How do you turn a speaker woofer to a sub kick or large diaphragm microphone
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Turning a speaker woofer into a subkick or large diaphragm microphone is a popular DIY project among musicians and audio engineers, leveraging the principle that a speaker, a transducer, can operate in reverse to convert sound waves into electrical signals, much like a dynamic microphone. This setup is particularly effective for capturing low-frequency information, such as from a kick drum or bass cabinet. Here's how to do it: Convert a speaker woofer into a subkick microphone by wiring its terminals to an XLR connector (often with reversed polarity), mounting it securely, and managing its hot output signal with a pad. This creates a large-diaphragm microphone ideal for capturing low frequencies. 1. Select Your Speaker Woofer:
- 1.Size: Opt for a woofer, typically 6 to 10 inches, as these are best suited for capturing low frequencies (sub-100Hz range). While any speaker can technically work, woofers from old guitar amps or car audio systems are common choices. The classic choice is often a Yamaha NS10 woofer due to its frequency response.
- 2.Condition: Ensure the speaker cone is intact and free from damage, as this is the "diaphragm" of your new microphone.
- 3.Extraction: Carefully remove the woofer from its enclosure, leaving as much wire slack attached to the cone terminals as possible.
- 4.XLR Cable: Obtain a male XLR connector and a length of microphone cable. You'll typically cut the male end off an existing XLR cable.
- 5.Strip Wires: Strip the outer jacket and insulation from the cut end of the XLR cable to expose the internal wires (usually two signal wires and a shield/ground).
- 6.Solder Connections:
- 7.Connect the speaker's positive (+) terminal to XLR pin 3.
- 8.Connect the speaker's negative (-) terminal to XLR pin 2.
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