If you’re in the market for new party speakers, it’s important to understand the lingo first. This guide will teach you 100 terms related to party speakers sound that you need to be familiar with before buying new speakers. By understanding these terms, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision and get the perfect set of party speakers for your needs. So let’s get started!
Party Speakers Sound Guide: Technical jargon
When looking for party speakers, you’ll come across a lot of technical jargon. To help you make sense of it all, we’ve put together this quick guide to some of the most important specs.
frequency response in speakers
Frequency response is the range of frequencies that a speaker can reproduce. The human ear can hear sound waves in the range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, so ideally, you’d want party speakers with a frequency response that at least covers this range.
impedance
This is a measure of how much electrical resistance the speaker has. A higher impedance means the speaker will require more power to reach its full volume potential.
Party speakers usually have low impedance so they can work with lower-powered amplifiers.
What is sensitivity?
Sensitivity measures how much power a speaker needs in order to produce a certain level of sound. The higher the sensitivity rating, the less power the speaker will need. Party speakers typically have high sensitivity ratings since they need to be able to fill a large space with sound.
Input Sensitivity
Input sensitivity is a measure of how much voltage is required to produce a certain level of sound output.
power handling
This spec tells you how much power the speaker can handle before it starts to distort. If you’re planning on playing your music at high volumes, you’ll want a speaker with a high-power handling rating.
White Noise
If you’re looking for a speaker to use as part of a PA system, you’ll want to make sure it has a low white noise rating. White noise is a type of static that can be produced by electronic devices, and it can be incredibly distracting if it’s coming from your speakers.
Watt (W)
This is a measure of the power output of the speaker. A higher wattage means the speaker can produce louder sound.
Stereo/ Stereophonic
Stereo/ Stereophonic speakers are speakers that reproduce sound in two channels, giving the illusion of three-dimensional space.
This is achieved by using two speakers, one for the left channel and one for the right channel.
If you’re looking for party speakers that will give you the best possible sound, you’ll want to make sure they’re stereo/ stereophonic speakers.
Resonance
Resonance is the tendency of a material to vibrate at a particular frequency.
Resistance
Resistance is the measure of a material’s opposition to the flow of electrons.
Range
Range is the distance over which a particular signal can be transmitted without loss or degradation.
Passive Speaker
A passive speaker is a speaker that does not have its own amplification and must be connected to an external amplifier.
Active Speaker
An active speaker is a speaker that has its own built-in amplification.
Bass Reflex Speaker
A bass reflex speaker is a type of speaker that uses a port or duct to extend the low-frequency response of the speaker.
tweeter
A tweeter is a type of speaker that reproduces high-frequency sounds.
woofer
A woofer is a type of speaker that reproduces low-frequency sounds.
subwoofer
A subwoofer is a type of woofer that is designed specifically for reproducing low frequencies.
full-range speaker
A full-range speaker is a speaker that can reproduce the entire frequency range of human hearing.
2-way speakers
2-way speakers are speakers that have two drivers, one for the low frequencies and one for the high frequencies.
3-way speakers
3-way speakers are speakers that have three drivers, one for the low frequencies, one for the mid frequencies, and one for the high frequencies.
dispersion pattern
The dispersion pattern is the way in which sound waves radiate from the speaker.
sweet spot
The sweet spot is the area in front of a speaker where the sound is at its best.
component speakers
Component speakers are speakers that come in separate pieces that must be assembled.
radio frequency interference (RFI)
Radio frequency interference (RFI) is electromagnetic interference that can occur when electronic devices are placed too close to each other.
ground loop
A ground loop is a type of electrical noise that can occur when two or more devices are connected together.
signal-to-noise ratio (SNR)
The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is the ratio of the strength of the signal to the level of noise.
total harmonic distortion (THD)
Total harmonic distortion is the measure of the distortion that occurs when an signal is amplified.
receiver
A receiver is a device that combines an amplifier and a tuner.
stereo receiver
A stereo receiver is a type of audio receiver that has two channels and can reproduce stereo sound.
mono amplifier
A mono amplifier is a type of amplifier that has one channel and can only reproduce mono sound.
speakers
Speakers are devices that convert electrical signals into sound.
PA system
A PA system is a type of audio system that is used to amplify sound.
Microprocessor
A microprocessor is a type of computer processor that is used in many electronic devices, including audio equipment.
