So, I have a question about soft/stiff spiders vs more or less power.

[soundsystemaniac]

I am trying to understand this better and figured you all could help.

For Examples sake- say we have 1 sub that has different spider pack options.

In my mind, it makes sense that you would want the sub to be moving as far as it can before it reaches mechanical limits right? (to be the loudest)

Why would you opt to have spiders that keep the sub stiffer and harder to move-wouldnt that make it quieter?

I feel like it would make more sense to have a sub that is rated at 1000 rms and has a soft spider pack so that when you put a low amount of power to it, it would be moving and be louder. Why would you want a stiff spider pack even though it means you would have to have more power to move the sub-even if it could handle over rms rating. Wouldnt that just make it inefficient? Taking all the extra power to move the cone the same distance- then causing more heat just to need more electrical to be equally as loud?

I know there is a reason people do it. I am just trying to figure out why.

[timc31610]

I have no clue, but I am sure someone will come in and enlighten us.

[HowLowCanYouGo]

In for answer

[bbeljefe]

If you need your truck to haul a heavy load, do you put weaker springs on it?

The thing with stiff suspensions is that they're necessary to keep the sub from hitting its mechanical limits when more power is applied. When you go with stiffer suspension, you can handle more power and all that is a balance between power and efficiency, just as it is with the suspension under a pickup truck.

[bkolfo4]

Most of the power ratings you see are just the thermal limit of the coil.

The mechanical limit is where most people get in trouble. Reaching the mechanical limit is going to be based on several factors (other than power applied) - moving mass, suspension stiffness, Fs, and of course box design.

Stiffer suspension helps with reaching the mechanical limit, but of course there are trade offs. A big one - a higher Fs.

Extra spiders when spaced or stacked enough will also help with coil rock.

Bottom line - just adding spiders is just like any other "solution". It is not always the best idea, but it can help in many situations. Depends on what you are trying to achieve.

Brian

[Kyblack76]

So, the spaced option on the sp4 does in fact do something for control? And or handling?

Man, I'd live to hear more.

[dolarbilz]

With the spiders isn't there like linear and progressive style how does that effect the woofer

[soundsystemaniac]

Bump for other points of views!

[fox_racin4]

Kyle, the spaced spider holds the coil better, If you wanted to keep something straight, would you want ine contact point Or 2?

[Dangrebel]

Progressive spiders get stiffer the further they travel. Linear spiders retain the same stiffness as they travel.