PA Tweeters
PA tweeters cover the top octaves, from the crossover (typically 1 to 2 kHz for a compression driver) upward. In sound system tops that job is done by compression drivers on horns, sometimes with bullet tweeters above. Wavemark tweeters are not yet available; this page covers what to check meanwhile.
Coming soon. Get in touch to hear when Wavemark tweeters arrive.
Types
| Type | Strengths | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Compression driver + horn | High sensitivity, coverage set by the horn | Needs a high-pass filter at or above the maker's recommended crossover |
| Bullet tweeter | Extra top-octave output above the main horn | Narrow dispersion |
| Dome tweeter | Wide dispersion | Low output for PA level |
| Piezo tweeter | Cheap; capacitive load, so often used without a separate crossover | Limited low-end extension and power handling |
What the numbers look like
Two B&C compression drivers show the range:
| B&C DE250 | B&C DE82TN | |
|---|---|---|
| Exit | 1" (25 mm) | 1.4" (36 mm) |
| Voice coil | 44 mm | 75 mm |
| Diaphragm | Polyimide | Titanium |
| Power (nominal / continuous) | 60 W / 120 W | 110 W / 220 W |
| Sensitivity | 108.5 dB | 106.5 dB |
| Recommended crossover | 1.6 kHz | 1 kHz |
Against a sub driver such as the WM1850/8 at 93.5 dB, these are 13 to 15 dB more sensitive (HF and LF datasheets measure sensitivity under different conditions, so treat the gap as indicative). That is why HF channels need far less amplifier power than subs, and usually some attenuation in the DSP to balance the system.
What to check
- Recommended crossover. Never high-pass below it; below that point excursion rises fast and diaphragms fail. See crossover basics.
- Power rating with its filter. HF ratings are measured with a specified high-pass in place. They do not apply without it.
- Sensitivity. Sets how much level trim the HF band needs against the mids and subs. See sensitivity and decibels.
- Exit size and fixing. The driver's exit and bolt pattern must match the horn throat.
More detail: tweeters vs horns and compression drivers and horns.
Sources: B&C Speakers published data for the DE250 and DE82TN (8 Ω), checked October 2026; Wavemark WM1850/8 spec sheet.
Questions
What is a bullet tweeter?
A compression-type tweeter with a bullet-shaped phase plug in front of the diaphragm. In sound system tops it is often added above the main horn to extend the top octave.
Do tweeters need a crossover?
Compression drivers and domes do; low frequencies drive the diaphragm beyond its limits. Use a high-pass at or above the maker's recommended crossover, for example 1.6 kHz for a B&C DE250. Piezo tweeters are the usual exception because their capacitive load naturally rejects low frequencies.
Why do tweeters need less amplifier power than subs?
Compression drivers are far more sensitive. B&C's DE250 is rated at 108.5 dB against 93.5 dB for the WM1850/8 sub driver, a 15 dB difference, which is about 30 times less power for the same level.