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Silly question: how do I know if a speaker is blown?

Discussion in 'Amps and Cabs [BG]' started by superbadj, Jun 29, 2008.

  1. Jun 29, 2008 #1
    superbadj

    superbadj

    Jun 28, 2008
    New to bass guitars and amps.

    Just bought a used Fender Rumble 100.

    It makes a really odd buzzing when playing. Thought it was the Piezo horn. It's not--I disconnected it and the buzzing it still there.

    There are NO visible tears in the speaker itself. But the amp almost seems like it's not as loud as I'd imagine it to be, though it's still relatively loud.

    The seller is looking for the original receipt, so I could try a Fender warranty repair (5yr transferrable warranty). But I wonder if I should just try replacing the speaker itself?

    How much would that run, for a decent 15" speaker? Doesn't have to be top-of-the-line, but needs to be decent.

    HELP?
     
  2. Jun 29, 2008 #2
    JimmyM

    JimmyM Supporting Member

    Apr 11, 2005
    Apopka, FL
    Endorsing: Yamaha, Ampeg, Line 6, EMG
    You know it's blown by pulling the grill and GENTLY pushing on the cone with even pressure around the dustcap, and if you feel a rubbing feeling, the voice coil is shot and it needs reconing.

    As for a replacement, your best bet is to contact Fender and get the same speaker, as a whole lot of variables go into choosing a speaker for a given enclosure. Either that or have it reconed.
     
  3. Jun 29, 2008 #3
    superbadj

    superbadj

    Jun 28, 2008
    Hmmm...ok. Never thought about needing the exact same speaker.

    In guitar amps, at least, "upgrading" speakers is a veritable pasttime. But speakers in a bass amp obviously push a lot more air, so I can see how the enclosure acoustics would be a big part of it.