Speaker Types Explained

Not all car audio speakers do the same job. Each speaker type is designed to handle a specific frequency range and placement role.

Understanding speaker types helps you build a balanced system, choose proper crossovers, and avoid damage caused by asking the wrong speaker to do the wrong job.

The Main Speaker Categories

• Tweeters
• Midrange speakers
• Midbass speakers
• Full-range speakers
• Subwoofers

Tweeters

Tweeters reproduce high frequencies, typically above 2,000 Hz. They add detail, clarity, and improve soundstage.

Tweeters must always be protected with high-pass filtering. Placement and angle significantly affect sound quality.

Midrange Speakers

Midrange speakers handle critical vocal and instrument frequencies, roughly between 200 Hz and 3,000 Hz.

They play a major role in realism and imaging, especially in sound quality systems.

Midbass Speakers

Midbass speakers reproduce upper-bass and lower-mid frequencies, generally between 60 Hz and 300 Hz.

Midbass performance depends heavily on door installation quality. See Door Treatment & Sound Deadening.

Full-Range Speakers

Full-range speakers attempt to cover a wide frequency range from a single driver. They are common in factory systems and basic aftermarket upgrades.

Tradeoffs include limited bass output and compromised high-frequency detail.

Coaxial vs Component Speakers

Speakers are also categorized by design.

Coaxial speakers combine the tweeter and woofer into one unit, while component speakers separate them for better placement flexibility.

This comparison is covered in Coaxial vs Component Speakers.

Subwoofers (Brief Overview)

Subwoofers handle low-frequency bass and remove strain from door speakers.

See Subwoofer Basics for a full explanation.

Why Crossovers Matter

Crossovers ensure each speaker receives only the frequencies it can handle safely. Without proper crossovers, distortion and damage occur.

Learn more in Crossovers Explained and HPF vs LPF Explained.

Choosing Speaker Types for Your Goal

Speaker selection depends on system goals. This decision is explained in SPL vs SQ vs Daily Builds.

Common Speaker Mistakes

• Running speakers full-range without protection
• Ignoring door treatment
• Mixing mismatched speaker types
• Using power ratings instead of sensitivity