The short answer is yes, speakers can degrade if not used. However, the rate of degradation will depend on a number of factors, including the type of speakers, the environment in which they are stored, and how often they are used.
Factors that can affect speaker degradation
- Type of speakers: Some types of speakers are more susceptible to degradation than others. For example, speakers with foam surrounds are more likely to degrade than speakers with rubber surrounds. This is because foam surrounds can dry out and crack over time.
- Environment: Speakers that are stored in a humid or dusty environment are more likely to degrade than speakers that are stored in a clean and dry environment. This is because humidity and dust can damage the speaker components.
- Frequency of use: Speakers that are used regularly are less likely to degrade than speakers that are rarely used. This is because regular use helps to keep the speaker components moving and prevents them from becoming stiff.
How to prevent speaker degradation
There are a few things you can do to prevent your speakers from degrading:
- Store them in a clean and dry environment. If you are not using your speakers for an extended period of time, store them in a clean and dry place. You may want to cover them with a dust cover to protect them from dust.
- Use them regularly. Even if you are not using your speakers for extended periods of time, it is a good idea to use them for a few minutes every few weeks. This will help to keep the speaker components moving and prevent them from becoming stiff.
- Inspect them regularly. Inspect your speakers regularly for any signs of damage. If you notice any damage, such as cracks in the cabinets or tears in the cones, have the speakers repaired by a qualified technician.
While speakers can degrade if not used, there are a few things you can do to prevent this from happening. By storing your speakers in a clean and dry environment, using them regularly, and inspecting them regularly for any signs of damage, you can help to extend the life of your speakers and ensure that they continue to sound their best.
Additional tips
- If you have speakers with foam surrounds, you can help to extend the life of the surrounds by treating them with a foam conditioner. Foam conditioners can help to keep the surrounds from drying out and cracking.
- If you are storing your speakers for an extended period of time, you may want to disconnect them from your amplifier and remove the dust caps. This will help to prevent the amplifier from damaging the speakers and the dust caps from becoming damaged.
- If you are using your speakers in a humid environment, you may want to consider using a dehumidifier. This will help to reduce the humidity in the air and prevent the speaker components from becoming damaged.