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Maximizing Performance from Loudspeaker Ports

There is a current trend in the marketplace for loudspeaker ports to have a more aerodynamic appearance. This may be as much for appearance as for performance reasons. However, the sharp discontinuity at the end of a traditional port does create turbulence at high drive levels as air is drawn into the port. As well, the axial cross-sectional shape of the port can have an influence on the turbulence generated on the air as it exits the port. Ports altered to provide a more aerodynamic shape to minimize turbulence for inlet and exit air streams show performance improvements in efficiency, compression, maximum output and distortion reduction and will be outlined in this paper. The ideal shapes for high velocity inlet and exit air streams are different and the best solution is one that balances both. Additionally, turbulence is actually preferred in matters of cooling the box through heat exchange via the air in the port.

Authors: Salvatti, Alex; Button, Doug; Devantier, Alan
Affiliations: JBL Professional, Northridge, CA ; Infinity Systems, Northfidge, CA(See document for exact affiliation information.)
AES Convention:105 (September 1998) Paper Number:4855 Import into BibTeX
Subject:Loudspeakers

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