The tweeter is an important component in the sound system, responsible for reproducing sound in the high frequency range, from 2.000Hz to 20.000Hz. 

According to a study by the Audio Engineering Society, tweeters can reproduce sounds in the frequency range of 2kHz to 20kHz, covering most of the frequency range that the human ear can hear. The average sensitivity of a tweeter is usually between 88dB and 92dB (1W/1m), with some high-end models reaching sensitivities of 95dB or higher.

Thanks to its special structure consisting of 5 main parts (speaker membrane, voice coil, magnet, speaker frame and crossover) and the operating principle based on the interaction between electricity and magnetism, the tweeter delivers detailed, sharp and vivid sound, especially when reproducing musical instruments such as violins, flutes and high voices.

Let's analyze in detail the advantages, disadvantages, uses and classification of tweeter speakers on the market, to better understand this important audio device.

What is a Tweeter?

Tweeters are an indispensable part of modern audio systems. Tweeters are responsible for reproducing high-frequency sounds, usually from 2.000 Hz to 20.000 Hz, providing detailed, sharp, and vivid sound. The sounds that tweeters reproduce are often string instruments (such as violins), flutes, and high notes in vocals.

The tweeter helps balance the overall sound, adding detail to the low and mid frequencies from the bass and mid speakers. Especially in symphonic or classical instrumental music, tweeters help listeners distinguish each note clearly. Tweeters can be integrated in home audio systems, stage speakers, and professional karaoke systems.

Structure and operating principle of tweeter

The tweeter is made up of five main components that work on the interaction of electricity and magnetism, helping to reproduce high frequency sounds.

What is the structure of a tweeter?

Tweeters are made up of five main parts: diaphragm, voice coil, magnet, speaker frame and crossover, each part has its own function and affects the final sound quality:

 Diaphragm

The speaker diaphragm is the part that vibrates directly to create sound waves. Speaker diaphragms are made from a variety of materials, such as aluminum, titanium, silk, polymer, and beryllium.

• Aluminum: For bright and crisp sound.
• Silk: Provides a soft and warm sound.
• Beryllium: A light and hard metal, capable of reproducing extremely detailed and accurate sound.

The stiffness and mass of the speaker diaphragm directly affect the sensitivity and frequency response range.

Voice Coil

The voice coil receives the electrical signal from the amplifier and converts it into mechanical vibrations. The coil is usually made of copper, but some high-end tweeters use aluminum or silver to increase sensitivity and reduce weight. The material and size of the coil determine the sensitivity and power handling of the speaker.

Magnet

The magnet creates a stable magnetic field for the voice coil to operate. The strength of the magnetic field affects the performance and sensitivity of the speaker.

Common magnet types include ferrite, neodymium, and alnico. Neodymium has a stronger magnetic field than ferrite, allowing tweeters to achieve high sensitivity and a compact size. 

Speaker frame (Frame/Basket)

The speaker frame has the function of supporting and fixing the other components of the tweeter. The speaker frame is made of metal or plastic, ensuring rigidity and stability. The design of the speaker frame affects resonance and distortion.

Crossover

The crossover divides the audio signal into different frequency bands, ensuring that high-frequency signals are transmitted to the tweeter. The crossover's crossover frequency and slope affect the blend between the tweeter and the other speakers in the system.

Crossovers use electronic components such as capacitors and inductors to filter the signal.

How tweeter works

The operating principle of the tweeter is based on the interaction between electricity and magnetic fields:

1. The audio signal (electrical form) is transmitted to the voice coil.
2. The coil creates a varying magnetic field, which interacts with the fixed magnetic field of the magnet.
3. This interaction creates a push and pull on the coil, causing it to oscillate.
4. The coil, attached to the speaker diaphragm, pushes the surrounding air and creates sound waves in the high frequency range. 

The frequency of the speaker diaphragm's oscillation corresponds to the frequency of the input electrical signal. The amplitude of the speaker diaphragm's oscillation determines the loudness of the sound.

For example, if the input signal has a frequency of 10kHz, the speaker diaphragm will oscillate 10.000 times per second, producing a sound with a frequency of 10kHz.

Outstanding advantages of tweeter

Tweeters have four main advantages: detailed sound reproduction, compact size, high energy efficiency and design diversity.

