EV ZX4 Driver Failure

[warrenstuart]

Anybody using EV ZX4s and having problems with drivers failing?

[back_ache]

In general I have found EV to make good reliable speakers.

 

Can you give us more info, what drivers are blowing, what is the situation you are using them in and what is the wattage of the amps you are driving them with. (oh, and is their a DJ anywhere near by <_< )

[revbobuk]

Did have a couple of ZX1 arrive with snapped horn throats, but that was a while ago.

[warrenstuart]

Here's the more info that's needed: -

 

Yes there is a DJ nearby !!

15" LF driver failed open circuit after 3 small gigs (no smell, coil rubbing or worse welded solid).

Small mobile disco, max 120 people.

Amp wattage = 450w RMS into 8ohms.

 

All 3 functions level into amp didn't peak any higher than -4db and speaker didn't fail during the gig but didn't work at the next set up.

[KevinE]

You have to be a special type of DJ to break EV speakers, but I am no longer surprised at their abilities.

 

speaker didn't fail during the gig but didn't work at the next set up.

 

They failed during the gig! Sounds like the winding varnish bubbled up (overheated) and then set hard once cool.

Hope you're using a nice amp for your nice speakers! Crap in = crapout

[warrenstuart]

I would have thought that if the varnish had bubbled up then cooled there would have been some rubbing when the cone was moved by hand but nothing, it was free and silent.

I agree in a way something must have happened during the gig, I should have said there was no loss of sound during the gig but something occured in order for the coil to go o/c. It certainly wasn't pushed too hard (and I understand limits, clipping etc so I don't) so I think this was a fracture in the coil but will never really know for certain.

 

I just posted the question really to see if anyone else has had any problems. Trouble is I'm a bit weary now if I did need to push them in a big room.

 

Wharfedalepro LX-15 - 5 years - yes, pushed very hard some nights (but no clipping) in rooms really too big for a pair of 15" & horn cabs - never had a problem, and they get slated for being rubbish.

 

EV ZX4 - 3 gigs in small rooms and one fails - disappointing!

 

Just a one-off I hope

[plinque]

My experience with EV is that if you do have a problem, they are very efficient at sorting it out and getting you back on track.

[superhands]

My experience with EV is that if you do have a problem, they are very efficient at sorting it out and getting you back on track.

 

 

I 've recently replaced drivers on a pair of zx4's (and yes, because of a dj) The problem is the tops crackle when I relly push them. (peavey cs800)

 

Has anyone else come across this?

 

Would greatly appriciate any feedback:)

 

Regards.

[KevinE]

I suppose the moral is then, don't push them. If you cant achieve the volume you need without 'pushing' the speakers, then get a bigger system or more of it. This is a basic principle of a reliable PA; fitness for purpose. Dont assume that just because speakers are a good name and of great quality that they are bombproof if they're caned.