reach our ears.
2. What is the structure of a driver unit?
The majority of typical speakers are equipped with dynamic driver units. These units are made up of three essential components: the magnet, the diaphragm, and the supporting framework.
a. Magnet: This assembly consists of the upper and lower washers, the magnet itself, and the T-York component.
An electric current flowing through the voice coil creates a magnetic field that intersects with the magnetic lines of force in the gap. This interaction results in a powerful and consistent magnetic field. To achieve the same sound pressure level, it is necessary to enhance the diaphragm's vibration amplitude, which means increasing its displacement distance. It's also critical to keep dust and debris from entering the magnetic gap to avoid generating unwanted noise. The washers play a vital role by ensuring that the voice coil vibrates vertically along the T-York's center axis within the air gap of the magnetic steel, while also dampening any free vibrations of the diaphragm.
b. Diaphragm Components: Key components of the consist of the cone (Diaphragm), spider, voice coil, and the dust cap.
c. Support Structure The term support structure pertains to the driver faceplate, frame, or basket. Notably, the basket is key in fastening and linking the magnetic circuit component to the vibration section.
3. The Material Used for Driver Units:
Throughout the century-long journey of speaker development, the selection of materials, craftsmanship methods, and structural designs has undergone significant transformation. Each material and quality brings its own unique sound profile, complete with its own set of pros and cons.
The tweeter There are three main types of tweeters: hard dome, soft dome, and composite membrane dome.
Hard dome: The hard dome is made from lightweight metals such as aluminum and titanium alloys, boasting an ultra-thin alloy surface that undergoes chemical treatment. This process produces a bright, clear tone with exceptional resolution.
Composite dome: The composite dome tweeter features a design that incorporates multiple materials, specifically a silk dome paired with an aluminum film. This innovative approach yields a sound that captures the bright clarity typical of hard domes, alongside the warm, smooth, and layered auditory experience that silk domes are praised for.
The construction of mid/bass driver units typically involves an array of materials, featuring paper, ceramic, Kevlar, fiberglass, wool, and polypropylene cones.
Paper Cone: This material strikes a balance between rigidity and flexibility, providing excellent internal damping and facilitating easy blending with other materials. It delivers a rich, full-bodied sound with robust bass response. However, it struggles with moisture resistance and consistency during the manufacturing process.
The acoustic qualities of this diaphragm are smooth and natural, lacking overly pronounced or harsh elements, which makes it a favorite among many listeners. The internal fibers of the paper cone diaphragm work together to quickly absorb sound energy during transmission, resulting in commendable damping properties. Additionally, the paper cone is lightweight and boasts high energy conversion efficiency. However, it is sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, making it vulnerable to environmental fluctuations. Extreme conditions can lead to permanent deformation. Thankfully, ongoing technological advancements are enhancing the waterproof capabilities of paper cones.
Fiberglass Cone: The use of fiberglass in cone design provides several advantages, such as being lightweight, corrosion-resistant, waterproof, and exceptionally durable, all of which contribute to meeting specific performance criteria. However, there is still room for improvement in terms of sound quality and texture.
Wool Fiber Cone: This innovative material features a mix of wool fibers and paper pulp, resulting in a soft texture that enhances the experience of listening to gentle music. The human voice is rendered with a pure and natural quality, immersing listeners in the beauty of melodious compositions like symphonies. However, it does struggle with bass response, making it less suitable for certain music styles, including rock, hip-hop, and marches.
Polypropylene Cone : This type of cone delivers reliable performance, minimal distortion, and versatility across various applications. Commonly used in automotive audio systems, polypropylene cones are valued for their moisture resistance and low distortion characteristics. The absorption of moisture can greatly affect the cone's mass, quality factor, resonance frequency, and tuning in vented designs. Typically, these cones are produced through a thermoforming process, where heated polypropylene is molded using vacuum pressure. The performance can differ based on the grade and the fillers incorporated into the material.
