does sensitivity effect the musical nature of a speaker? Well music isn't a constant volume is it. It changes volume extremely quickly from no sound at all to sometimes very loud. These changes greatly effect the amplifier used to drive the speakers, so a highly efficient speaker puts much less demand on the amplifier. Which helps it sound better, less strained, less distorted.
Speaker sensitivity?
What role does peaker sensitivity play in the musical nature of a speaker. I understand the power issue. But, this is the first time i have ever thought to ask about this aspect. My general understanding is that it doesnt neccessarily afect this but is more related to speaker cabinet and crossover construction. Please explain!!
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To a large extent there is no direct relationship. Some of the better speakers have low sensitivity and therefore require high power, high current amplifiers. When properly driven these speakers sound super. OTOH, many high sensitivity speakers have low mass driver elements. Less mass, less inertia -- the speaker cone should be able to respond more quickly to the music signal. Speakers designed along this principal can also sound super. My personal opinion is that it should be cheaper to design a high sensitivity speaker than a high powered amplifier. Regardless, either path works. |
Some of the best speakers on the planet are very high sensativity; such as the Wilson WAMM, Cello's biggest, and the B&W800's, to mention a few. When these are couples with super powerful great amps, the sound is amazing. Remember, doubling power increases volume by only 3 db. So, to match say a 600 watt amp into a 93db/watt speaker senstivity, one will need 2400 watts for an 87db/watt speaker. Just remember that if you choose a low sensative speaker. |
mejames986 posts05-15-2001 3:26amdoes sensitivity effect the musical nature of a speaker? Well music isn't a constant volume is it. It changes volume extremely quickly from no sound at all to sometimes very loud. These changes greatly effect the amplifier used to drive the speakers, so a highly efficient speaker puts much less demand on the amplifier. Which helps it sound better, less strained, less distorted. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Indeed!!! Can;t argue with that my friends, wow wayyy back in 2001 we had access to this knowledge And we all missed it, We are as slow as slugs. man Audiogon is a veritable GOLD mine for understanding all things sensitivty/full range, wide band. Its all there, like hiddem jems. Audiogon, worlds best audiophile forum. |
also sound super. My personal opinion is that it should be cheaper to design a high sensitivity speaker than a high powered amplifier. Regardless, either path works.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Indeed!!! I can put together a wide band driver ina DIY cabinet for under $2500, world class speaker, 2nd to few. Light weight, easy to build, no xovers needed. Win Win Win |