Digital signal processing (DSP)
Digital signal processing is a type of signal processing that uses digital rather than analog signals.
Jitter
Jitter is a type of distortion that occurs when an audio signal is not reproduced at the correct time.
Overtone
Overtone is another important factor that determines a speaker’s sound quality.
Overtone is a type of distortion that occurs when the speaker reproduces sounds at frequencies above the audible range. This can result in a “muddy” or “tinny” sound.
Operational Amplifier (Op-Amp)
Operational Amplifier (Op-Amp) is an electronic component that is used to amplify electrical signals. It is often used in audio equipment to improve sound quality.
Bessel Filter
Bessel Filter is a type of electronic filter that is used to reduce jitter and improve sound quality.
Midrange Speaker
Midrange Speaker is a type of speaker that reproduces mid-frequency sounds.
Power handling capacity / Peak power handling capacity
Power handling capacity/Peak power handling capacity is the measure of how much power a speaker can handle without being damaged.
Surround Sound
Surround sound is a type of audio that uses multiple speakers to create the illusion of sound coming from all around the listener.
5.1 Surround Sound
5.1 surround sound is a type of surround sound that uses five speakers and one subwoofer.
7.1 Surround Sound
7.1 surround sound is a type of surround sound that uses seven speakers and one subwoofer.
Dolby Digital
Dolby Digital is a type of digital audio that uses compression to reduce the amount of data needed to store and transmit audio signals.
Noise
Noise is another factor that can affect a speaker’s sound quality. Noise is any unwanted sound, such as static, that interferes with the reproduction of sound.
Harmonic distortion
Harmonic distortion is a type of distortion that occurs when the speaker reproduces sounds at frequencies above the audible range. This can result in a “muddy” or “tinny” sound.
Headroom
Headroom is the amount of space between the loudest part of a sound wave and the point where distortion begins.
It is usually measured in decibels (dB).
Graphic Equalizer/EQ
A graphic equalizer is an electronic device that allows the user to adjust the level of each frequency band.
Frequency
Frequency is the number of times per second that a sound wave vibrates.
Frequency Cutoff
Frequency cutoff is the point at which an audio signal starts to be attenuated.
Flat Frequency Response
A flat frequency response is one where all frequencies are reproduced at the same level.
Fletcher-Munson Curve
The Fletcher-Munson curve is a graph that shows how our perception of sound changes at different volumes.
At low volumes, we perceive bass frequencies more than treble frequencies. As the volume increases, our perception of bass and treble frequencies even out.
This phenomenon is known as the “loudness contour” or “equal-loudness contour”.
Filter
A filter is an electronic device that allows certain frequencies to pass through while blocking others.
Equalizer
An equalizer is an electronic device that allows the user to adjust the level of each frequency band.
Efficiency
Efficiency is a measure of how well a speaker converts electrical energy into sound energy.
Dynamic Range
Dynamic range is the difference between the loudest and softest sounds that a speaker can reproduce.
Driver
A driver is a type of loudspeaker that produces low-frequency sounds.
Distortion
Distortion is any change in the waveform of a signal that results in an deterioration of sound quality.
Direct Coupling
Direct coupling is a method of connecting speakers to amplifiers without using an intervening coupling capacitor.
Digital Inputs
Digital inputs are used to connect digital audio sources, such as CDs and DVDs, to speakers.
Delay
Delay is the time it takes for a sound wave to travel from the speaker to the listener.
Impedance is a measure of a speaker’s resistance to electrical current.
Maximum Power Handling
Maximum power handling is the maximum amount of power that a speaker can handle without being damaged.
Midrange Speaker
A midrange speaker is a type of loudspeaker that produces medium-frequency sounds.
Mixer
A mixer is an electronic device that combines multiple audio signals into one signal.
Meridian Lossless Packing (MLP)
Meridian Lossless Packing (MLP) is a type of digital audio compression that allows for lossless audio quality.
Level Control/Volume Control
A level control, or volume control, is an electronic device that allows the user to adjust the volume of an audio signal.
Line Inputs
Line inputs are used to connect speakers to amplifiers.
Linear Phase
Linear phase is a type of speakers that have constant phase relationships between all frequencies.
Kilohertz (kHz)
Kilohertz (kHz) is a unit of measurement for frequency.
