Hoffman Amplifiers Tube Amplifier Forum

Other Stuff => Cabinets-Speakers => Topic started by: samato on January 27, 2011, 05:49:00 pm

Title: Metal Speaker Grill vs. Speaker Grill Cloth
Post by: samato on January 27, 2011, 05:49:00 pm

Does anyone think that this decision will change the sound of your speaker/cabinet?  It makes sense that it could - reflections from the hard, metal surface vs. a soft cloth but I wonder if in a case of say a cabinet with one 12" speaker if it would even be a noticeable difference.

I'm asking because I'll be making my first cabinet soon and metal would be cheaper and easier for me but all the great amps I've owned and played through use cloth.  If it's just a matter of cosmetics I'd couldn't care less but if it's a sound thing I want to stay in the realm of what I know and love.

Title: Re: Metal Speaker Grill vs. Speaker Grill Cloth
Post by: Frankenamp on January 27, 2011, 08:42:00 pm

Are we talking a piece of metal plate with holes punched in it or metal cloth (screen)?

As long as the holes are about 50% of the area or more you should be fine. (rule of thumb)

Title: Re: Metal Speaker Grill vs. Speaker Grill Cloth
Post by: samato on January 27, 2011, 11:02:01 pm

I really don't know what the stuff I'm looking at is called, just some scrap pieces I've seen at a surplus store.  The holes are definitely 50% or more of the area though. 

Thanks.

Title: Re: Metal Speaker Grill vs. Speaker Grill Cloth
Post by: Frankenamp on January 28, 2011, 12:04:03 am

Should be OK, when you install the piece, tap it and listen for any 'ringing' sound if none all is OK. If you get a noticable "ding" sound- put a strip of foam rubber gasket tape around the perimeter to kill any stray resonances. Resonant wood is usually considered good, resonant metal not so much.