Hornhögtalare

Hornhögtalare, often translated as horn speakers, are a type of loudspeaker that utilizes a horn, a type of acoustic transformer, to improve the efficiency and directivity of the driver. A horn speaker consists of a driver (typically a compression driver for mid-range and high frequencies, or a dynamic woofer for low frequencies) coupled to a horn. The horn's shape is designed to gradually expand, increasing its cross-sectional area from the driver's throat to the horn's mouth. This expansion acts to match the impedance of the air to the impedance of the driver, allowing for more efficient transfer of acoustic energy.

The primary advantage of horn loading is increased sensitivity. This means that horn speakers can produce a higher sound pressure level (SPL) for a given amount of electrical power compared to un-horned speakers. This high efficiency makes them well-suited for use with low-power amplifiers. Additionally, horns provide a degree of directivity control. The horn's design can shape the sound dispersion pattern, focusing sound energy in a particular direction. This can help to reduce reflections from room surfaces and improve clarity in certain listening environments.

However, horn speakers also have potential drawbacks. The physical size of horns can be considerable, especially for lower frequencies, which can be a challenge for placement. The acoustic loading can also introduce coloration or distortion if the horn is not designed or implemented perfectly. Different horn shapes, such as exponential, conical, and quadratic, are employed to achieve various sonic characteristics and dispersion patterns. Horn speakers are found in a wide range of applications, from public address systems and sound reinforcement to high-fidelity audio reproduction.