speaker specs, what do they really mean?

subdude67 · #1 11-23-2011, 01:59 AM

hi, i am planning on building a 2x10 cab and i need speakers for it.

i understand more or less what the power ratings, impedance and frequency range mean but what can i learn from all the other parameters on a spec sheet? what's with sensitivity, Qms, Qts, Qes, Vd, Cms and the lot? is it "the higher the number the better the speaker"?

also, how different would for an example an eminence gamma sound from an eminence delta if in the same cabinet?

or should i not worry too much and just buy a pair of speakers with the right wattage and impedance and go ahead?

thanks for your input

T-Bird · #2 11-23-2011, 03:04 AM

Hi.

You don't ask much, now do you?

There's enough books and papers written about the T/S parameters and their value in cab design to keep You busy for months, but I remember a mention of a "Speaker Theory For Dummies" or something like that being recommended on a similar thread.

In any case, Googling for "Speaker design theory" will yield a lot of reading as well.

I suggest You to find a book of your choice, downloading WinISD (it's free) or eqvivalent, and starting with basic 1 speaker designs uding the drivers that are easy for You to purchase.

Regards
Sam

Mr. Foxen · #3 11-23-2011, 04:41 AM

Make sure you get winISD pro Alpha, and don't assume you want a 2x10 before you understand how speakers work.

wcriley · #4 11-23-2011, 06:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by subdude67

i understand more or less what the power ratings, impedance and frequency range mean but what can i learn from all the other parameters on a spec sheet? what's with sensitivity, Qms, Qts, Qes, Vd, Cms and the lot? is it "the higher the number the better the speaker"?

Understanding Loudspeaker Data | Eminence Speaker

billfitzmaurice · #5 11-23-2011, 07:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by subdude67

hi, i am planning on building a 2x10 cab ...what's with sensitivity, Qms, Qts, Qes, Vd, Cms and the lot?

You're about five years away from having the skills required to design your own cab. In the meantime occupy your time by reading the fEarful threads and get your feet wet building one of those first.