A moving iron speaker is a loudspeaker that uses a magnet and a movable iron core to convert electrical signals into sound waves. The assembly consists of a stationary magnet and coil of wire attached to the diaphragm, or moving iron core.
When an electrical current passes through a coil, it creates a magnetic field that interacts with the stationary magnet and causes its iron core to oscillate back and forth. This movement causes the attached diaphragm to vibrate, producing sound waves from the speaker.
Moving iron speakers are widely used in audio systems such as home theatre, music, and sound reinforcement setups. They boast superior accuracy, efficiency and longevity compared to other types of speakers, such as electrostatic or ribbon ones, which can handle higher power levels with more excellent dynamics.
Picture of a cone speaker
Moving iron speakers are renowned for their accuracy in reproducing a broad range of frequencies. They are ideal for music playback and sound reinforcement applications where fidelity is essential.
Moving iron speakers come in two varieties: dynamic, which uses a voice coil attached to the diaphragm for motion, and horn-loaded, with its flared horn, for improved efficiency and directional control of sound.
One of the primary advantages of moving iron speakers is their robustness, as they can withstand high temperatures and power levels without distortion or breakage. Furthermore, their cost-effectiveness makes them a popular choice for home and commercial audio systems.
Moving iron speakers do have some limitations, however. They’re not as energy-efficient as other speakers, like horn-loaded models, and may need more power to achieve similar volume levels. Furthermore, moving iron speakers may not produce as fine detail and nuance as planar magnetic or electrostatic models can.
Pros:
Accurate and Wide Frequency Response: Moving iron speakers can reproduce a wide range of frequencies accurately, making them ideal for music playback or sound reinforcement applications where high fidelity is essential.
Durability: Moving iron speakers are renowned for their strength and endurance in extreme temperatures and power levels, making them an excellent choice for audio systems that can withstand extreme conditions without distorting or breaking. This makes them a reliable option.
Relatively affordable: Moving iron speakers offer a competitive price point compared to other speakers, making them accessible to an extensive range of customers.
Cons:
Less efficient: Moving iron speakers are not as energy-efficient as other speakers, such as horn-loaded ones; this means they require more power to achieve similar volume levels.
Limited Detail and Nuance: While moving iron speakers can reproduce a wide range of frequencies accurately, they may not be able to produce the same level of detail and nuance as other types of speakers, such as planar magnetic or electrostatic models.
Heavy: Iron speakers can be pretty heavy in specific applications due to their construction.