I posted this on the Asylum, but wanted to get as many opinions as possible.
Our cat cut a slice that looks like a number "7" into the rubber surround of one of my speakers. The woofer is a 6.8" Scanspeak driver which I know is expensive to replace. The speaker seems to sound ok but the cut is bothering me. Is there any kind of glue I can use to repair it without doing more damage to the speaker, or should I just leave it alone? Any help would be appreciated.
And for you guys who are suggesting destroying the cat...
Adam18- Since you apparently don't understand the concept of hyperbole, here is what Webster said about it: "the use of exaggeration as a rhetorical device or figure of speech. It may be used to evoke strong feelings or to create a strong impression, but is NOT MEANT TO BE TAKEN LITERALLY. Hyperboles are exaggerations to create emphasis or effect."
Chill out, dude! (tongue in cheek, also a rhetorical device)
I suppose people incapable, or unwilling, to do(or learn to do) simple tasks for themselves, is what keeps our economy fueled(at least the repair/service sectors). Then again- there are A LOT of people out there, that should NOT be allowed to lift a hammer, plug in an appliance or squeeze a tube of glue! A good percentage of the money I've earned in my lifetime has been a result of another's ineptitude. There is great wisdom in the quote, "A man has GOT to know his limitations!" Sorry- just felt the need to use a 3rd Order Butterworth Alignment for a minute(venting).
One of many reasons a "no pets" listing is a must when buying a used speaker. If it were my speaker, I'd try to replace the driver. If I couldn't, I would let a shop repair it. Just send the driver.
When I had issues with a Legacy 20/20 tweeter, they repaired it for me free. Even sent out a box built to hold the tweeter correctly free
Agree with Adam There is a simple solution that seems to work well for Vandy and Magie or most any speaker owners Pick up a spray can of Orange Citrus spray from Bed Bathe and Beyond and a couple plastic sandwich bags. Spray a fair amount into the Baggies and tape each one to the low back side of the speakers. You can also spray the base low section around the speaker as well. Cats seem not to like the orange citrus scent but pleasant to most folks with 2 legs. Cheers Johnnyr
Cyanoacrylate adhesive, used in minimal amounts, should work well. And for you guys who are suggesting destroying the cat.... you are cruel and crazy. If you have a pet, it's your responsibility to create an environment where they are nurtured and protected. Your cat or dog did not ask to live with you.... YOU decided to invite them into your home and your life. Be responsible !!!! I've had two cats and four dogs with my Vandersteens and tubes.... never any problems. There's enough crazy violence in this world already. Let's at least respect and take care of our pets !
Silicone will add weight to that section of the surround(not much, but...), and silicone does not adhere well to neoprene anyway. Get some Super Glue/Krazy Glue/cyanoacrylate adhesive, and dab a TINY bit exactly in the center of the cut, with the tip of a toothpick(don't spread the cut). capillary action will carry the adhesive into the cut, and left alone for a few minutes, the repair will be complete.
My cat has shredded my couch, but has shown no interest in scratching on anything else, including my Magnepans. She must sense somehow that she would get flying lessons if she ever messed with the Maggies!!
I sold a pair of Vandersteens many years ago after getting the "cat abused" grills replaced (by Vandersteen). Now THAT was a cat friendly speaker including the little "cat trampoline" on the top. I couldn't take having them ripped up again so I moved on to speakers less appealing to cats. A stern "no" to a cat? That worked? Really? When my current cat dies I'll reconsider Vandys maybe, although I prefer speakers with drivers I can see and remove for my own curiosity.
Your post caused me to investigate, just for fun. I used Parts Express for some old garage speakers, but yours are much nicer. I found a website that is interesting but I have not used them. They sell an adhesive just for this purpose as well as re-foam kits for many speakers.
I will try that recipe from the first response. Their is no love lost between me and my girlfriend's cat. Although her cat stays away from my speakers it terrorizes my little shih tzu which by the way is a better companion than that damn cat.
Not sure why you would want them reconed when the surround has a tear. I would contact the manufacturer and find out what a replacement would cost. 7" Scan speak drivers are avaialable from supply houses for around $160-$225 per driver depending on the model. I would expect the manufacturer cost to be about the same.
All good advice to go with the silicone sealant. My dad had a TV repair shop (for all who remember those) and that is basically how he would repair a damaged speaker .. except back then it was contact cement glue (think model airplanes) with some toilet tissue paper. Worked like a charm once it dried.
By the way, the cat was just doing what cats do, which is why I use monitors placed on shelves inside of bookcases. The current two (Buster and Pattie Cat) leave my Opera Platea floorstanders alone since I purchased Felix Scratching Post . They really give this one a work-out, best $65 I have spent.
I have in storage a pair of Dynaco A 50's with Seas drivers. I used a piece of tissue paper with a little adhesive on both sides the driver and it has held for over 14 years and counting. The tissue is very light unlike rubber, etc. You cannot throw the balance of the voice coils off or you will hear rubbing or worse. Bill Legall at Millersound can replace it for you and he does a wonderful job. Google Millersound. Turn down your speaker volume on your computer the sound in the beginning could be loud.
I would probably go with the silicone sealant or buy a bicycle tire patch kit and use the cement that comes with it. I wouldn't add a patch because it may cause the woofer excursion to pull the voice coil to one side and/or change the compliance of the suspension. My cat tried to use the grille-cloth on my Altec's as a scratching post on two occasions. A stern "No!" was all that was necessary. The cat and the speakers remain in excellent health after 4 years of cohabitation.
I'd try a little piece of tire tube patch (or other thin rubber) and rubber cement to seal the area... preferably to the back of the surround. Just pull the driver out to apply. Can't hurt to try it!
You really do need to leap into action and do something about this. I'd suggest maybe something like Asian Barbeque sauce for marinade, then fire up the grill and maybe match your Toasted Tabby with some fava beans and a nice Chianti...
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