How to find the right Audio & Video Crossover Parts AI guide

Written by an AI model from its trained knowledge.

What the AI looks for in Audio & Video Crossover Parts

Match original values: Replace each part with the same capacitance (µF), inductance (mH) or resistance (ohms), within a similar tolerance. Crossover values set the crossover frequency and driver balance, so changing them alters the speaker's voicing.
Capacitor type and polarity: Use non-polarized capacitors only. Polypropylene film is preferred in tweeter circuits. Non-polar electrolytics are acceptable for large woofer-section values. Polarized electrolytics fail on AC audio signals, and film caps age far better than electrolytics.
Capacitor voltage rating: Use a voltage rating at or above the original. 100V or more is the common practice for passive speaker crossovers. Under-rated caps can break down when the speaker is driven hard.
Inductor DCR and core: Match or reduce DC resistance (heavier wire gauge). Air-core inductors avoid saturation, while iron or ferrite cores save space for large woofer values. Higher DCR wastes woofer output and changes damping, and saturating cores distort at high levels.
Resistor wattage: Use non-inductive power resistors, typically rated 10W or higher, for tweeter attenuation (L-pad) positions. Small resistors overheat and drift when they absorb amplifier power.

Dayton Audio: Budget film caps, air-core inductors and resistors.
Jantzen Audio: Wide range of capacitors and inductors, from budget to audiophile grades.
Mundorf: Premium capacitors and resistors.
Solen: Long-standing polypropylene crossover capacitors and inductors.
ERSE: Inductors and capacitors sold in many standard values.

Polarized electrolytic capacitors in any crossover position.
Rounding to a 'close enough' value without measuring the original.
Replacing working parts with exotic caps expecting a big change. Restoring dried-out electrolytics matters far more.

Often yes, on speakers decades old, since electrolytics dry out. Replace like-for-like values, ideally with film caps where size allows.