What is a Transmission Line Enclosure?

A transmission line (TL) enclosure is a type of speaker cabinet that uses an acoustically tuned path or "line" to manage sound waves produced by the back of the speaker. The line is typically folded to fit within a manageable enclosure size. This design minimizes unwanted resonances and improves low-frequency performance.

Pros and Cons of Transmission Line Enclosures

Pros:

• Excellent low-frequency extension and clarity.
• Reduced unwanted resonances and standing waves.
• Improved transient response compared to other designs.

Cons:

• Complex to design and build.
• Requires precise measurements and modeling.
• Larger size compared to sealed or ported enclosures.

Is a Transmission Line Enclosure Right for You?

Choosing a transmission line enclosure depends on your priorities. If you value superior low-frequency clarity and are willing to invest in the design and build process, this might be the ideal choice. However, for simpler setups or space-constrained environments, other options like ported or sealed enclosures might be more practical.

How to Calculate a Transmission Line Enclosure

Calculating a transmission line enclosure involves determining the optimal line length for your speaker. This can be done using the quarter-wave principle, where the length of the line is one-fourth the wavelength of the desired tuning frequency.

Use our Transmission Line Calculator to simplify the process. Input your desired tuning frequency, and the tool will provide the optimal line length.