Speakers with +/- 3dB adjustment?

[Anton]

I've recently been looking into the use of in-ceiling speakers for the rear surrounds in my 7.1. I've noticed that alot of the various models have a +/-3dB switch for attenuation. I've read the manuals for the various models I'm interested in and the explanation of this feature, they either give no explanation or it differs slightly from one to another.
I'm looking for some light on this subject.

[ThomasW]

Without more info it's impossible to say what they're indicating. It could attenuate the entire speaker or just the treble. So lacking a link to the product specs it's impossible to know.

[Anton]

The speakers in question

Link as requested. About half way done the spec list it has "- 3 dB / 0 dB / + 3 dB" adjustment.

[Chris7]

Your link doesn't point to a specific speaker, but I'm assuming you're referring to the Focal/JMlab in-wall/ceiling speakers. That's an adjustable tweeter lpad. People use those to adjust the high-frequency balance of a speaker. They're more common in studio speakers, because full strength tweeters often sound too strong when flanking a person on a desk or mixing console. Normally you wouldn't need an adjustable tweeter lpad on in-wall speakers, but people often complain about the harshness of Focal/JMlab metal dome tweeters, and shelving it down is one way for people to deal with that. It's a poor way, but on the other hand, there is little space in those kind of speakers for a good quality crossover or an above average quality tweeter.

[Kevin D]

Generally we use it on the in-ceiling speakers based on what the floor is made of. Tweeters firing at granite/tile floors can cause a lot of reflection that needs a slight cut in the high-end. Firing into plush carpet with rugs might need a little boost.

Polk audio also has a mid-bass +/- switch on their higher end line. Putting an in-wall speaker close to an adjacent wall can cause an unwanted boost around 80-100hz that needs taming.

Kevin D.

[Anton]

Thanks Kevin & Chris

People have noted after hearing my JM Lab front end that they sound "a tad bright".....I like a "detailed" sound in the high end (I did buy them after all). With the speakers directed straight at the tiled floor I think a -3dB reduction may be in order.

Thanks for the help!