A study of the plasma tweeter

Abstract

For this project, I studied the plasma tweeter, a non-traditional loudspeaker that is becoming popular in the audiophile and electronics-hobbyist communities. In general, the plasma tweeter involves a visible high-voltage electrical arc that produces sound and can be used to play music. Despite the technical nature of this project, all people can appreciate the novelty of a "singing" electrical arc. Furthermore, the future of loudspeakers may very well rest on plasma tweeter technology if it can be made practical, safe, and affordable for consumers.

To carry out this study, I first found a pre-existing schematic (electronic circuit design) of a plasma tweeter that was appropriate for my skill level, and I used it to build my own plasma tweeter. Interpreting someone else's design, finding and buying the correct components, and troubleshooting my own circuit were important parts of the construction process. Next, I performed tests on this plasma tweeter to learn more about its capability as a loudspeaker and to find ways to get an optimal sound from it. Throughout this study, I studied the schematic closely to learn the technical concepts behind its operation.