Speaker break in?

Agree with the above about mechanical break-in for speakers (true of cartridges as well), not just electrical. I have heard this quite clearly when replacing drivers, not only in my hifi speakers, but also in guitar amps. I'm sure the internal cabling and crossover bits break-in too, just like any other electrical component, but the mechanical factor adds yet another dimension that can make the difference even more obvious. New drivers that have not been run in can sound too restricted both dynamically and in power bandwidth, often displaying a spotlit frequency range relative to the whole, and/or excessive texture that smooths out eventually. This usually results in sound that is less transparent, smaller in soundstage, and is edgier and reticent-sounding compared to the fully broken-in version of the same. My assumption has always been that comfortably loud playback levels must speed the break-in process along faster than quiet levels will. BTW, new stringed instruments which produce their sound via a vibrating top soundboard also undergo a lengthy break-in improvement as they are played, following along basically the same lines.

Totem recommends break-in at low to moderate levels. I guess if the surrounds were too stiff you might damage the bond between the surround and woofer frame. Take it easy at first, but it would probably take some real abuse to damage a woofer.

Absolutely! 250-500 hours playing time should do it for virtually any higher-end speaker.

peter jasz.

Warrenh, I was just kidding about the cable break-in. I don't really think anyone could explain it to my satisfaction anyway.

Brand new speakers can change a little over time, but at least the measurable differences between a brand new and broken-in speaker have been found to be smaller than the typical variation between any two of the same model. At the same time, it's well known that people become accustomed to a certain sound as they listen to it, so it's quite likely that you're really just getting used to your new Revels. My advice, Warren, is to not sweat the details of breakin, and just enjoy your new speakers!