bassrefleks

Bass reflex, also known as ported or vented, is a type of loudspeaker enclosure that utilizes a port or vent cut into the cabinet. This port is tuned to resonate at a specific low frequency. The primary purpose of a bass reflex system is to enhance the bass response of a loudspeaker.

The port works by allowing the sound waves produced by the rear of the speaker cone to exit the enclosure. At the tuned frequency, these exiting sound waves are in phase with the sound waves produced by the front of the cone. This phase alignment results in an increase in the overall output level at that specific frequency, effectively boosting the bass.

Compared to sealed enclosures, bass reflex designs can often achieve higher efficiency and extend the low-frequency response. This means they can produce louder bass and reach lower notes. However, this comes with trade-offs. The port introduces a specific tuning frequency, and below this frequency, the bass reflex system can become less efficient, and the speaker cone may have less control, potentially leading to over-excursion.

The design and tuning of the port are critical to the performance of a bass reflex enclosure. The diameter and length of the port directly influence the tuning frequency. Incorrectly designed or tuned ports can lead to unwanted resonances, port noise (chuffing or wind noise at high volumes), and a muddy or boomy bass sound. Despite these potential drawbacks, bass reflex is a very common and popular enclosure type in many audio applications, from home stereo speakers to subwoofers.