Crossover Calculator
Calculate capacitor and inductor values for speaker crossover networks
Hertz (Hz) - frequency where speakers cross over
Ohms (Ω) - typically 4, 6, or 8 ohms
How to Use This Calculator
Enter Crossover Frequency
Enter the desired crossover frequency in hertz (Hz). This is the frequency where the speakers transition. Common values: 2000-4000 Hz for 2-way systems, 300-500 Hz for woofer/midrange.
Enter Speaker Impedance
Enter the nominal impedance of your speakers in ohms (Ω). Common values are 4Ω, 6Ω, or 8Ω. Check your speaker specifications.
Calculate Components
Click calculate to get the capacitor value for the high-pass filter (tweeter) and inductor value for the low-pass filter (woofer).
Select Components
Choose the closest standard component values. Capacitors are typically available in standard values, and inductors may need to be custom-wound or purchased.
Formula
C = 1 / (2π × f × Z)
L = Z / (2π × f)
Where:
- C = Capacitor value (F) - for high-pass filter
- L = Inductor value (H) - for low-pass filter
- f = Crossover frequency (Hz)
- Z = Speaker impedance (Ω)
- π ≈ 3.14159
Crossover Types:
- First-order (6 dB/octave): One capacitor and one inductor
- Second-order (12 dB/octave): Two capacitors and two inductors
- Third-order (18 dB/octave): Three components per driver
- Higher order = steeper slope = better separation but more complex
Example 1:
Crossover = 3000 Hz, Impedance = 8 Ω
C = 1 / (2 × π × 3000 × 8) = 1 / 150,796 = 6.63 µF
L = 8 / (2 × π × 3000) = 8 / 18,850 = 0.424 mH
Example 2:
Crossover = 500 Hz, Impedance = 4 Ω
C = 1 / (2 × π × 500 × 4) = 1 / 12,566 = 79.6 µF
L = 4 / (2 × π × 500) = 4 / 3,142 = 1.27 mH
About Crossover Calculator
The Crossover Calculator is a free online tool that helps you design audio crossover networks for multi-way speaker systems. A crossover network divides the audio frequency spectrum and directs appropriate frequencies to different drivers (woofers, midranges, tweeters). This calculator provides component values for first-order crossovers, which use a single capacitor for high-pass filtering and a single inductor for low-pass filtering.
When to Use This Calculator
- Speaker Design: Design crossover networks for DIY speaker projects
- Speaker Repair: Replace damaged crossover components with correct values
- System Upgrade: Modify existing crossovers for different crossover frequencies
- Educational Purposes: Learn about audio crossover networks and filter design
- Professional Audio: Calculate component values for professional speaker systems
Why Use Our Calculator?
- ✅ Accurate Calculations: Uses the correct crossover formulas
- ✅ Easy to Use: Simple interface requiring only frequency and impedance
- ✅ Dual Output: Calculates both capacitor and inductor values
- ✅ Multiple Units: Displays results in appropriate units (µF, mH, etc.)
- ✅ Free Tool: No registration or payment required
- ✅ Educational: Includes formulas and examples for learning
Common Applications
2-Way Speaker Systems: The most common design uses a woofer and tweeter. A typical crossover might be set at 2000-4000 Hz. The capacitor blocks low frequencies from the tweeter, while the inductor blocks high frequencies from the woofer.
3-Way Speaker Systems: These use woofer, midrange, and tweeter. You'll need two crossover points: one for woofer/midrange (typically 300-500 Hz) and one for midrange/tweeter (typically 2000-4000 Hz).
Home Theater Systems: Surround sound systems use crossovers to direct frequencies to appropriate speakers. Subwoofers typically use low-pass filters at 80-120 Hz.
Car Audio: Automotive speaker systems use crossovers to protect tweeters from bass frequencies and direct appropriate frequencies to each driver for optimal sound quality.
Tips for Accurate Results
- Use the nominal impedance printed on your speakers (4Ω, 6Ω, or 8Ω)
- Choose crossover frequency based on speaker capabilities and desired sound
- For tweeters, use high-quality capacitors (film capacitors are preferred)
- For inductors, use air-core or ferrite-core types depending on power handling
- First-order crossovers have gentle slopes - consider higher-order for better separation
- Component values may need adjustment based on actual speaker impedance curves
- Consider capacitor tolerance - use 5% or better tolerance for accurate response
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a crossover frequency?
The crossover frequency is the point where two speakers share power equally (typically -3 dB point). Frequencies above this go to the tweeter, frequencies below go to the woofer. It's chosen based on speaker capabilities and desired sound characteristics.
What's the difference between first-order and higher-order crossovers?
First-order (6 dB/octave) crossovers have gentle slopes and phase issues. Second-order (12 dB/octave) have steeper slopes and better separation. Higher orders provide even better separation but are more complex and expensive. This calculator designs first-order crossovers.
Can I use this for different impedance speakers?
Yes, simply enter the impedance of your speakers. The calculator will adjust component values accordingly. Lower impedance requires larger capacitors and smaller inductors for the same crossover frequency.
What if I can't find the exact capacitor or inductor value?
Use the closest standard value. Capacitors are available in standard E-series values (E6, E12, E24). Inductors may need to be custom-wound or purchased. Small variations (within 10%) are usually acceptable, but may slightly shift the crossover frequency.
Do I need to consider phase in crossover design?
Yes, phase relationships are important. First-order crossovers have 90° phase difference between drivers at crossover frequency. Second-order can be designed for in-phase or out-of-phase operation. For best results, consider phase when designing crossovers.