Basic parameters and technical characteristics of computer speakers

Before making a box for a subwoofer, you need to select a dynamic head, for which, in fact, its main physical parameters will be calculated. To select a speaker, you need to know as many of its electromechanical parameters as possible.

The absolute minimum data is:

• Speaker resonant frequency Fs
• Full quality Qts
• Equivalent volume Vas

If you don’t know at least one of these speaker parameters, and you don’t have the opportunity to measure them yourself, you shouldn’t take on this speaker. You most likely won’t be able to do anything worthwhile. Although some manufacturers indicate them on the box, you must understand that they can be averaged.

Basic parameters of car speakers

Measurements of the main characteristics of speakers are carried out according to relevant standards.
Nowadays, the following speaker parameters are usually indicated: 1. Effectively reproduced frequency range. 2. Rated power. 3. Highest short-term power. 4. Sensitivity. 5. Nominal speaker resistance. 6. Resonant radio frequency speaker without acoustic design. 7. Good quality. 8. The most permissible dislocation of the voice coil. Speaker composition

A standard speaker contains three basic components: - a moving system, - a magnetic circuit, - a suspension.

Composition of the magnetic circuit: - magnet, - lower and upper flanges, - core.

The structure and special production technology of all of the above components differ quite significantly. It all depends on the purpose of the speaker head.

How to choose component or coaxial speakers for a car

16 cm speakers for cars
Acoustic systems installed in cars come in two types. Highlight:

1. Coaxial speakers. Their difference lies in the presence of speakers of all frequency ranges. The design is quite simple: the smaller diffuser is securely attached to the larger one, thereby achieving some savings in production. As a result, the sound quality leaves much to be desired, but there will be no problems installing such a system in a car.
2. Component speakers. They are several separate speakers, each of which is designed for a specific frequency range. Thanks to this, good sound quality is achieved, which, as expected, affects the price. The main disadvantage of this system is the complexity of installation.

More often than not, users say that they should choose component speakers for a car, since they are able to give the music “airiness” and “build a stage” by separating sounds of different frequencies and bringing them to different areas of the cabin. When purchasing such a system, you should carefully consider the task of installing and configuring it: if the manipulations are carried out incorrectly, there is a risk of paying a lot and getting little. In particular, during installation it should be taken into account that:

• small speakers that work with high frequencies are located in the dashboard or on the A-pillars. Driver/passenger focus remains. For high-range sounds, 4-5-inch speakers are suitable;
• Speakers designed to reproduce low and mid ranges are recommended to be placed either on a shelf near the rear window or at the bottom of the doors. It is necessary to take into account that the minimum acceptable speaker size for full operation with the frequencies in question is 6-6.5 inches.

But there is another opinion. Some drivers prefer to install relatively cheap coaxial speakers in their cars. The main thing is to choose a good manufacturer and perform the setup correctly. Often such a system provides bright and clear sound. You need to be guided by your own preferences and budget - both types of acoustics may be a good option for a particular case.

A person is able to perceive frequencies in the range of 20-20,000 Hz. This range is beyond the control of a pair of speakers, so to set up the highest quality sound, it is recommended to install the following models: high-frequency (4-20000 Hz), mid-frequency (500-5000 Hz), subwoofers (30-100 Hz), midbass (80-1000 Hz).

Frequency response

Frequency response is the range of frequencies that speakers generate. The human ear is considered to be capable of hearing sounds in the range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz and is therefore the standard value for most devices available today. So why offer a wider range if we still don't hear it? Sounds beyond the range of human perception can be sensed and thus the speaker appears to have a deeper sound. It is also worth noting that in the frequency range, the lower limit is responsible for high tones, and the upper limit for low tones.

Which car speakers to choose based on key indicators

Volkswagen Golf Logbook What to do when the speaker wheezes

The main characteristics of car speakers are power, sensitivity, resistance, resonant frequency and overall quality factor. What do you need to know about these options?

