Passive Speaker Construction

[MrBluesMan]

Hello

Im looking into building some speakers in the future. I have never done this before and was simply asking if there are any guides or tips on the net that show the process of doing this.

I plan to build the cabinet, and buy the speakers and crossover units. I understand how all the seperate components work and all that, just dont exactly know what power specs I should follow.

If I wanted to build a pair of 200 watt speakers, that include a 3 way crossover, should I spec the bass speaker the highest power rating, and mid and high speakers at a lower power spec? Or should all speakers be spec'ed at 200 watts. I cant imagine the second option would be true because the signal power is split 3 ways.

Also, if I wanted 1 low, 2 mid, and 1 high speaker, could I connect the 2 mid's on the same output from the crossover and connect them in parrallel?

Thanks for the advice

[Resonance]

Hi MrBluesMan

I have to ask why you are choosing to build speakers instead of buying them? To save money or get a better design? Don't assume either is easy to achieve.

The normal practice for rating speakers is to have a high power bass with lower power mid and treble on the assumption that you are using them for music and not some sort of sinewave testing or other specialist application.

It's quite easy to buy the drive units and matching crossovers, but cabinet design can be a bit tricky. It is generally best to avoid standing waves inside the cabinet otherwise certain notes will be emphasised so avoid parallel surfaces. You also have to decide on the type of enclosure, ported, sealed, transmission line, horn etc...

You can connect speakers in parallel, but only if their combined impedance (half that of one assuming they are identical) matches the crossover.

There are a number of specialist speaker design sites on the web and even DIY kits. I suggest you have do a search and some research.

If you are determined to go this route, you can end up with very good speakers, but there are many pitfalls along the way, especially if you are new to this.

Good luck and keep us informed.

Ian.