Three-way and two-way acoustics: features, advantages, differences

In the modern market, acoustic systems are presented in a fairly large range. This equipment differs from each other in the field of application (instrumental, concert, studio and others), according to technical specifications, the form of the case and many other qualities. The most important parameter that must be taken into account in the first place is the number of "bands" in the system. According to this criterion, one-, three- and two-way acoustics are singled out. What they differ from each other and which system is better, we will try to answer in this article.

Frequency of sound

Human hearing organs are capable of recognizing sounds at a frequency of 20 to 20,000 Hz. Therefore, the quality of music directly depends on the ability of the equipment to create clear sound waves in this range. To this end, the speakers began to include speakers reproducing extremely low (20-150 Hz), medium (100-7000 Hz) and high (5-20 thousand Hz) frequencies. In this regard, appeared:

1. Single-band systems, where the entire frequency range is created by one speaker.
2. Two-way acoustics, which has two speakers: one for playing music at medium and low frequencies, the second - only at high.
3. Three-band equipment - a separate "column" is responsible for playing sounds in each band.

There is equipment with a large number of bands, where each speaker reproduces the sound in a certain frequency range. The most popular are two- and three-way systems - they are the most affordable and at the same time provide excellent sound quality.

Advantages of two-way acoustics

Two-way speakers are most popular among motorists. They provide optimal sound quality, while at the same time have an affordable price. Due to the development of technologies, two-way acoustics is being actively replaced by three-way equipment, but it is still widespread because of its advantages:

1. A simple design that simplifies installation and configuration.
2. A high degree of consistency between the speakers, which improves the sound quality.
3. Maximum natural, "live" sound.

In two-way equipment there are only two speakers - LF and HF. The LF column reproduces sounds in the low and medium bands, and the HF - only in high. Due to this, simple separation filters are needed to operate the system.

Features of three-way equipment

Three-way acoustics differs from the already described system with better sound. Equipment in such systems is equipped with a midrange driver, which carries so-called "spatial" information, creates a surround sound. In addition, thanks to the division of responsibilities, the equipment has become more compact. The negative quality of the three-way systems is a high price. It is two to three times higher than for two-way acoustics. Moreover, three-way acoustics implies installation of crossovers - complex frequency filters. To configure such equipment it is necessary to have an excellent hearing, otherwise it will not be possible to achieve consistency from the speakers.

Differences of acoustic systems

Any speaker system consists of speakers (MF, LF and HF), filter equipment, signal amplifiers, audio cables and input terminals. Filter devices are responsible for dividing the audio signal into several bands. The two-way acoustics filter divides frequencies into two "sections" - up to 5-6 thousand Hz, and above 6 kHz. Three-band devices are usually equipped with crossovers - adjustable frequency filters that break the range of sound into three sections.

All acoustic equipment can be active or passive. In the first case, each speaker is equipped with a separate signal amplifier. Such a solution facilitates the matching of radiators, reduces the overall cost of the system. However, at the same time, the complexity of maintenance, installation and initial configuration increases. Separate amplifiers most often complement a set of three-band devices.

Coaxial and component dynamics

The way a three- or two-way acoustics will sound in a car depends largely on the type of speakers that are coaxial and component. The first represent a single monolithic construction, in which radiators of high, medium and low frequencies are combined . This makes the sound narrow. Therefore, such devices are used as a supplement and mainly in small cars. Component speakers are radiators that can be placed in different places. Due to this, it is possible to achieve surround sound, however, the process of installing the equipment becomes more complicated. In addition, if the installation is incorrect, the sound stage will be very heterogeneous. Component systems are installed in cars with a spacious interior.

Price issue

As it was mentioned earlier, two-way acoustics will cost much less than installation of three-way equipment. This is due to two reasons:

• Less equipment - requires only two speakers, a maximum of two amplifiers and one filter;
• A simple installation - you can assemble such a system yourself, possessing elementary knowledge in the field of electricity.

The composition of the three-band systems includes more sophisticated equipment, the cost of which far exceeds the price of conventional devices. In addition, if you decide to install such acoustics, you will need to seek the help of professionals - without special measuring devices and a thin ear, the mounted system will sound the same as the two-way acoustics. This is the main answer to the question of what distinguishes two-way acoustics from a three-band.