First of all, you need to deal with power. It can be of three types:

1. Nominal. This value is the smallest among all, and therefore manufacturers carefully “hide” it, indicating it only directly on the product or in the “official” technical description. It is almost impossible to find the rated power on the label, although it is precisely this that sets the boundaries of the sound.
2. Maximum. Defines the limit of the system's capabilities. The promised value almost never corresponds to reality.
3. Peak. Indicates the power at which the speakers operate for only a very short time. Often used for advertising purposes.

The rated power that you should focus on must be at least equal to the output power of the installed radio. It's better to choose a system with a little more watts. Otherwise, sound loss is inevitable.

In addition, you can increase the volume if you install acoustics with a resistance of 2.5-3.5 ohms. But you will need an adapted amplifier, without which the radio will most likely fail.

Also, the following values ​​are usually presented to the buyer:

• input sensitivity. Often cited as the most important characteristic. The standard recommended value is within 92. If you buy a system with speakers of 84-86, then the music will be almost inaudible, unless the user takes care of additional amplification. You need to remember the optimal balance between power and sensitivity. A weak and sensitive speaker produces the same sound as a more powerful but less sensitive one;
• resonant frequency (Fs). The parameter affects the speakers' ability to reproduce bass: the lower the value, the deeper low frequencies will be available. For example, for midbass you should choose models with 60-75 Fs;
• total quality factor (Qts). A high-quality system demonstrates the highest possible results on this characteristic. It is recommended to choose systems no lower than 0.6 - this is the minimum threshold: anything lower will provide frankly weak sound.

Separately, mention should be made of the degree of reliability of the sensitivity parameter. Ideally, the characteristic is measured at 1 W per meter distance, and this should be indicated in the description of the speaker. Otherwise, doubts arise regarding the correspondence of the meaning to reality. Experienced users do not advise getting too carried away with studying the frequency characteristics of speakers, since the number of hertz is often lied to. It is recommended to take into account the materials used in the manufacture of the system. For diffusers, the best are pressed cardboard or paper, additionally impregnated with a product with a water-repellent effect. It is advisable to choose a soft rubber suspension.

High-quality sound is a mandatory “add-on” for any car, so you should devote enough time to purchasing speakers. If there is frankly little experience in this matter, it is better to consult with specialists.

Power

Perhaps the biggest confusion relates to the power of the speakers. Specifications include rated power, maximum power, effective power, RMS or even PMPO. Each one means something completely different. Only one value is worth considering, and the rest are a marketing ploy by manufacturers:

• RMS power (rms) is the effective or rated power, that is, the power that can be drawn by the speakers from the amplifier while it is operating without being damaged. This is a parameter that we must take into account because it tells us the real power of the speaker;
• Maximum power is the amount of power the speakers can produce in a second. It's definitely higher than RMS power and doesn't make much difference from a power supply standpoint;
• PMPO (Peak Music Output) is the theoretical maximum power that can be produced in just a fraction of a second. In practice, this has absolutely no meaning and is a minor deception from the manufacturers. This is similar to dynamic contrast on a TV.

System Features

Wideband or coaxial acoustics, which is better?

Many people certainly know that there are coaxial and component acoustics. The peculiarity of the first option is that music is played through the same speakers.

Component car speakers reproduce sound a little differently. For this purpose, different speakers are used, which are responsible for different frequencies.

Naturally, this option is more expensive, in addition, it is important to understand how to correctly place component speakers in the vehicle interior so that their sound is ideal

The installation issue can always be resolved by contacting specialized services, where specialists, of course, for a certain fee, will install all components at a high professional level. But how can you really buy the best component audio in your car? It is recommended to choose based on reviews from car enthusiasts who have already tried similar systems in their own vehicles.

What is the AC for?

Using speakers, you can enhance or improve the sound, and speakers are the last link in the audio system. They have found application in various fields:

1. Massive, for listening and karaoke.
2. Hi-Fi and High-End classes for audiophiles and music lovers.
3. Home cinema.
4. For computer and laptop.
5. To enhance the microphone.
6. Concert performances are combined with musical instruments.
7. Studio.
8. Automotive.
9. For background sound.
10. For individual listening (stereo headphones).
11. Portable speaker system for outdoor recreation.

What are the best car speakers to choose in 2022 speaker 16 cm

Given the large selection, we will not compare different acoustics on sale. We will focus only on the most popular options. In other words, next we will consider the best 16 cm speakers for the car.

