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Speaker Crossover Design Calculator

Capacitor and inductor values for audio crossovers

Crossover Frequency

3,000 Hz

Order

12 dB/oct

Z

8 Ω

Crossover Components

3,000 Hz

Low-Pass (Woofer)

Inductor: 600.21 µH
Capacitor: 4.69 µF

High-Pass (Tweeter)

Capacitor: 4.69 µF
Inductor: 600.21 µH

Example Calculations

12nd order at 3kHz, 8Ω

Inputs

Frequency3,000 Hz
Impedance8 Ω
Order2nd (12dB/oct)

Result

LP Inductor0.600 mH
LP Capacitor4.69 µF
HP Capacitor4.69 µF
HP Inductor0.600 mH

L = 8×1.414/(2π×3000) = 0.600mH. C = 1/(2π×3000×8×1.414) = 4.69µF.

21st order at 3kHz, 8Ω

Inputs

Frequency3,000 Hz
Impedance8 Ω
Order1st (6dB/oct)

Result

LP Inductor0.424 mH
HP Capacitor6.63 µF

L = 8/(2π×3000) = 0.424mH. C = 1/(2π×3000×8) = 6.63µF.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q

How do I calculate crossover component values?

For 1st order at 3kHz with 8Ω drivers: LP inductor = Z/(2πf) = 0.424mH, HP capacitor = 1/(2πfZ) = 6.63µF. 2nd order Butterworth uses √2 factor.

  • 1st order LP: L = Z/(2πf)
  • 1st order HP: C = 1/(2πfZ)
  • 2nd order LP: L = Z√2/(2πf), C = 1/(2πfZ√2)
  • 2nd order HP: C = 1/(2πfZ√2), L = Z√2/(2πf)
OrderSlopeComponentsPhase Shift
1st6 dB/oct1 per filter90°
2nd12 dB/oct2 per filter180°
3rd18 dB/oct3 per filter270°
4th24 dB/oct4 per filter360°
Q

What crossover frequency should I use?

Typical 2-way: 2–4kHz. The tweeter should handle 1 octave below crossover. For a tweeter rated to 2kHz, cross at 3–4kHz minimum.

  • 2-way: 2–4kHz typical
  • Tweeter safe: 1 octave above crossover
  • Woofer: crosses below cone breakup
  • Subwoofer: 80–120Hz for home theater
Q

Should I use 1st or 2nd order crossover?

1st order (6dB/oct): simplest, best transient response, but weak separation. 2nd order (12dB/oct): better driver protection, standard for most DIY speakers.

  • 1st order: 1 component per filter, gentle slope
  • 2nd order: 2 components, most popular DIY choice
  • 1st order: drivers must handle more out-of-band signal
  • 2nd order Butterworth: flat summed response
Q

Does driver impedance affect crossover values?

Yes. Higher impedance requires larger inductors and smaller capacitors. 8Ω is standard; 4Ω drivers need half the inductance and double the capacitance for the same frequency.

  • Higher Z: larger L, smaller C
  • 4Ω: half the L, double the C vs 8Ω
  • Use actual impedance at crossover frequency
  • Impedance rises above DC resistance at crossover

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Last Updated: Mar 20, 2026

This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.

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