Ceramic Cone: This element excels in delivering nuanced vocal renditions and classical compositions, showcasing remarkable transients in the mid-bass spectrum. It generates a rich and robust sound with outstanding dynamic capabilities, precise bass response, and accurate spatial positioning. This component is especially adept at conveying the intensity and drama of cinematic soundtracks.
No.3 Speaker Type:
A speaker is a device that transforms electrical signals into audible sound. One of the key factors in determining a speaker's performance is how accurately it reproduces sound.
Speakers can be categorized according to their sound generation methods and internal designs. The primary types include : ported, sealed, flat plate, horn, and labyrinth speakers, with sealed and ported (or inverted) designs being the most prominent.
Sealed speakers are fully contained within a cabinet, which often leads to reduced bass performance.
On the other hand, ported speakers feature circular or slit-like openings on their front or back panels. They function according to the Helmholtz resonator principle, providing benefits like increased sensitivity, superior power handling, and an expansive dynamic range. Because sound waves from the rear of the speaker are released through these openings, ported designs tend to be more efficient than their sealed counterparts.
Installing a loudspeaker in a thoughtfully crafted ported box allows it to produce low-frequency sound pressure that is 3 dB higher than that of the same speaker in a sealed box of the same volume. This advantage in low-frequency performance is a major reason why ported speakers are so favored among audio enthusiasts.
Bookshelf Speakers: Bookshelf speakers are ideal for those seeking a compact audio solution that can easily fit on a shelf. These speakers are usually one-third to one-fourth the size of regular floor-standing speakers and are equipped with two driver units—one dedicated to high frequencies and the other for mid and low frequencies. Because of their size limitations, the woofers in bookshelf speakers tend to be small, typically not exceeding 8 inches, with some models featuring cones as small as 3 inches.
Floorstanding/Tower Speakers: The floorstanding speaker stands out with its considerable size and strength, showcasing exceptional depth and elasticity in the lower frequencies. It powerfully conveys the energy of sound, creating an immersive listening experience.
Center Speakers: A home theater system relies heavily on the center-channel speaker, which is vital for accurately reproducing dialogue and sound effects in films. In a typical 5.1-channel surround sound arrangement, this speaker is ideally located right below the screen and centered for optimal sound delivery. It specializes in projecting character dialogue and specific audio cues, ensuring that the audience can easily follow the conversations happening on screen.
Surround Speakers: Designed to capture audio signals from surround sound channels, surround speakers are typically set up to the side or behind the listener. Surround sound is all about recreating audio from different angles, allowing the listener to feel completely surrounded by sound. By placing surround speakers in optimal locations, the overall audio experience is significantly enhanced, offering a more immersive and three-dimensional sound environment.
Height Speakers: Height channel speakers are specifically crafted to be mounted above the viewing area. They operate by broadcasting independent signals, which allows them to produce sound effects from above. This design enhances the audio experience, making listeners feel enveloped in sound and providing richer, more intricate sound effects.
Reflective/Height Speakers: The Dolby Atmos Reflection/Height Channel Speaker is engineered to replicate the sensation of overhead sound channels through a unique reflection technique. Its main purpose is to elevate the immersive audio experience associated with Dolby Atmos. Rather than being mounted on the ceiling, this speaker cleverly bounces sound off the ceiling or walls to produce a lifelike overhead audio effect.
Subwoofer: The subwoofer is a high-performance speaker engineered to boost low-frequency audio. Its key purpose is to produce deep, powerful bass, enhancing the overall sound experience and making music and films feel more engaging and three-dimensional.
Desktop speakers: These compact desktop speakers are perfect for small areas, making them an excellent addition to your workspace. They are generally easy to move and offer solid sound quality for their size.
Full-range Speakers: A full-range speaker operates with just one speaker driver, simplifying its construction and allowing for more straightforward manufacturing and adjustment.
