When we talk about “frequency” we’re referring to a range of sound the human ear can hear. Sometimes called the corner frequency or cutoff frequency, it’s used as a starting point in math calculations for audio design.Ī musical signal’s frequency is described by the number of times per second an alternative wave is completed. We use it as a reference point at which the output to a speaker (or the input to an amplifier, when using active crossovers) is reduced by 3 decibels (-3dB). The crossover frequency is the sound frequency point at which sounds after that will be greatly reduced, effectively blocking them. (Shown is a typical frequency used at 3,500 Hz ). To prevent this, we can block unwanted sounds. A passive crossover (speaker crossover)Īs tweeters can’t produce low frequency sound, they distort and can even be damaged by heavy bass.There are 2 types of crossovers you’ll use with your home or car audio system: In fact, you’ll almost never find a good-sounding speaker system that isn’t using 1 or more types of crossovers. They’re a critical part of good sound fidelity.

Both types are very commonly found in home, car stereo, and professional audio. There are 2 types of crossovers: active (electronic) and passive (speaker) types.A crossover’s outputs are the signal ranges allowed to pass such as high pass (lower frequencies are blocked) and low pass (higher frequencies are blocked).It’s the frequency point past which signals are reduced by 3 decibels (represented as -3dB) and more further away from that point. A crossover frequency is the sound frequency that acts as the cutoff point for crossover filters.A crossover filter works using the principle of passive or electronic filters to block a range of sound in the audio signal.(For example, tweeters and woofers in a 2-way speaker system) They offer a way to send the correct range of sound to the speaker with a frequency response best suited for it. Crossovers are electrical or electronic circuits used to alter or separate an incoming musical signal sent to one or more outputs.

What is cutoff frequency