Three-way speaker system: features, varieties, tips for choosing

Three-way speaker systems are becoming more and more popular in today's market. Music lovers want to listen to music in the highest possible quality, and this is exactly what 3-way audio devices provide. What are the features of such systems and what are the criteria for choosing audio speakers for home listening? We will answer these questions in this article.

Our hearing organs are able to perceive sounds only in a certain range, which lies in the range from 20 to 20,000 Hz. The quality of music is determined by the ability of an audio device to produce sound waves that meet these metrics. The principle of operation of modern broadband acoustics is based on dividing sound into several different frequency ranges, while the 3-way speaker system began to include three different speakers, each of which reproduces the sound of a certain frequency.

It means that such speakers are capable of reproducing strictly defined frequencies, namely low (lying in the range of 20-150 Hz), medium (100-7000 Hz) and high (5000 -20,000 Hz). Strictly speaking, thanks to modern developments, audio equipment manufacturers have managed to significantly improve single-way speaker systems, but their sound quality still cannot be compared with two-way, and even more so with three-way audio devices.

The peculiarity of a three-way speaker system is that the set of its speakers includes a medium frequency (MF) emitter, thanks to which a sense of surround sound is achieved. Such devices have a much better sound quality compared to two-way devices, which consist of only two speakers - low-frequency (LF) and high-frequency (HF). In addition to high sound quality, three-way equipment is more compact than two- and single-way counterparts, therefore it is in great demand among motorists.

Among the shortcomings, mention should be made of the high price of such devices - about twice as high as that of two-way audio systems. Besides, three-way devices must have crossovers - special devices designed to provide a frequency limit for each of the speakers, in other words, special frequency filters.

And one more difficult point - when installing three-way speaker systems, you need to invite a specialist who can correctly configure the device in order to achieve maximum sound consistency - otherwise it will practically not differ in any way from the sound of two-way audio systems.

On the shelves of audio equipment stores, you can find a wide variety of speaker systems that differ from each other in their purpose. These are home, concert, instrumental and other devices that differ in size, body shape, power, sound quality and some other indicators.

Despite the fact that a very wide range of three-way speaker systems is provided on the modern market, not every model has a real quality corresponding to the price. Here are the top 5 most trusted acoustic devices.

This is a coaxial (that is, monolithic, combining three different radiators of low, medium and high frequencies) with a maximum power of 300 W and a size of 16 cm. Its maximum volume is 90 dB, which is enough for a car to fill it with surround sound. The frequency range is 28 - 41,000 Hz. The kit includes two speakers and an installation package. The advantages of this model include its low price, good sounding at low frequencies and high sound quality in general. The disadvantages include the need to purchase an additional amplifier.

Another coaxial system measuring 15x23 cm, with a maximum power of 400 W and a maximum volume of up to 92 dB. It reproduces sound well in the range of 31-35,000 Hz, two speakers are included in the kit. This inexpensive acoustic device has the following advantages: good power when properly tuned, wide bass range, modern cabinet design and a high-quality cone that delivers great bass and improved midrange. Users have noticed cool, clear sound with amazing bass.

Car coaxial acoustic device with a power of up to 210 W and a maximum volume of up to 92 dB. Reproduces the frequency range from 45 to 20,000 Hz. On the positive side: the speakers don't wheeze at high volumes, clear sound at a low price, wide frequency range, powerful sound without any amplifier. Of the minuses, a fragile plastic case can be noted.

Acoustic coaxial system, which differs from the previous two models in limiting loudness up to 94 dB. Users especially note the excellent build quality of this device, its laconic design, crystal sound, deep bass and affordable price. Of the minuses is the lack of tips in the kit.

Size 16 cm. Power - up to 300 watts. The volume is up to 89 dB. Reproducible frequencies 49-31,000 Hz. Positive points: crystal clear sound, rich bass and high frequencies, high-quality sound for its price level, high power of the device, which allows you to do without an additional amplifier. The disadvantages are not very high sensitivity and the lack of tips in the kit.

Before purchasing a three-way speaker system for your home, you need to correctly determine what goals this equipment will fulfill. This could be:

• listening to music;
• home theater device;
• universal speakers for all occasions.

In the first case, you should give preference to a traditional stereo system consisting of a pair of speakers. When watching movies, to get the effect of real presence, it is better to choose a set of several three-way speakers.

Some buyers ask questions about which type of speakers to give preference to - floor standing or bookshelf. In the first case, you purchase a device that provides large-scale sound, which can do without any settings. but bookshelf audio systems guarantee even higher sound quality, plus are sold at more affordable pricese. Another advantage of such devices is their compact size, which is very important for owners of small-sized housing. And a powerful speaker system will not be able to realize all its capabilities in conditions of limited free space.

When buying speakers, you need to choose devices from well-known manufacturers, also pay attention to the indicators of sound power, sensitivity, frequency range and maximum volume of the audio system,as well as the quality of the materials from which it is made. The best material for the case is wood, however, due to its high cost, it is permissible to purchase speakers with an MDF case.

For the features of the 3-way speaker system, see the following video.