| Term |
Definition |
| Amplifier Power |
The subwoofer amplifier's continuous (RMS) output in watts. The greater the RMS output, the cleaner and louder the sub will play.
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| Bi-amp Inputs |
Bi-amping means that instead of driving a speaker full-range with a single channel of amplification through a single set of speaker cables, you actually connect two sets of cables, with each set carrying the signal from a separate amplifier (or amp channel). This way, low frequencies and high frequencies each receive dedicated amplification.
Bi-wiring involves connecting two sets of cables to your speakers, like bi-amping, but both sets of cables connect to the same set of output connectors on your receiver or amplifier. Bi-wiring doesn't deliver more wattage to your speakers, so it doesn't offer as dramatic a sonic improvement as bi-amping. Still, many audiophiles find that it offers subtle improvements in imaging and detail. ( Back )
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| Built-in Powered Sub |
Loudspeakers that include subwoofer amps and subwoofer drivers within the main cabinets.
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| Color |
The predominant color of the speaker enclosures.
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| Connector Type |
There are two basic types of connectors: spring clips and binding posts.
Spring clip terminals are usually found on lower-priced speakers, and low- to medium-priced receivers. They work best with bare wire connections with small-gauge speaker wire, or pin-type connectors. Binding post terminals are a sturdier, more versatile type of speaker jack, often found on higher-quality speakers and receivers, and on most amplifiers. They're threaded, so you can tighten them down against the wire or connector for an extra-snug connection.
A common variety of binding post, especially for speakers, is known as a "5-way" binding post. This type can accept bare wire, or any of the typical speaker wire connectors. ( Back )
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| Depth (inches) |
The overall depth of the loudspeaker with the grille in place, measured at the place with the greatest depth. ( Back )
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| Enclosure |
The cabinet that holds the speaker drivers. There are several types, each with its own sound characteristics:.
An acoustic suspension enclosure is a sealed box that provides accurate, tight bass response, though it may sacrifice some efficiency and /or overall volume to achieve this.
A bass reflex enclosure includes a "tuned" port that releases some of the energy produced by the woofer's backward movement. This design increases bass response, though it may sacrifice some accuracy in exchange for the added output.
A passive radiator is a type of woofer cone found on some enclosures which isn't driven by the speaker's magnetic motor, but rather moves in response to the main woofer, increasing bass output.
An in-wall or in-ceiling speaker uses the space behind your wall or ceiling as a large cabinet, so it has the ability to produce slightly more bass than some standalone speakers of the same size. ( Back )
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| Finish |
The type of material used on the exterior surface of the cabinet.
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| Frequency Response |
The human ear responds to frequencies from approximately 20 to 20,000 cycles-per-second, or Hertz. A speaker's frequency response indicates how much of that range can be accurately reproduced.
One Hz is equal to one cycle per second. Points of reference: low "E" on a bass guitar is 41 Hz; middle "C" on a piano is 262 Hz; cymbals can go out to 15,000 Hz. ( Back )
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| Height (inches) |
The maximum height of the loudspeaker. If the loudspeaker includes accessory carpet spikes or any other sort of base attachment, the additional height is included in this figure. ( Back )
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| Impedance (Ohms) |
The load value (in ohms) that the speakers present to the amplifier - the amount of resistance to the flow of current. Low-impedance speakers (4 ohms or less) can cause problems with receivers or amplifiers which are not designed to deliver large amounts of current. ( Back )
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| Labor Warranty |
The manufacturer's warranty period for labor. ( Back )
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| Midrange size (inches) |
Diameter of the midrange.
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| Mounting Bracket Included |
Lets you mount the speakers to the wall with matching brackets. Note that most brackets do not include hardware to attach the bracket to the wall.
Keyhole means the speaker has a keyhole slot on the back that lets you mount it directly to the wall.
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| Parts Warranty |
The manufacturer's warranty period for parts.
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| Power Range |
The range of input power (in watts RMS per channel) the loudspeaker is designed to handle. Using an amp within this range ensures nominal performance. Using an amp outside of this range can damage the speaker.
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| Recommended Stand Height (inches) |
The size of stands that are recommended for these speakers. Using stands in the recommended height range will place the speakers at the correct height.
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| Sensitivity |
The higher this figure, the louder your speakers will play with a given amount of amplifier power. Sensitivity is usually measured by driving a speaker with one watt of power and measuring the loudness (in decibels) at one meter. ( Back )
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| Tweeter |
Type of tweeter.
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| Video Shielded |
A way of containing a speaker's magnetic energy inside its enclosure. This is usually achieved by placing another speaker magnet back-to-back with the existing one so that the two magnetic fields cancel each other. Shielding may also be achieved by lining the inside of the speaker cabinet with metal.
Video shielding is important for home theater speakers - especially the center channel speaker - because if an unshielded speaker is placed too close to your TV, the magnetic energy can cause picture distortion and even permanently damage the TV's picture tube. ( Back )
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| Width (inches) |
The overall width of the loudspeaker at its widest point. ( Back )
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| Woofer Composition |
Material(s) used in the composition of the woofer.
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| Woofer size (inches) |
The diameter of the woofer.
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| Woofer Surround |
The type of material used for the flexible suspension ring that surrounds the woofer cone.
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