Exploring Common DIY Terminology - Resonance

Resonance

Resonance refers to a phenomenon where an object or system vibrates with a significantly increased amplitude at a specific frequency when exposed to an external force or energy. This frequency at which the object or system vibrates most strongly is known as the resonant frequency. In loudspeakers, resonances can occur in various components and aspects of the system:

• Diaphragm Resonance: The diaphragm of a loudspeaker driver (cone or dome) can have natural resonances due to its mechanical properties. When driven by the voice coil, the diaphragm can vibrate at its resonant frequency with increased amplitude. Diaphragm resonances can cause distortion and affect the driver's frequency response.
• Enclosure Resonance: The loudspeaker enclosure can also have its own resonant frequencies, which are influenced by its shape, size, and construction materials. Enclosure resonances can cause unwanted vibrations and coloration of the sound.
• Port Resonance: If a loudspeaker system has a ported or vented enclosure, the port can exhibit resonant behavior at certain frequencies. Port resonance can affect the bass response and lead to port noise or chuffing.
• Cavity Resonance: In some loudspeaker designs, internal cavities or air spaces within the enclosure can resonate, causing unwanted artifacts in the sound.
• Baffle Resonance: The baffle, which is the front surface of the loudspeaker, can also have resonant frequencies due to its shape and material composition.

Controlling resonances is crucial in loudspeaker design to achieve accurate and linear sound reproduction. Excessive resonances can lead to peaks and dips in the frequency response, distortion, and other sonic irregularities. Loudspeaker designers employ various techniques to dampen or shift resonant frequencies away from critical areas of the audio spectrum. These techniques may include adding damping materials, bracing, strategic baffle design, and careful selection of driver materials.



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