At the same time, new products are released every year, companies constantly compete with each other and introduce innovations. As of the last months of 2022 and the beginning of 2022, car enthusiasts, thanks to their reviews, have compiled a rating of “the best speakers for a car with a diameter of 16 cm.”

Among the best solutions, according to reviews, is the Pioneer TS-A1733I. This is a three-way system. Sound over a wide frequency range. The acoustics have a multilayer diffuser, the maximum power is 300 W, while the nominal power is 50 W. The acoustics are perfect for both passenger cars and minibuses. JBL GX602 is also in demand on the market. This is a 16 cm two-way coaxial car speaker. Rated power is 60 W. The Ural AS-C1647 speakers are budget, but they have high sensitivity and play well even from the built-in amplifier of the car radio. Among the more expensive speakers included in the rating of the best 16 cm speaker models, we can highlight the AUDISON PRIMA APK 165. As practice shows, this solution is a good 16 cm speaker

Component acoustics, rated power 100 W. Also, car audio lovers pay attention to CHALENGER PWR 16.2. The rated power is 100 W, the speakers are bassy and play the lows well. The KISKER CS674 speakers are a two-way coaxial system with deep bass, detailed mids and crisp highs.

You can also pay attention to ALPINE SPG-17CS

The speakers produce clear and high-quality sound throughout the entire range, and the price is quite affordable. They sound optimally with an external amplifier, but low frequencies are not enough for some car owners.

The HERTZ TSK 165L.5 acoustics, on the contrary, are distinguished by deep bass, while the HERTZ TSK 165L.5 speakers also attract attention with their design. You can also note the JBL GT5 652. This is a budget coaxial car speaker, and the sound is clear and well balanced. These speakers have a rubber suspension and can also be installed in doors. The ranking of the best 16 cm speakers is completed by the PIONEER TS-G1731i. Such speakers at an affordable price have a pleasant appearance and sound good. They are distinguished by a “soft” midrange; in combination with a high-quality external amplifier, the speakers are not inferior in sound quality to more expensive analogues.

Types of Car Speakers

Car speakers are considered an important component of any audio system. What types of speakers are there? There are specific types and parameters of speakers. Nowadays, manufacturers use standardized types and sizes: 10 centimeters, 13, 16 and 20, and only then subwoofers.

It is because of this that when purchasing speakers, you first of all need to think about what parameters of the speaker are acceptable in your car in a regular place.

This is essential for you if you do not want to re-equip a standard place in the car, but want to improve the sound of your car with the least effort

To install the speaker in the appropriate place, it is very important to know the dimensions of the model you have chosen, since speakers come in different sizes depending on the relevant parameters

Many product manufacturers now use very specific speakers. They are also called slim structures. Custom manufacturers are also keeping up and producing slim speakers that fit virtually any car.

All speakers are divided into 3 most important types: wideband, coaxial and, of course, component. Let's take a closer look at each of these types.

Broadband type

This type is a car speaker for sound reproduction of a wide frequency range. One of the advantages of this type of speakers is the low cost and practicality of use for car enthusiasts who do not need high playback quality. Some of them are eaten due to the large breadth of frequencies that are reproduced. Therefore, only the mid-radio frequency range sounds great.

Coaxial type

Although coaxial speakers are more expensive, they have additional advantages over the previous type. A coaxial speaker includes two nozzles, a tweeter and a woofer, which are in a single line. As standard, a tweeter is placed above the woofer.

The exclusivity of such a device provides a significant increase in quality sound properties due to the tactful sound reproduction, covering not only high, but also low-frequency sounds. This promotes settling in the mid-frequency range. This is also considered to be a disadvantage of the coaxial type of car speakers.

To improve it, they began to produce an improved type of coaxial, consisting of 3 speakers, since another one is added to the high- and mid-frequency speakers to reproduce a range of mid-frequency sounds. Thanks to this procedure, the fiasco of moderate radio frequencies is eliminated and the highest quality of reproduction of speakers of the above-mentioned type is guaranteed.

