Matching Replacement Woofers


Here's a question that will betray my complete ignorance of physics, electricity and quite possibly everything else that matters in the world.

I recently purchased a pair of speakers, only to find one has a blown woofer. Unfortunately, the speaker company is out of business, so a replacement is not available. I would like to replace the woofer, and assume it would be best to replace its mate in the other speaker as well, so the two speakers will sound similar. However, assuming - and this is where my stupidity shows up - that in any speaker system the sensitivity of the woofer must be matched with the other drivers (midrange, tweeter) so they have a cohesive sound, how can I know whether a replacement woofer will have a similar enough dynamic output to the woofer its replacing to pair well with the other drivers? If that question makes sense to anyone but me, I'd appreciate hearing how best to select replacement woofers for consistency in tone (a pipedream, I'm sure!) and most importantly, dynamic output. Also, in terms of frequency range, is there a significant difference between good quality bass drivers of the same dimension, or is frequency range more a function of cabinet design? Thanks much!
balthus

Showing 2 responses by gregm

Alternatively, check out the manufacturer of yr spkrs woofer, and go to Madisound dot com, and ask for a suitable replacement. Madisound is a well stocked e-shop and has a forum where spkrs designers lurk.
Would the specs of the existing good woofer be printed on the back of the driver?
Probably not. Its ref number might be.
Please note that there are very few companies that make their own drivers; especially small companies.
If the company still exists, by all means access their d-base, or ask, for the driver specs. These are necessary to find a suitably matching product in the market.
Failing that, you have to get the driver measured -- not simple. You might as well mention the spkrs name & model, maybe someone else has already been there, done that!