Have you ever wondered what happens when you plug the port of a ported speaker? Perhaps you lose some low-end, but does it alter the rest of the frequency response? Can every ported speaker be plugged? These questions by Mr_Christie55 sparked a discussion among audiophiles on Reddit.
Summary
- Plugging the port reduces low-end extension, making low and mid bass tighter.
- Ported speakers may have lower distortion but can produce a bump at the port’s tuned frequency.
- Experimenting with blocking the port can result in various outcomes, from tighter sound to increased distortion.
Impact on Frequency Response
According to WingerRules, plugging the port of a ported speaker reduces low-end extension but results in tighter low and mid bass, creating a more forward sound. This alteration can lead to lower distortion for the same low-end output.
Models and Speaker Design
Narwhal4u shared their experience with B&W 868s and Polk ES10s, showcasing how speaker placements and design features can influence the decision to plug the bass ports. Customizing the sound can be crucial for achieving the desired audio quality.
Tuning and Distortion
MiataN3rd discussed sub amps with a sealed mode setting and the trade-off of ported speakers for lower frequencies. Managing the excursion of the woofer and dealing with bumps at the port’s tuned frequency are considerations for audiophiles tweaking their systems.
Aquacoustic highlighted the impact of cabinet tuning on the woofer’s performance and the role of the port in extending bass response. While experimenting with blocking the port can recover some lost frequencies, it can also lead to increased distortion and amplifier clipping in certain scenarios.
Experimentation and personal preference play a significant role, as rideacat mentioned enjoying the process of testing different methods of blocking the port. Finding the optimal setup for your speakers can involve trial and error to achieve the desired sound quality.