Component type

The amazing component type of speakers has rightfully captured the palm in the field of sound. They are the most expensive because different speakers are used for different frequency ranges.

To classify aggregate sound into radio frequency ranges, unpowered crossovers are used. The most recognized types of component-type speakers consist of subwoofers, mid-range speakers and high-frequency radio speakers (they are also called tweeters).

The main preference of the component type of speakers is ease of installation, because any speaker from the audio system can be installed independently of each other.

DIY speaker system

It’s no secret that “branded” equipment is expensive, so why not make a device for playing sound yourself. Components can be ordered in online stores. The choice of materials for the housing, the number of parts and components depends on what speakers are needed. Case options: chipboard, MDF material, plywood, laminate, more exotic ones from an old car radio, PVC pipes, paper. To make it you will need tools: pliers, a set of screwdrivers, a hacksaw (for wood), a file, a chisel, a hand drill and a set of drills.

Manufacturing steps:

1. According to the drawing, the walls of the future building are marked on prepared sheets (chipboard, plywood, MDF).
2. The details are cut out.
3. The walls are held together with glue or screws.
4. To seal the body, the cracks at the junction of the walls are filled with felt impregnated with glue. If the back panel is removable, stick a seal (polymer or rubber).
5. If the system is closed, damping material (cotton wool or foam rubber) is placed inside the column.
6. The length of the bass reflex is selected experimentally.
7. The amplifier and power supply are attached to the finished case and then connected to each other.
8. Speakers are placed. If there is one speaker, it is connected to one of the amplifier outputs, if there is a second one, it is connected to the second channel of the amplifier.
9. Holes are drilled on the back wall and connectors are connected to the amplifier input and to the power supply input.
10. All solder joints are insulated.
11. If there are several speakers, a crossover filter is connected so that they play in their own frequency band.

Component car audio

Alpine X-S65C – for high quality audio

A powerful speaker with a rating of 120 W operates in a very wide frequency range of 55-40000 Hz. The system “sings” expressively, producing detailed sound at the level of expensive home acoustics.

Accordingly, it is designed for listening to the highest quality Hi-Res audio, which is greatly facilitated by speakers made of modern and technologically advanced materials such as carbon fiber and nanofiber.

Pros:

• Powerful yet very clear sound.
• The cone cone on the midbass is made of rigid and lightweight nanofiber, which ensures stability of the frequency response and reduces distortion to a minimum.
• Neodymium magnets were used in the manufacture of the speakers - as a result, the manufacturer managed to reduce the seating depth, but maintain the required power.
• Cast aluminum baskets of midrange drivers are rigid, strong and durable.
• On a complete crossover, you can not only change the level of the highs, but also instantly switch the polarity of the tweeters when setting up an already installed system.

Minuses:

• Tweeters are intended only for outdoor installation, and to obtain a “diffused” sound they require precise selection of direction.
• There is a noticeable lack of bass - you will have to buy a subwoofer separately.
• The price is about 30 thousand rubles, although you can pay that for such quality.

Airtone S6.5 Comp – a good two-component budget

This inexpensive but very worthy set of acoustics pleasantly surprises with the manufacturer’s serious approach to workmanship. Here, the speakers use silk and impregnated cellulose compacts, which provide beautiful sound in any composition.

The kit itself includes a 6.5-inch midbass with a frequency response from 65 to 5000 Hz, as well as a crossover and a tweeter with a diameter of 25 mm - all in pairs.

Pros:

• The system is moderately bassy - if you don’t listen to rock or jazz, you can even do without buying a subwoofer.
• The speakers work cleanly, without extraneous noise, even at maximum volume.
• Polyurethane foam suspensions on diffusers are clearly a low-budget solution, thanks to which the bass sounds more velvety and the speakers do not dull in winter.
• The passcrosses provide the ability to switch the HF level control: boost or cut by 3 dB, or leave it in the neutral position.
• High-frequency tweeters can be embedded into the surface or left outside - housings for external installation are included.
• Neat assembly and at the same time a very affordable price - only 2800 rubles for the entire set.

