Speaker frequency range

NeilGabriel

So, speakers usually have two frequency ranges given in specs, and the second one, which I assume to be the more useful is a range across some dB rating...often +/- 3 dB. I assume this means a frequency range at a given volume range? If not, then what? And could someone point me to a good reading on dB meters on amps? As in, what all these plus and minus numbers mean anyway? Thanks a lot.

Jim Shearer

NeilGabriel wrote: »

So, speakers usually have two frequency ranges given in specs, and the second one, which I assume to be the more useful is a range across some dB rating...often +/- 3 dB. I assume this means a frequency range at a given volume range? If not, then what? And could someone point me to a good reading on dB meters on amps? As in, what all these plus and minus numbers mean anyway? Thanks a lot.

It's the range w/ the +/- 3db that you want to pay attention to. This tells you that the loudness variation over the range is limited to no more than +3db or -3db. Without that spec, the range is pretty meaningless. (Note: a 3db change is just enough for you to notice.) The end points of the range are usually where responce has dropped by 3db. Since Polk uses ported designs, the responce on the low freq. end drops rather quickly after that point. In acoustic suspension designs, the bass freq. drops off more slowly.

Cheers, Jim

NeilGabriel

Thanks. That makes more sense than what I was thinking for sure. I have been obsessed with speakers lately and am trying to determine which speakers work best with the different set ups (aka rigs) I have.

Spacedeckman

NeilGabriel wrote: »

Thanks. That makes more sense than what I was thinking for sure. I have been obsessed with speakers lately and am trying to determine which speakers work best with the different set ups (aka rigs) I have.

Forget the numbers, and use your ears. Any time you use numbers to put together a system, you are going to get hosed. Any audio numbers need to be taken with a grain of salt, since the probably don't mean what you think they mean.

The only speaker obsession you should have is to listen to them, and choose the best sounding one that fits your application and budget. Speakers are the biggest difference you can ever make in a system. Each designer has what they think is the "best" sound. You may totally disagree with that designer's ideas, but the numbers look great on paper...especially the ones that were "embellished" for marketing purposes.

Space

steveinaz

Agree, specs are a very rough guideline. Frequency response will most likely change dramatically in your listening room. Don't get too hung-up with the numbers.

Jim Shearer

+1 to Space's comments. Use the freq ranges to help you decide on setting X-over for HT use and deciding on if the system is listenable in 2 ch. w/o sub. Speaker specs tell you almost NOTHING about the sound of a speaker. I love Consumer Reports, but their ratings of speakers was a total joke.:p Only you can decide if the sound of a given speaker is pleasing.

Cheers, Jim