Speakers, loudness, and electrical input

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between electrical input and loudness output in speakers, exploring the theoretical framework and practical implications of this relationship. Participants examine concepts of efficiency, measurement standards, and the applicability of certain theories from motors to speakers.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether the relationship x=electricity and y=loudness can be treated similarly to motor input/output relationships.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of efficiency, stating that output will never equal input and noting that some motors do not function as generators.
  • A participant mentions that the input to output relationship for speakers is typically defined by manufacturer specifications and varies among different transducers.
  • There is a reference to a standard measurement of sound pressure level at 1 watt and 1 meter, which is influenced by speaker efficiency.
  • One participant suggests that speakers with DC resistance around 80% of nominal impedance tend to have low efficiency in converting electrical to mechanical energy.
  • A suggestion is made to search for "theory of loudspeakers" for further insights.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus; there are competing views regarding the relationship between electrical input and loudness output, particularly concerning the role of efficiency and the applicability of motor theories to speakers.

Contextual Notes

Participants note limitations related to efficiency and the variability of specifications among different speaker models, which may affect the generalizability of claims made in the discussion.

Steven Ellet
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What is the formula for speaker input/output?

On a related topic, on a motor an input of x (electricity) equals output of y (movement) and an input of y (movement) equals output of x (electricity)
x=y and y=x
Is the theory of x=y / y=x applicable to speakers? x=electricity y=loudness
 
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You have forgotten to include efficiency. The output of any device will never be equal to the input. And of course some types of motors will not work as generators. But you have the general idea correct. I don't believe there is any magic formula for speakers. The input to output relationship is usually a manufacturers spec and will vary from one transducer to the next. Loudspeakers are generally not considered very efficient at all.
 
the standard measurement is 1 watt at 1 meter to get the sound pressure level that varies with speaker efficiency.
 
Just a thought -
Speakers having DC resistance around 80% of nominal impedance are condemned to low efficiency as converters of electrical to mechanical energy..

a search on "theory of loudspeakers" should be fruitful.
 

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