Detailed and accurate sound reproduction: 

Tweeters are specially designed to reproduce high frequencies (usually 2kHz to 20kHz), providing clear, crisp, and detailed sound. This allows listeners to clearly perceive sounds such as cymbals, hi-hats, or high notes of musical instruments.

According to a study by the Audio Engineering Society, tweeters can reproduce sound in the frequency range of 2kHz to 20kHz, covering most of the frequency range that the human ear can hear. 

Compact and flexible

Tweeters are typically compact in size, with diameters ranging from 19mm to 28mm for the popular dome tweeter. The small size makes tweeters easy to install and integrate into a variety of sound systems, from bookshelf speakers, floorstanding speakers, to in-ceiling speakers. This provides flexibility in sound system layout and saves space.

High sensitivity and energy saving

 Tweeters are typically more sensitive than bass and midrange speakers. The average sensitivity of a tweeter is typically between 88dB and 92dB (1W/1m), with some high-end models reaching sensitivities of 95dB or higher. High sensitivity allows the tweeter to operate efficiently at lower power, saving energy and minimizing distortion.

Variety of designs and materials

There are many different types of tweeters, from dome speakers, horn speakers, to ribbon speakers, each with its own design and diaphragm material, meeting diverse needs and music listening preferences. For example:

• Dome tweeter: Uses a dome-shaped speaker cone, usually made of silk, titanium, or beryllium. Silk dome tweeters produce a soft, warm sound, while titanium and beryllium dome tweeters produce a more detailed and accurate sound.
• Ribbon tweeter: Uses a thin ribbon diaphragm for smooth, natural sound. However, ribbon tweeters are often more expensive and require a high-quality amplifier.
• Horn tweeter: Uses a horn-shaped speaker membrane for powerful and far-reaching sound. Horn tweeters are often used in large stage and hall sound systems.

Disadvantages of tweeters to note

Treble speakers still have 4 main disadvantages: They are easily damaged when operating at high power, the price is quite high, the sound quality depends on the crossover and the speaker's directionality is narrow.

Vulnerable to high power

The diaphragm of a tweeter is usually thin and light, and can be easily damaged if operated at too high a power for a long time. Therefore, you need to choose an amplifier with the right power and avoid operating the speaker at maximum volume for a long time.

According to a study by the Audio Engineering Society, tweeters typically handle a maximum power of about 10W to 50W, depending on design and materials. Exceeding this threshold can cause overheating and burn out the voice coil. 

Higher cost than full range speakers

Some high-end tweeters, such as ribbon tweeters or beryllium tweeters, are quite expensive, ranging from several million to tens of millions of dong. The high price reflects the special technology and manufacturing materials. However, if you do not have high requirements for sound quality, you can choose popular tweeters with more affordable prices, from several hundred thousand to several million dong.

Depends on quality crossover

The tweeter needs to work with a crossover to filter out low frequencies to avoid damaging the speaker. The crossover ensures that the tweeter receives only high frequency signals. Choosing and designing the right crossover is important to ensure optimal performance of the tweeter. A poor quality crossover can reduce the detail and accuracy of the sound.

Narrower directivity than full-range speakers

Some tweeters, especially horn tweeters, have a narrower sound field than full-range speakers. A narrow sound field requires precise speaker placement to achieve the best sound performance. You need to position the tweeter so that the sound is directed directly at the listener to fully enjoy the sound.

According to the Audio Engineering Society, the beam angle of a tweeter is typically between 30 and 90 degrees, while full-range speakers can reach a beam angle of up to 180 degrees. 

Uses of treble speakers in sound systems

Tweeters play an important role in enhancing sound quality and providing a great music experience. With the ability to reproduce detailed high frequencies, expand the sound field, and balance the overall sound, tweeters are an indispensable component in any sound system. 

Enhances sound detail and clarity

The main function of the tweeter is to reproduce high frequencies, usually from 2kHz to 20kHz, where detailed sounds such as:

• Musical instruments: flute, violin, guitar, cymbal, hi-hat, etc.
• Vocal: high notes, vibrato, and distinctive timbre
• Sound effects: wind, rain, birds chirping, etc.

According to a study by the Audio Engineering Society, tweeters can reproduce sounds in the frequency range from 2kHz to 20kHz, covering most of the frequency range that the human ear can hear. This helps listeners clearly perceive detailed sounds, creating a vivid and realistic music experience.