Minuses:

• Low power of 50 W and not the most impressive sensitivity (91 dB) - lovers of loud music will miss all this.
• The supply wires on the midwoofers are a bit short and are stretched during installation. The problem is partially solved by bending the terminal plate.

Hertz MPK 165.3 PRO – for bass lovers

The two-way system with 6-inch speakers covers the range of 40-22500 Hz. Moreover, in this generation, the manufacturer did a good job with HF tweeters, eliminating their main problem - the dry “sandy” sound that was present in earlier models.

He also managed to get deep, dense bass from the main speakers. So if you like “meat” in music, but don’t want to install a subwoofer, this speaker will cope quite well without one.

Pros:

• Perfectly balanced sound at all frequencies.
• Mid-bass speakers are installed in non-resonating cast baskets.
• Conical cellulose diffusers have a large radiating area and produce a beautiful, open sound in the midrange.
• Rated power 110 W.
• A sensitivity of 92 dB will allow you to easily do without an additional amplifier.
• Two levels of tweeter adjustment via crossover – 0 and +2 dB.
• Adequate price 18-19 thousand rubles.

Minuses:

The system requires proper installation with noise and vibration insulation of the mounting surface, otherwise you won’t get good sound from it.

Selecting and mounting speakers

installing speakers
So, the following rules to follow:

The speaker suspension must be made of rubber, as it will provide maximum shock absorption and better sound quality.

In front, spaced-out acoustics will sound best, that is, a system that is installed with separate tweeters.

For more surround sound, speakers should be installed in the rear of the car, the diameter of which reaches 17-20 centimeters. Such speakers will provide spacious, powerful sound in all ranges.

The mount for the speakers should be very rigid, since with a powerful sound they can unwind and start to rattle, or the mount will become loose and again there will be extra noise that will ruin everything.

It is best to make a special podium for the front speakers; this will allow you to achieve even greater quality and volume, but this action is not necessary if you do not want to make major design changes to the interior.

Coaxial sound system.

This type of acoustics includes several speakers of different frequencies, enclosed in a combination. This sound system has a simpler design and a relatively affordable price. The coaxial system has a fairly simple installation technology, but is characterized by high sound characteristics. If the component system is designed for a professional, then every car enthusiast can handle the installation of a coaxial sound system. The low price is explained by a fairly simple design and simple separation filters. The price-quality ratio of this type of sound system makes it very common among modern car enthusiasts. For a relatively low price, the vehicle owner receives very high-quality sound and simple installation.

Coaxial acoustics

An important part of any speaker system is the head unit. The sound quality inside the vehicle also largely depends on the radio.

In this case, there is no need to purchase a high-quality head unit if the speakers are of poor quality. But, in order to justify the quality of expensive speakers installed in the cabin, you need to connect them to a powerful radio. When using a professional component audio system, most car enthusiasts connect an external amplifier. This device allows you to combine several sound systems together and achieve maximum sound power.

When choosing a head unit or external amplifier, you need to pay attention to the technical characteristics of the audio equipment. To fully answer the question - what kind of acoustics is best to put in a car, it is worth keeping in mind the two most important factors

The first thing you need to understand when choosing a sound system is its role in the vehicle. If music plays constantly in the car interior, but not too loudly, you shouldn’t overpay for an expensive sound system. In this case, a coaxial system will fully meet your needs. In addition, this type of sound equipment can be easily installed with your own hands. The second factor when choosing audio equipment is the budget allocated for acoustics. If the budget is quite limited and does not allow you to purchase a complete set of high-quality equipment, it is better to also install coaxial speakers in the car

To fully answer the question - which acoustics is best to put in a car, it is worth keeping in mind the two most important factors. The first thing you need to understand when choosing a sound system is its role in the vehicle. If music plays constantly in the car interior, but not too loudly, you shouldn’t overpay for an expensive sound system. In this case, a coaxial system will fully meet your needs. In addition, this type of sound equipment can be easily installed with your own hands. The second factor when choosing audio equipment is the budget allocated for acoustics. If the budget is quite limited and does not allow you to purchase a complete set of high-quality equipment, it is better to also install coaxial speakers in the car.

