Glossary of Terms - Speaker Terminology

Speaker Terminology

Dual Cone
A dual cone speaker is classed as a full range speaker, but instead of using a separate tweeter, it has a small cone in the center directly connected to the voice coil that reproduces the high range frequencies due to its specific design. While inexpensive compared to a separate tweeter, it is not as efficient.

Mid-range Speaker
This refers to a speaker that generally ranges in size from 3—1/2” to 6—3/4” that reproduces the mid range frequencies. They would be generally be used in a system that has separate speakers for low,mid and high range that are driven individually.

Tweeter
The high range frequencies are reproduced by the tweeter. In two and three way speakers the tweeter is mounted in the center of the mid cone on a pole piece, and in component speakers it is a separate unit.

Components or Separates
Component systems produce better definition and detail, as well as giving you the ability to optimize imaging and sound stage reproduction. This is partly due to the vastly superior cross-over system used in most component systems and the ability to place tweeters in the best position to enhance imaging.

Sound stage
This refers to the individual vocal and instrumental “images” that are reproduced to create your stereo system's sound stage. The better the sound stage reproduction, the greater the perception of width and depth.

Imaging
Imaging is the ability your stereo system has to reproduce the location of individual instruments and vocalists accurately as they were positioned during the original recording. Tweeter placement is important, ideally with equal and unobstructed path lengths between your tweeters and your ears, to create a sound stage that is lifelike.

Voice Coil
A voice coil is a length of insulated copper or aluminium wire wound onto a circular former that provides the motive force to the cone by reacting with the magnet when the current is passed through it.

Speaker Surround
Surrounds can be manufactured from a variety of materials. The most common in car audio is butyl rubber as it tends to last longer. Some manufacturers use foam or cloth. The surround allows the cone to travel in and out without restricting the length of travel.

Maximum / Peak Power
The Max/Peak power rating of a speaker is the amount of power that the speaker can handle in short bursts or peaks without causing permanent damage to the voice coil. If this rating is exceeded constantly you will risk burning the voice coil.