It is equal to one thousand cycles per second.
Jitter
Jitter is a type of distortion that occurs when the speakers reproduces sounds at frequencies above the audible range.
This can result in a “muddy” or “tinny” sound.
Interference
Interference is any type of noise that can degrade the quality of an audio signal.
It can be caused by electrical or electromagnetic fields, mechanical vibrations, or temperature changes.
DC
DC is an abbreviation for “direct current”.
It is a type of electrical current that flows in one direction only.
dB/Octave
dB/Octave is a unit of measurement for the slope of a frequency response curve.
It is equal to 20 decibels (dB) per octave.
Decibel (dB)
A decibel (dB) is a unit of measurement for sound pressure level (SPL).
It is equal to one-tenth of a bel, or ten times the logarithm of the ratio of two intensities.
Damping Factor
The damping factor is a measure of how well a speaker can control bass frequencies.
A higher damping factor results in tighter, better defined bass.
DAC
A DAC is an abbreviation for “digital-to-analog converter”.
It is a type of electronic device that converts digital audio signals into analog audio signals.
Crossover frequency
The crossover frequency is the point at which an audio signal is divided into two parts.
One part is sent to the tweeter and the other part is sent to the woofer.
Crossover
A Crossover is an electronic component that splits an audio signal into two or more frequency ranges.
It is used to route signals to the appropriate speakers.
Compression
Compression is a type of processing that reduces the dynamic range of an audio signal.
It can be used to make loud sounds softer and soft sounds louder.
Compression driver
A compression driver is a type of loudspeaker that uses a piston to compress air and create sound waves.
It is often used in PA systems and musical instrument amplifiers.
Condenser microphone
A condenser microphone is a type of microphone that uses a capacitor to convert sound waves into electrical signals.
Clipping
Clipping is a type of distortion that occurs when an amplifier is unable to reproduce the full amplitude of an incoming signal.
Chorus
A chorus is a type of effect that creates a “wandering” or “shimmering” sound.
It is created by combining an audio signal with one or more delayed copies of itself.
Center channel
A center channel is a type of loudspeaker that reproduces dialog and other mid-range frequencies.
It is usually placed in the center of a home theater system.
Crossover distortion
Crossover distortion is a type of distortion that occurs when the speakers are unable to reproduce the full amplitude of an incoming signal.
This can result in a “crunchy” or “harsh” sound.
Bit depth
Bit depth is a measure of the number of bits used to represent an audio signal.
The higher the bit depth, the greater the dynamic range and accuracy of the signal.
Crossfeed
Crossfeed is a type of signal processing that combines left and right stereo signals to create a more natural sound.
Coaxial speakers
Coaxial speakers are speakers that have their tweeters and woofers aligned on the same axis.
This results in a more focused and accurate sound.
Coaxial cable
A coaxial cable is a type of cable that uses two conductors, one inside the other, to carry an audio signal.
The inner conductor is surrounded by an insulating material and a shield.
Capacitor
Capacitor speakers are speakers that use a capacitor to store electrical energy.
This results in a more powerful and efficient speaker.
Bit Rate
Bit rate is the number of bits that are processed per second.
Byte
Byte is a unit of measurement for data storage.
It is equal to eight bits.
Bandwidth
Bandwidth is the range of frequencies that an audio signal can occupy.
Band-Pass Filter (BPF)
Band-pass filters (BPF) are used to remove frequencies outside of the desired band.
Low-Pass Filter (LPF)
Low-pass filters (LPF) are used to remove frequencies above the desired cutoff frequency.
This results in a “muddy” or “tinny” sound.
Background Noise
Background noise is any type of noise that can degrade the quality of an audio signal.
Audio Frequency
Audio frequency is a range of frequencies that can be heard by humans.
Analog
Analog signals are continuous, while digital signals are discrete.
Aliasing
Aliasing is a type of distortion that occurs when an audio signal is sampled at a rate that is too low.
Amplifier
Amplifiers are used to increase the level of an audio signal.
Amplitude
Amplitude is the peak deviation from the average value of a waveform. It’s usually measured in volts for ac signals or watts for power levels. The crest factor, which measures the ratio of peak amplitude to rms value, is also sometimes used to describe amplitude. Crest factor can be expressed as a dB value. For example, if the peak amplitude of a waveform is 10 times its rms value, the crest factor would be 10 dB. The term “amplitude” can also be used to describe sound pressure levels. In this case, amplitude is usually expressed in decibels (dB).