Acoustic system

Buying a good radio will not pay off if you only have factory speakers. It is quite difficult to say unambiguously what equipment to put in the car. In this case, the choice is determined by the preferences of a particular car enthusiast.

To obtain a complete sound picture, it is important that the characteristics of all components match each other.

It is important to note that when choosing audio equipment of any class, it is important to give preference to proven and reputable manufacturers. Practice shows that it is better to purchase equipment with less functionality, but from global manufacturers of automotive equipment, than to buy an affordable device with ample capabilities, of questionable production

https://youtube.com/watch?v=G4MKc3oCZAg%3F

By paying due attention to the main stages of selecting sound equipment for your car and correctly installing the speakers, you will definitely achieve the desired results. For better sound quality, it is better to soundproof the most vulnerable parts of the cabin

Good luck with your choice!

Impedance

Another parameter that appears in the specification of each speaker is impedance. Although this term sounds complicated, in practice it is extremely simple. It tells us how much resistance the speaker coil has. In practice, it all comes down to the fact that the amplifier must produce the same impedance as the speakers. It is acceptable to use speakers with an impedance higher than that of the amplifier, but the opposite is not allowed. Impedance does not affect sound quality.

TOP 10 audio systems

We bring to your attention a list of the best, in our opinion, speaker systems. Note that “best” does not mean “loudest”, since too loud sound can damage your hearing. It is also contrary to established noise regulations. Some of the systems presented are available as standard in some car models, while others must be purchased separately.

Bose Media System

(available in Ferrari 612 Scaglietti)

It is believed that in sports cars, engine noise drowns out the sound of the acoustics. However, the system we are considering cannot be silenced. It is distinguished by exceptionally high-quality sound, which it provides in the cabin.

Bose Media System in a Ferrari

Boston Acoustics

(available in Chrysler 300C)

This 368-watt speaker system delivers great sound in all driving conditions. It is equipped with 7 speakers that have special filters. For full sound, it is equipped with a subwoofer.

Boston Acoustics - great audio system

Rockford Fostage

(available in Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution)

The speaker power is 650 watts. The system is equipped with nine speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer (located in the trunk). It is distinguished by its ability to skillfully process sound. This acoustics is sensitive to changes in speed and can equalize the volume of sound.

Sound system Rockford Fosgate

THX 2

(available in Lincoln MKX)

Very clean audio system. Treats bass in the same way as other sound ranges. Equipped with 14 speakers and has a power of 600 watts.

High-quality audio system for Lincoln car

Dynaudio

(available in Volvo S80)

The audio system uses settings from the famous Danish company Dynaudio. Equipped with 12 speakers. Each of them has its own filter, which makes the sound extremely clear. Acoustic power - 650 watts.

Dynaudio - famous acoustics

Bose 5.1 Cabin

(available in Cadillac CTS)

The speakers are equipped with ten speakers. They provide precise fullness of sound. The sound quality does not change, regardless of the speed of the car.

Bose 5.1 Cabin - sound system installed in the Cadillac CTS

Harman

(available in Mercedes - CL class)

Not everyone can afford a Mercedes car. But you can try to purchase the acoustic system that is installed on such models. It provides surround digital sound. Thanks to precise tuning, 600 watts of power is provided. The system consists of fourteen speakers.

Mercedes car interior with Harman acoustics

Bowers & Wilkins

(available in Jaguar XF)

Acoustic power is about 440 watts. Surround sound from the speakers is provided by 13 speakers and a powerful subwoofer. The product quality is considered very high.

Jaguar XF audio system

Mark Levinson Refrence

(available in Lexus LS)

The system power is 450 watts. Sound distortion rate is less than 0.1%. With a range of 20-20,000 hertz, you won't miss a sound. The system is equipped with a hard drive (8 gigabytes).

Interior of Lexus LS and its acoustics

Sensitivity

This parameter also directly affects the possible volume of sound transmitted by the system. The value is measured in decibels (dB) and indicates the sound pressure generated by the speaker at a power of 2 Watts at a distance of 1 m.

To understand: with the same power of speakers, the one with higher sensitivity will sound louder. 90 dB is considered a good parameter.

Modern acoustic systems for mass use are produced with sensitivity from 80 to 120 dB.