What does a crossover do

The crossover is an electronic device, and its role in the sound system is mainly reflected in the following aspects:

1. Frequency allocation and control

Precise assignment of frequency ranges

In a multi-unit speaker system, such as a tweeter, midrange, and woofer, each speaker unit has its optimal operating frequency range. The crossover can divide the audio signal according to the frequency level, so that the signals of different frequency bands can be accurately distributed to the corresponding speaker unit. For example, send a low-frequency signal of 20Hz - 200Hz to the woofer, a mid-frequency signal of 200Hz - 2000Hz to the mid-range speaker, and a high-frequency signal of 2000Hz - 20000Hz to the tweeter.

Adjust the frequency response

The crossover can adjust the frequency range and slope of each band as needed. The slope indicates the steepness of the frequency transition, and the common slopes are 6dB/octave (6dB drop per octave), 12dB/octave, etc. The steeper slope allows for a clearer delineation of the operating range of the different loudspeaker units, avoiding frequency overlap and mutual interference, thus optimizing the frequency response of the entire sound system for a clearer, more balanced sound.

2. Protect the speaker unit

Prevent overloading

Without the use of a crossover, adding an audio signal containing all the frequency components directly to a speaker unit may expose the driver to frequencies and power that are beyond its design range. For example, forcing a low-frequency signal to a tweeter may cause excessive vibration or even damage to the diaphragm due to the tweeter's physical structure and diaphragm characteristics that are not suitable for handling low-frequency signals. The crossover protects the speaker unit from overload damage by separating the signals and ensuring that each speaker unit only receives and processes signals at the frequency appropriate to it.

Extended service life

Proper use of the crossover can reduce the amount of time the speaker unit works at inappropriate frequencies, reduce its wear and tear, and thus extend the life of the speaker unit.

3. Improve sound quality

Improves sound clarity

When individual loudspeaker units are only responsible for their specific frequency range, the sound signal can be reproduced more accurately. In this way, mutual interference and turbidity between signals of different frequencies can be avoided, so that the sound is clearer and purer, and the restoration and intelligibility of the sound can be improved.

Enhance musical expression

Crossovers help to highlight the different instruments and sound elements in your music. For example, when playing a symphony, it can better restore the softness of string instruments, the brightness of brass instruments, and the rhythm of percussion instruments, so that the layering and expressiveness of the music can be enhanced.