Can Frequency Sweeps Damage Speakers?


Ayre makes a CD with frequency sweeps from 5hz upwards, which I would like to use to more accurately integrate my subwoofer into my system. I obviously don't plan on running the sweeps at 100db, but is there a general threshold where speaker damage starts becoming more likely? I thought any speaker with a crossover network would protect the woofers from even receiving the "too low" frequencies, but I read some horror stories and I just want to make sure frequency sweeps are ok to use before I go ruining my equipment.

- Dusty
128x128heyitsmedusty

Showing 1 response by rpfef

I can tell you that I used the Ayre CD to burn out all the treble drivers on both of my Shahinian Hawks. My Hawks have 7 treble drivers (+four mids) and are said to be able to handle 350 Watts without difficulty.
And I still don't know if I can actually hear a 15khz tone.

Be extremely careful with this disc or any other that feeds single frequencies into your speakers. Especially remember that you MAY NOT HEAR HIGH FREQUENCIES AT ALL while you are destroying drivers. All drivers are different. You can never be sure you are safe, I recommend VERY low levels when trying to do a frequency curve of your speakers. I myself wouldn't risk it above maybe 75db and, even then, remember that voice coil overheating can occur from even lower level tones if they are repeated continuously.
I think you would be safest by consulting the manufacturer of your speakers before entering this dangerous territory.