Custom Installation Speakers: Custom-installed speakers are unique audio solutions that can be embedded within walls or ceilings. Often utilized in home theaters as well as professional music and film studios, these speakers are engineered to blend effortlessly with the interior design, offering a minimalist aesthetic that conserves space. Despite their low-profile appearance, they deliver sound quality that matches or even outperforms traditional home theater setups.
Studio Monitor Speakers: Designed for professional use, studio monitor speakers are audio tools that accurately reproduce sound across three key frequency bands: high, mid, and low. The defining feature of these speakers is their commitment to unaltered sound playback, which means they deliver the original audio signal without any modifications. This attribute is what makes them indispensable in environments like recording studios, audio production spaces, and performance control rooms, where precise sound reproduction is vital. Unlike conventional speakers, monitor speakers offer a neutral sound profile with high resolution and low distortion, enabling a deeper appreciation of the audio's finer details.
Electrostatic Speakers: The operation of electrostatic speakers hinges on electrostatic principles, distinguishing them from standard dynamic speakers. In these speakers, a membrane is allowed to vibrate freely between two fixed electrodes. When an audio signal is converted into a variable electric field through a high voltage, this field exerts a force on the membrane, causing it to oscillate. This oscillation moves the air around it, creating sound waves.
Thanks to this innovative design, electrostatic speakers achieve a very low distortion rate, as the membrane's weight is almost identical to that of the air. This minimizes issues related to split vibrations and inertia, which are often encountered in traditional dynamic speakers. Consequently, the sound produced is exceptionally balanced and natural, with remarkable detail, effectively capturing the true essence of the audio.
Pro Audio Speaker: Professional audio speakers are specialized devices crafted for live performances and events. Their main purpose is to amplify sound, making sure that the audience can clearly hear the performer. Moreover, they contribute to the energy and overall effect of the show.
While there are various kinds of speakers available, we have only highlighted the primary categories, leaving out many other types.
No.4 Words to describe the sound:
Pitch Notes : When we talk about pitch range, we're referring to the extent of notes an instrument or a human voice can produce, from the highest to the lowest.
Timbre : Known as tone color, timbre is the specific quality of sound that helps listeners identify and differentiate between various musical instruments and vocal performances.
Audio coloration : When we talk about audio coloration, we're discussing how sound can stray from its natural neutrality, taking on traits that aren't present in the original recording. For instance, if you were to speak into a can, the resulting sound would be noticeably different. This concept involves either enhancing or diminishing specific aspects of the sound signal, which ultimately distorts the original audio.
Distortion : When a device is unable to completely mirror its input, distortion arises, causing alterations in the waveform and variations in the signal's elements.
Dynamic : This provides the capability to document the ratio of peak to lowest information.
Transient Response : Transient response is all about an instrument's capacity to quickly track sudden musical cues. A top-notch instrument or speaker with outstanding transient response will instantly engage when a signal is detected and will halt just as promptly when the signal ends, with no delay whatsoever. The piano serves as a prime illustration of this quality.
SNR : The Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) quantifies the useful signal elements in relation to background noise, typically represented in decibels. A greater SNR signifies that a device generates less noise.
Airy, or Spacious ： The terms airy and spacious are used in acoustics to characterize the brilliance of treble frequencies and the distance between instruments in the audio environment. Here, the high-frequency response can extend as high as 15–20 kHz. In contrast, words like "dull" and "thick" serve as antonyms.
Low-frequency extension : The term low-frequency extension describes the minimum frequency that an audio device can effectively reproduce. This specification is essential for evaluating how well a sound system or speaker can handle deep bass sounds. For instance, a smaller subwoofer might manage a low-frequency response of 40Hz, while a larger model could extend down to 16Hz.
Transient : Transient describes the quick fluctuations in sound intensity, whether it’s a sudden increase or decrease. A more effective transient is characterized by a shorter time to reach a designated sound pressure level. This feature highlights the skill in controlling sound, preventing elements from clashing in an undesirable way.