Expands sound field and creates stereo effects

The tweeter contributes to a wider and deeper soundstage, helping listeners feel the position of instruments and singers in the musical space. A wide soundstage provides a more vivid and immersive music listening experience.

For example, in a symphony, the tweeter helps you distinguish the positions of the string groups, wind instruments, and choir, creating a three-dimensional musical space. The wide and deep sound field enhances the stereo effect, giving the feeling of listening to the music live.

According to a study by the Audio Engineering Society, the sonic boom angle of a tweeter is typically between 30 and 90 degrees, depending on the design. A wider sonic boom angle helps to widen the soundstage and create a better stereo effect.

Overall sound balance

The tweeter works with the midrange and woofer to create a balanced and harmonious frequency response. The balance between the frequency ranges creates a natural and realistic sound.

Without a tweeter, the sound will lack brightness, lose detail, and sound “dead”. The high frequency range reproduced by the tweeter complements the midrange and low frequency range of the midrange and woofer, creating a complete sound picture.

According to a survey by Sound & Vision, more than 80% of music listeners believe that the balance between frequency ranges is the most important factor in determining sound quality. Tweeters play a key role in maintaining this balance.

Diverse applications in sound systems

Tweeters are widely used in many different sound systems, including:

• Home audio systems: bookshelf speakers, floorstanding speakers, soundbars, etc.
• Karaoke sound system: professional karaoke speakers, home karaoke speakers, etc.
• Stage sound system: line array speakers, monitor speakers, etc.
• Professional recording studio: monitor speakers, studio speakers, etc.

The versatility of the tweeter allows it to suit a wide range of uses. 

For example, in a home audio system, a tweeter helps reproduce the detailed sound of movies and music; in a karaoke system, a tweeter makes vocals clearer and brighter. The presence of a tweeter enhances the quality of any audio system.

Classification of Treble Speakers on the Market

There are 3 ways to classify tweeters today: manufacturing technology, speaker material and application. Users can easily choose the product that suits their sound system.

Classification By Technology

Currently, there are 3 main technologies for treble speakers: dome treble speakers, ribbon treble speakers and horn treble speakers.

Treble Dome Speaker (Dome Tweeter)

Dome tweeters use a dome-shaped speaker cone, typically made from materials such as silk, aluminum, titanium, or beryllium. The dome shape allows the cone to vibrate efficiently, reproducing smooth, detailed sound in the high frequency range.

• Highlights:
  • Natural Sound: Silk dome speakers deliver soft sound, suitable for light music and classical music.
  • High detail: Metal dome speakers (aluminum, titanium) produce bright and crisp sound, ideal for rock or electronic music.
  • Reasonable price: Dome speakers are popular and affordable, suitable for many users.
• Real life example:
  • Yamaha NS-5000 speakers use beryllium dome speakers, providing detailed and realistic sound.
  • JBL Studio 530 speaker with aluminum dome speaker, reproduces bright and powerful sound.

Treble Ribbon Speaker (Ribbon Tweeter)

Ribbon tweeters use a thin ribbon diaphragm, usually made of aluminum or beryllium-coated aluminum, placed in a strong magnetic field. The ribbon diaphragm is extremely light, allowing for a quick response to the audio signal, reproducing extremely detailed and clear sound.

• Highlights:
  • Detailed Sound: Ribbon speakers are capable of accurate sound reproduction, ideal for professional recording studios.
  • Extended Frequency Range: Some ribbon speakers can reproduce sound up to 50kHz, far beyond the capabilities of dome speakers.
  • High-end design: Ribbon speakers are often used in high-end audio systems.
• Real life example:
  • Elac Debut Reference DBR62 speaker uses ribbon tweeter technology 4, delivering clear and detailed sound.
  • The Adam Audio T7V speaker, popular in studios, uses a ribbon cone for accurate sound reproduction.

Treble Horn Speaker (Horn Tweeter)

Horn tweeters use a horn to amplify the sound from the speaker diaphragm. The horn increases the sensitivity of the speaker, allowing it to operate efficiently at lower power.

• Highlights:
  • Large volume: Horn speakers are suitable for large spaces such as stages and halls.
  • Wide sound coverage: Horn design helps sound spread further.
  • High efficiency: Horn speakers operate efficiently even with low power amplifiers.
• Real life example:
  • Klipsch RP-8000F speakers use horn tweeter technology, delivering powerful and vibrant sound.
  • The Electro-Voice ELX200-12P loudspeaker, ideal for live performances, uses a horn to amplify the sound.

