In the realm of Hi-Fi speakers, good sound often comes down to the details. Phase plugs and waveguides are two construction methods that have been developed to get the most out of sound transducers. These devices influence the dispersion behaviour and the sound reflections. The aim – as so often in loudspeaker construction – is to produce the cleanest possible sound with a linear frequency response. We’ll explain how these two devices work, which were also used to upgrade our new Ultima series.
Phase plugs: clearer sound through more precise radiation
Phase plugs are placed in the middle of the transducer diaphragmOpens in new tab instead of dust caps. The plug is a fixed, mostly metallic element. It is directly connected to the core of the transducer consisting of voice coil and magnet. Essentially, this design variant results in a more precise radiation pattern. This is particularly complex in the mid and high frequency range and susceptible to audible changes in the frequency responseOpens in new tab.
A phase plug primarily minimises sound reflections within the transducer, which in the worst case can lead to cancellation of certain frequencies due to phase shifts between directly radiated and reflected sound waves. Such cancellations can have an audible negative effect on the frequency response in serious cases. Speakers with a dustcap instead of a phase plug are susceptible to early sound reflections due to the cavity between cap and transducer.
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2349,99 €Another positive effect of a phase plug is the improved cooling of the transducer. The heat generated during speaker operation is dissipated from the voice coil by the metallic phase plug. With conventional dust caps, this effect is omitted because they are not made of metal and are not connected to the core of the transducer.
The waveguide – a kind of mini horn
Opens in new tabWaveguides are another design feature of tweeters. Loudspeakers equipped with a waveguide have an attachment that slightly concentrates the radiated sound waves or directs them within the radiating axis. The purpose of this design is to create a frequency response that is as linear as possible and to slightly amplify the sound pressure level. The amplification is achieved by a better coupling to the ambient air – similar to a horn, but significantly attenuated.
The slightly directional dispersion also reduces room reflections. The direct sound at the listening position is more effective. This effect can occur particularly in rooms with longer reverberation times. A further positive effect of the bundled dispersion behaviour of “flat horns” is the minimisation of sound reflections on the housing wall.
Legendary tuning – the update of the Ultima series
Our Ultima 40Opens in new tab has been one of the best loudspeakers in its segment for years. But we didn’t rest on our laurels. Our developers have thoroughly analysed the Ultima again and carefully updated it. Part of the update is a newly developed phase plug for the tweeter. Like its predecessor, the Kevlar mid-range driver uses a phase plug.
▶ The Ultima 40Opens in new tab are floorstanding speakersOpens in new tab featuring a sophisticated 3-way system, offering an all-round solution for music, films and gaming. They deliver outstanding bass performance, thanks in part to their dual-tube bass reflex ports. With high-quality materials, first-class craftsmanship and a new matt finish, they look more than just presentable.
▶ Whilst the Ultima 40 can fill rooms of up to 35 square metres with sound, we have further developed the Ultima 20Opens in new tab for smaller rooms of up to 25 square metres. These compact 2-way speakers are ideal for shelf mounting, use on stands or wall mounting. They feature an improved tweeter with a waveguide within the 2-way system. Like the floorstanding speakers, the Ultima 20 has a matt finish with a high-gloss tweeter and a Kevlar midrange driver with a phase plug.
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The most important facts about phase plugs and waveguides
- A phase plug is placed in the middle of the speaker membrane.
- It prevents sound reflections inside the transducer and also serves for better heat dissipation.
- Waveguides are used to guide or bundle sound in the high-frequency range.
- They also contribute to a harmonious sound image due to their improved radiation characteristics.
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