Fullness of Sound ：The harmony of high, mid, and low frequencies in the audio playback is just right; the highs are well-balanced, the mids are ample, and the overall sound is dynamic.
Clarity : The term clarity in music equipment describes the quality of sound, which is attained by shortening reverberation time and balancing the various frequency ranges: high, low, and mid.
Balance : Within the music landscape, balance signifies the delightful ratios of its diverse components, coupled with a consistent spread across every channel.
Intensity : The sound possesses a strong and powerful quality, indicating a readiness to break through while also reflecting the diverse range of tones from the source.
Rich Sound : When we talk about a rich sound, we refer to a beautiful and inviting auditory experience that is smooth and well-balanced, steering clear of any sharpness or overwhelming intensity.
Gentle/Soft Sound : This expression captures a sound that is characterized by a relaxed and open nature, completely free from tension. In this scenario, the high notes are smooth and gentle, steering clear of any harshness that might disrupt the listening experience. This fosters an auditory journey that is both soothing and enjoyable, allowing listeners to feel relaxed while engaging with the music. The overall environment is one of comfort, making it suitable for extended listening without any strain or discomfort.
Sound fusion : The concept of sound fusion is all about merging different sounds to produce a unified and engaging auditory experience.
Realistic Sound refers to sound's ability to preserve its original characteristics.
Reproduction : By reproducing sound effectively, listeners are drawn into an immersive experience, feeling as if they are living within the scene itself.
The idea of three-dimensional sound perception perception revolves around a person's ability to recognize and interpret sounds in their environment. This encompasses the skill of pinpointing the location of sound sources and appreciating the spatial dimensions of sound, including its width and depth.
No.5 Home Audio FAQ:
1. Do small speakers outperform large speakers in sound quality?
The answer is no. Nonetheless, small speakers offer specific advantages that larger ones do not:
A. Their reduced front panel size can enhance the focus of the sound stage in confined listening areas.
B. The crossover network in small speakers is simpler, making it easier to fine-tune.
C. They are typically more cost-effective. On the other hand, well-crafted floor-standing speakers usually provide a more reliable frequency response and a well-balanced output across high, mid, and low frequencies, allowing for a more realistic audio reproduction. Thus, the physical attributes of larger speakers generally give them an edge over smaller models, especially when they are designed, matched, and placed correctly in an ideal environment.
2. Does a heavier speaker produce better sound?
Answer: Not necessarily.
The weight of a speaker often reflects the use of denser materials in its construction, which can help minimize vibrations and improve sound quality.
Many manufacturers utilize thick medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or high-density fiberboard (HDF) for this reason.
Moreover, some speakers are designed with internal bracing and sound chambers to enhance their structural integrity and reduce unwanted resonance and standing waves.
3. Will bi-wiring improve the sound quality?
Answer: In most cases, traditional speakers feature just one set of input terminals. This means that the amplifier transmits a full-range signal through a single pair of speaker cables, with a crossover managing the division of high and low frequencies internally.
Conversely, bi-wiring utilizes two sets of speaker cables to connect the amplifier to the speaker, allowing high and low frequencies to travel separately and reducing interference. To achieve bi-wiring, the input ends of the treble and bass channels in the crossover must be separated, which requires speakers with two sets of terminals. This arrangement can enhance the distinction between high and low frequencies, leading to a more realistic, clear, and pleasant sound.
Bi-wiring often requires extra gear and modifications, which can complicate and elevate the cost of an audio setup. Many audiophiles argue that the added expense doesn't significantly enhance sound quality, considering it more of an extravagant option than a necessity.
Sound quality is a personal experience, influenced by individual tastes and sensitivities. Therefore, while bi-wiring might improve specific sound characteristics, not every audiophile will notice or appreciate these enhancements.
4. What is the purpose of using sound-absorbing cotton in speakers?
Answer: Sound-absorbing materials play a crucial role in managing airflow within speakers, effectively minimizing standing waves and resonance.
