did@ucla-cs.UUCP (02/05/85)
Does anybody out there own a Bennett Sound Corporation (BSC) Compusound
100 speaker system (~$2000 speakers+subwoofers)? I went to audition a
pair, brought my 1812 Overture CD, played it at > concert volume, and
blew one of the subwoofer drivers at the fourth or fifth cannon shot.
My main question is:
Is this reasonable behaviour from a high-end speaker system in
general?
What are your experiences with speaker blowouts?
I'll bet you're saying "Gee, this guy's a jerk for playing THAT so loud",
but the salesman assured me that the speakers could handle it....
Enlightenment greatly appreciated, Dave
Arpa: did@UCLA-LOCUS.ARPA
Uucp: {ucbvax || ihnp4 || randvax || sdcrdcf || trwspp || ism780} !ucla-cs!didgps@ariel.UUCP (GLENN SCHWARTZ) (02/21/85)
A speakers power handling capability is directly related to its efficiency, or in this case, the overall efficiency of the systems parts (i.e. drivers, crossover, cabinet, acoustic damping, etc.). When buying , make sure that the amplifier has sufficient power to drive the system. If there is insufficient power the amplifier will "clip" the top of the signals sinewave causing distortion. It is this distortion that will damage the speakers voice coil and "blow" it, much like the filament in a lightbulb. Sufficient power will help to prevent this condition, so make sure that the components are better matched (speakers and amp) . The salesman may also have over driven the system with clean (undistorted) power and in either case I would suggest that you shop elsewhere or become more educated. When checking around for speakers of this quality look for good imaging. In other words, if you can tell where the music is coming from (the speaker box) then you are not benefitting from speakers of this quality.