Classification by Speaker Membrane Material

Speaker cones are usually made of three main types: metal, silk, ceramic, and plastic. Each different material will give different sound quality.

Material	Characteristics
Metal Speaker Cone (Aluminum, Titanium, Beryllium)	High stiffness helps the speaker diaphragm maintain a stable shape when vibrating. Bright, detailed sound, suitable for rock music, electronic music. Some high-end speaker cones use beryllium, which delivers extremely accurate sound.
Silk Speaker Cone	Soft, reduces resonance. Warm, natural sound, suitable for light music, classical music. Reasonable price, popular in home audio systems.
Ceramic Speaker Membrane	High durability, good resistance to temperature and humidity. Detailed, precise sound, suitable for high-end sound systems. Higher cost than silk or metal speaker cones.
Polymer Speaker Membrane (Plastic, Composite)	Light weight, high durability. Balanced sound, suitable for many music genres. Affordable, popular in mainstream audio systems.

Classification By Application

Depending on the application you have 2 options: separate treble or integrated treble to suit your needs:

• Separate Treble Speaker: Suitable for upgrading or replacing in old speaker systems. For example: JBL or Pioneer separate tweeter.
• Built-in Treble Speaker: Built-in in full-range or bookshelf speakers, providing convenience. For example: KEF LS50 Meta bookshelf speakers.

Frequently asked questions

1. How to use tweeters effectively and properly?

To use tweeters effectively, you need to ensure that the speakers operate within the manufacturer's recommended power range (e.g. 20W - 50W RMS) and avoid turning the volume up to maximum levels for long periods of time. Use a crossover to filter out low-frequency signals, preventing damage to the speaker cone. Place the speakers at ear level to optimize sound directionality.

2. How to preserve tweeters to prolong their life?

The tweeter should be stored in a dry environment, with humidity below 70% and away from direct sunlight or temperatures above 40°C. Clean the speaker cone periodically with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. Also, check the connecting wires to ensure they are not loose or rusted.

3. When buying a tweeter, what factors should be considered?

When buying a tweeter, you should consider important specifications such as frequency range (2kHz – 20kHz or more), sensitivity (over 90dB to save energy), and load capacity (suitable for the amplifier you are using). In addition, you should listen to the speaker to check the sound quality and ensure the product is suitable for the space and purpose of use.

4. How to match treble speakers with amplifiers properly?

To match the treble speaker with the amplifier properly, you need to check the RMS power of the amplifier, making sure it is within the load capacity range of the treble speaker. For example, if the treble speaker can handle a maximum load of 50W, the amplifier should have a capacity of 30W - 50W RMS to avoid damaging the speaker.

5. How to check the quality of the tweeter before buying?

When testing your tweeters, listen to music that has a lot of high-frequency detail (like cymbals or flutes). Check for clarity and sharpness. Also, look for dents or damage to the speaker cones, and check the connections to make sure they are working properly.

6. What are common treble speaker errors and how to fix them?

Common faults include a buzzing sound, a torn speaker cone, or a burned-out coil. To fix this, check the crossover and amplifier for clipping. If the speaker cone is torn, it will need to be replaced with a new one from the manufacturer.

7. Which treble speaker is suitable for home karaoke system?

For home karaoke systems, you should choose a treble speaker with high sensitivity (over 92dB) and a load capacity of 30W - 50W RMS to ensure clear and bright vocals. JBL speaker line or Bose is a popular choice thanks to its consistent sound quality and durability.

8. Where to buy quality, genuine tweeters at a good price?

Phuc Truong Audio is a reliable address specializing in providing audio equipment (loa, amplifier, microphone..), karaoke system, sound system… including high quality tweeters.

Outstanding advantages:

• Genuine products: Committed to providing treble speakers from reputable brands
• Competitive price: Ensure reasonable price, suitable for many customer segments.
• Professional service: Enthusiastic consultation, technical support and thoughtful warranty.
• Product diversity: Provides many types of treble speakers suitable for home karaoke systems, stages, or professional needs.

Phuc Truong Audio is the ideal choice if you are looking for quality treble speakers with good service!