Typical options for these materials include wool, glass wool, felt, and acoustic foam.
In a sealed speaker cabinet, it’s essential that the sound waves generated behind the driver(s) are completely absorbed. This is why sound-absorbing cotton is often used to fill the entire enclosure, enhancing its overall volume. The quantity of sound-absorbing material needed for a bass reflex speaker cabinet is influenced by the Q factor of the speakers.
3. Why do home speakers primarily use traditional dome tweeters, while professional speakers favor horn-type compression tweeters?
Answer: Known for their ability to produce smooth mid and high frequencies at close range, dome tweeters excel in sound quality, making them a popular choice for home audio systems. In contrast, horn-type compression tweeters have a frequency response that increases with distance, making them suitable for long-distance listening. However, if not used correctly, they can cause hearing fatigue.
Additionally, horn tweeters are designed for wider sound dispersion, making them perfect for large venues such as theaters, concerts and dance halls, where broad sound coverage is necessary.
4. Does the Placement of Speakers Affect Sound Quality?
Answer: The way speakers are positioned greatly affects sound quality, given that each listening environment possesses unique acoustic traits.
a. Speaker Distance : If the speakers are excessively spaced apart, it can result in a diminished central image, a lackluster sound field, and audio that feels scattered.
b. Proximity to Rear Walls : Positioning speakers too near the back wall can disrupt the accurate reproduction of the intended sound field.
c. Side Wall Reflection : If speakers are too close to the side walls, they might generate strong first reflections, which can compromise the precision of the sound image.
Given the various environmental factors at play, the optimal location for speakers will vary across different settings. To find the best placement, experiment with moving the speakers while you listen to the audio.
When it comes to stereo HiFi speakers, a typical guideline suggests arranging them in an equilateral triangle with the listener. If there's enough room, positioning the speakers roughly one-third of the way down the room can lead to a remarkable soundstage.
5. Do two 6-inch woofers produce the same low-frequency energy as a 12-inch woofer?
Answer: The answer is no; two 6-inch woofers do not produce the same low-frequency energy as a 12-inch woofer. The low-frequency response and sound pressure of a woofer are influenced by how much air its cone can move. To make a smaller cone push the same volume of air as a larger one, you would need to increase its excursion significantly, which can result in intermodulation distortion.
Furthermore, larger woofers usually have a longer excursion than smaller ones. As a result, even with two 6-inch woofers, you won't reach the same performance level as a single 12-inch woofer. In fact, calculations show that the low-frequency output from two 6-inch woofers is roughly equivalent to that of an 8-inch woofer.
6. Is a larger voice coil better for a driver unit?
Answer: The size of the voice coil in a driver unit significantly affects its frequency response and sound pressure level, but it's not the only factor at play; the strength of the magnet also contributes to these characteristics. Different driver sizes necessitate different voice coil dimensions.
Typically, enlarging the voice coil diameter within certain parameters can enhance both frequency response and sensitivity. However, if the voice coil becomes excessively large and the magnet's strength is inadequate, it may result in increased costs and a decline in sound quality.
7. Does a better frequency response curve of a speaker equate to better sound quality?
Answer: The frequency response of a speaker is theoretically significant to its overall sound quality.
However, this quality is also influenced by various technical elements, including sensitivity and harmonic distortion. Ultimately, the best way to assess a speaker's quality is to rely on your own hearing.
For example, in a recent speaker evaluation, a panel of experts conducted blind listening tests and agreed that one specific speaker system produced exceptional sound. However, when tested in an anechoic chamber, its frequency response curve was not smooth. This demonstrates that a favorable frequency response curve does not guarantee high sound quality.
That's all for this time. We hope you have a great time!
Welcome to our " Aperion University " series! Here, we’ll break down the basics of acoustics in an easy-to-understand way. We trust that this will be useful for you. If you appreciate our content, please consider following us!
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