A-Weighting Filter
A-weighting filters are used to remove frequencies outside of the audible range.
Preamplifier
A preamplifier is an electronic device that amplifies low-level signals.
Panning
Panning is the process of moving an audio signal from one side to the other.
Overdrive
Overdrive is a type of distortion that occurs when an audio signal is amplified too much.
This can result in a “muddy” or “tinny” sound.
Omnidirectional
Omnidirectional speakers are speakers that emit sound in all directions.
Oscillation
Oscillation is a type of distortion that occurs when an audio signal is amplified too much.
Noise Floor
Noise floor is the level of background noise that is present in an audio signal.
Muting
Muting is the process of turning off an audio signal.
Mono
Mono signals are single-channel, while stereo signals are two-channel.
Midrange
The midrange is the part of the audio spectrum that contains the most information.
Midrange speakers are speakers that reproduce frequencies in the middle of the audible range.
It is the range of frequencies between the bass and the treble.
Limiter
Limiter is a type of electronic device that prevents an audio signal from being amplified too much, And exceed a certain level.
This results in a “clean” sound.
Level (Volume)
The level (volume) of an audio signal is its loudness. It is usually measured in decibels (dB).
Level Control
Level control is the process of adjusting the volume of an audio signal.
Loudness
Loudness is the subjective perception of sound pressure.
It is measured in units of decibels (dB).
Line Level
Line level is the voltage range of an audio signal.
It is typically between 1 and 10 volts.
Line Level Outputs
Line level outputs are used to connect speakers to amplifiers.
Linearity
Linearity is the relationship between input and output levels.
An ideal amplifier would have a linear relationship.
However, most amplifiers have some degree of nonlinearity.
This can result in distortion.
Gain
Gain is the ratio of output to input signal level.
It is usually measured in decibels (dB).
Fidelity
Fidelity is the degree to which an audio signal is reproduced accurately.
Feedback
Feedback is a type of distortion that occurs when an audio signal is amplified too much.
Far-Field
Far-field speakers are speakers that emit sound in all directions.
Envelope
The envelope of an audio signal is the overall shape of the waveform.
It can be described in terms of Attack, Decay, Sustain, and Release (ADSR).
Last words
A speaker’s sound quality is determined by a number of factors, including its size, shape, and material. The speakers that you use can have a big impact on the quality of your music. In this guide, we’ll go over some of the things that you should look for when choosing speakers.
When it comes to speakers, size matters. Smaller speakers are typically more accurate than larger ones. This is because they have less surface area, so there is less chance for sound waves to bounce around and create distortion. However, smaller speakers might not be able to produce as much bass as larger ones. If you’re looking for accurate sound reproduction, choose small or medium-sized speakers.
The shape of a speaker also affects its sound quality. Round speakers tend to produce more accurate sound than square or rectangular speakers. This is because the round shape evenly diffuses sound waves in all directions. However, square and rectangular speakers can sometimes produce more bass than round ones. If you’re looking for speakers that produce a lot of bass, choose square or rectangular speakers.
The material of a speaker also affects its sound quality. Speakers that are made of stiffer materials, such as metal, glass, or ceramic, tend to produce more accurate sound than those that are made of softer materials, such as cloth or wood. This is because the stiffer materials minimize vibrations and prevent sound waves from bouncing around inside the speaker. If you’re looking for speakers with great sound quality, choose those that are made of stiffer materials.
When it comes to speakers, the quality of the sound is important. But so is the volume. If you’re looking for speakers that can get loud, choose active speakers. Active speakers have their own built-in amplification, so they can reach high volumes without distorting the sound. However, if you’re looking for speakers that produce accurate sound at lower volumes, choose passive speakers. Passive speakers don’t have their own amplification and must be connected to an external amplifier.
The quality of a speaker’s sound is also affected by its frequency response. The frequency response is the range of frequencies that a speaker can reproduce. Most speakers have a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, which is the range of human hearing. However, some speakers have a wider or narrower frequency response. If you’re looking for speakers that can reproduce a wide range of frequencies, choose those with a wide frequency response
Now that you know a little more about the technical jargon, be sure to check out our party speakers buying guide for more information on what to look for when choosing speakers for your next party.
