Cerwin Vega At-40 Specs Instant
The internal crossover network splits signals at and 3000 Hz using clean slopes to manage driver transitions smoothly. To protect the voice coils from damage during heavy parties or accidental clipping, Cerwin-Vega integrated an internal PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) protection circuit . If the tweeter gets too hot from excessive power, the PTC safely restricts current until temperatures drop, acting as an automatic fuse. 3. Bass-Reflex Enclosure Construction
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(measured at 1 Watt/1 Meter), allowing it to reach high volumes even with lower-powered amplifiers. : . Crossover Points : and .
The remains a respected vintage loudspeaker for listeners prioritizing efficiency, dynamics, and bass impact over absolute flat frequency response. Its 96 dB sensitivity allows it to pair with a wide range of amplifiers, from vintage receivers to modern Class D designs. While not a studio monitor, it excels in home theater, rock music playback, and any application requiring high output with moderate amplifier power. Collectors and enthusiasts should verify foam surround condition before purchase, but fully restored AT-40s offer exceptional value in the used market. cerwin vega at-40 specs
Who should consider the AT-40
The centerpiece of the AT-40 is its 10-inch low-frequency transducer. Built with a rugged frame and a lightweight, rigid blended cone, it allows for high-velocity linear movement. The iconic red foam surround is not just for show; it provides high compliance, allowing the woofer to drop to a deep effortlessly. Because the cabinet uses a tuned bass-reflex design, air moves efficiently out of the port to reinforce subterranean rumble without straining your amplifier. 2. The Midrange and High-Frequency Assembly
Document prepared for audio engineering reference. Specifications compiled from original service manuals, user reviews, and contemporary loudspeaker measurements. The internal crossover network splits signals at and
Have a pair of AT-40s? Check your serial numbers—early production runs used a cloth surround before switching to foam. Those are rare and require no maintenance!
The Cerwin Vega AT-40 is a testament to a unique era of speaker design, prioritizing efficiency, dynamic range, and sheer listening enjoyment over sterile accuracy. While they require a bit of care in terms of maintenance, their legendary durability and powerful sound continue to make them a highly sought-after speaker for those who love to rock out at home.
1-inch (25 mm) polycarbonate dome tweeter with magnetic fluid cooling. Crossover Points : and
10-inch (254 mm) cast-frame, high-excursion woofer with treated foam surround (characteristic orange color).
| Parameter | Value | |-----------|-------| | | 8 ohms | | Sensitivity (1W/1m) | 96 dB (very high) | | Power Handling (RMS) | 100 watts | | Power Handling (Peak) | 200 watts | | Frequency Response | 38 Hz – 22 kHz (± 3 dB) | | Recommended Amp Power | 20–200 watts RMS per channel | | Maximum SPL | 117 dB (pair, calculated) |
The following specifications are based on documented vintage audio records: : . Power Handling : (RMS). Sensitivity :
If you test a pair and notice a tweeter is cutting out during heavy play, the PTC device is doing its job. If a tweeter stays silent permanently, it may need to be unbolted to verify that the crossover wires are still attached or replaced entirely.
: Like most Cerwin Vegas, the AT-40 excels in the low end. The 10-inch woofer (often featuring the iconic red/orange surround) provides a "chest-pounding" bass experience that is perfect for rock, hip-hop, and house music.