Magnetic drivers, particularly the planar magnetic type described, work by using an electrical audio signal to interact with a magnetic field, causing a diaphragm to vibrate and produce sound.
A magnetic driver, often found in high-end headphones and speakers, operates on the principle of electromagnetism to convert electrical signals into sound waves. Unlike traditional dynamic drivers that use a cone and voice coil, planar magnetic drivers utilize a thin, flat diaphragm suspended between magnets.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Components: A planar magnetic driver consists of a thin, flat diaphragm with conductive traces or a wire running through it. Magnets (typically permanent magnets arranged in a specific pattern) are suspended next to the diaphragm, creating a static magnetic field.
- Electrical Signal Input: The audio signal, which is an electrical current, is sent through the wire on the diaphragm.
- Creating an Electromagnetic Field: As the electrical signal (an alternating current representing the audio) passes through the conductive wire, it generates a changing magnetic field around the wire.
- Interaction with Permanent Magnets: This changing magnetic field from the wire interacts with the static magnetic field of the permanent magnets. This interaction creates a force on the wire and, therefore, the diaphragm.
- Diaphragm Movement: As described in the reference, "The electromagnetic signal running through the wires moves the diaphragm by turning it on and off to create the reaction between the magnets and the diaphragm." This means the alternating nature of the audio signal causes the force between the wire's magnetic field and the permanent magnets' field to rapidly push and pull the diaphragm.
- Sound Production: The rapid vibration of the thin diaphragm moves the air next to it, creating sound waves that we hear.
In essence, the electrical audio signal becomes a changing magnetic force that directly vibrates a lightweight diaphragm, producing sound. This design often results in precise and detailed audio reproduction.