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Super Simple theory on speaker cables

Let's call this ESST for "Erik's super simple theory" of speaker cables and how they actually work.

As you may know, I've been involved in the DIY speaker building hobby for a while, and ages ago got to sit in on a class at Georgia Tech.

Since then I have noticed a weird effect. A slight change in impedance in the 100 Hz to 1kHz range Say, between 3.5 Ohms and 3 can cause a noticeable and unexpected change. In one case, I worked on a Focal which had a really wonky crossover. After analysis, it seemed it was deliberately trying to lower the impedance in the bottom of this range. Lots of resistors that did not need to be there.

So, here is what I think is going on:

Speakers and amplifiers are much more sensitive to impedance changes than we think they are. Yes, of course this should be covered in damping factor and amplifier output impedance, but what if it isn't? What if either the ear is more sensitive, or if there's something else in amps that makes them perform worse than their damping factor?

If this hypothesis is right, then speaker cables need add just a little inductance or capacitance to make a difference.

No quantum, wave theory or skin effect needs to be involved.
erik_squires
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erik_squires OP
16,058 posts
 
@kosst_amojan


You are referring to using a lower driver impedance. When you do that you gain sensitivity at the cost of efficiency. The lower driver impedance causes more current to flow through the coil and act against the magnet.


That is unfortunately not what I was talking about in this particular crossover. This is an impedance miss-correction circuit which lowered impedance without gaining efficiency or sensitivity. There is no increase current flow in the driver. Only via the resistors. So it is wasted heat.


Often, impedance correction circuits are used to flatten out the impedance making them a more consistent load for tube amps. Keeping the impedance between 6 and 8 ohms for instance. That can really help tubes perform.


As I mentioned, I thoroughly analyzed the drivers individually for impedance and amplitude. I produced an alternative crossover which raised the impedance curve significantly without altering the frequency response, and improving efficiency.

Best,

E
rocknss
130 posts
 
erik_squires
What I'm talking about are how simulations miss how changes to the impedance curve alters the sound, even when the simulation says it does not.

You would need to include some model of the amplifier in your simulation to possibly see this.

Also, don't know on your specific example, there may be some rational to there design choice. Some issues that were displayed during bench testing. Possibly reducing variation over component tolerances, have you tried running a Monte Carlo analysis utilizing the component tolerances?
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