Ceramic vs. Alnico Magnet Speakers
Typical Alnico Magnet Speaker. Note: This one has a the square magnet cover
Typical Ceramic Magnet Speaker. Note the shape of the magnet.
I offer some amps with Alnico Speakers and some Ceramic Speakers. Here’s a brief article on the differences between the two. In general I offer amps stock with the magnet type that would have originally came with a vintage model unless I have a strong preference for the other type of speaker in that model.
What is Ceramic and Alnico?
They are both materials used to make magnets. Alnico is made from rare earth metals (Aluminum, Nickel and Cobalt) hence the name which is simply their respective abbreviations on the periodic table of elements. As the name suggests rare earth metal are rare thus they cost much more. Initially all magnets on speakers were Alnico until Ceramic Magnets where invented. Ceramic magnets are made of Strontium Ferrite which a much cheaper and more abundant material.
Tonal/Physical Differences:
Ceramic speakers are heavier because their magnet must be heavier to achieve the same power (all other thing equals).
Alnico speakers compress at high volumes; ceramics do not
Alnico speaker breakup quicker that ceramic (I.E. ceramic speakers have more headroom)
Ceramic speakers tend to have more punch and clarity
Alnico speaker sound warmer and slightly darker. Ceramic tend to be brighter but not as warm
Ceramic speakers are less expensive. This is especially true for speaker designs with larger magnets
So which is best?
Both are good and have their applications. It’s really up to the listener which one they prefer. If bright, clean, and punchy are the tones you want go Ceramic. If warm, detailed, and easy breakup sounds better to you try Alnico. I’m of course happy to help you decide.
Contact me and I’ll be happy to give you my two cents! I am Celestion, Eminence, Jensen and Weber dealer and can get you great prices!