Speakers are an essential component of guitar and bass amplifiers, providing the crucial link between the sound produced by the signal from the amplifier and our ears. The parts of a speaker can vary slightly depending on the specific model, but in general speakers have the same components. Understanding these speaker parts can be key to properly setting up and maintaining your equipment.
The most visible aspect of any speaker is the cone. A typical speaker’s cone will be made of paper pulp and cardboard, although other materials such as plastic or aluminum can also be used. The cone is responsible for creating the vibrations that actually produce sound. The cone is held in place by a voice coil, which is suspended within the speaker’s magnet. The magnet works in tandem with the voice coil to drive the cone, vibrating at different frequencies in response to the amplifier’s electrical signal.
The frame of a speaker is the physical housing that contains all of the other parts. It is usually made of plastic or metal, and the design of the frame will dictate how the speaker is mounted in the amplifier cabinet. Speakers can be mounted in many different ways, from the traditional “stacked†configuration to the modern “flush-mounted†design. Regardless of the mounting method, the frame must provide a secure and stable environment for the speaker cone and magnet.
The dust cap covers the opening of the speaker’s cone, protecting it from dirt and other debris. Most dust caps are made of cloth or paper and sit directly atop the speaker cone. Directly below the dust cap, the spider works to keep the voice coil centered and balanced, regardless of the speaker cone’s movement. Most spiders are made of rubber, although some modern designs use compressed air instead. Without a properly functioning dust cap and spider, a speaker will not be able to accurately reproduce sound.
At the base of the speaker are the terminals, which are used to connect the speaker to the amplifier. The terminals on a guitar or bass speaker are typically labeled “positive†and “negativeâ€, although some models may use different labels. As the name implies, the grille covers the opening of the speaker, protecting it from dust, dirt, and other debris. Most grilles are made of metal or plastic, and some are even customizable, allowing you to add your own unique design.
Speakers are an integral part of a guitar or bass amplifier, and understanding their parts is essential to operating your gear properly. From the voice coil and magnet to the grille and dust cap, each of the components of a speaker work together to deliver the sound from the amplifier to our ears.