About Enclosure Simulator
A modern, web-based tool for designing loudspeaker enclosures
Existing loudspeaker design tools often have steep learning curves, suffer from lack of updates, and are frequently platform-locked—requiring you to run a VM, install a specific version of Windows, and download an application just to get started.
This project is an attempt to move loudspeaker enclosure design into the modern day:
- No downloads — everything runs in your browser
- Regular updates — we can iterate and improve continuously
- Intuitive interface — designed to be approachable for most people
- Helpful explanations — we provide context where concepts are tricky
This tool uses relatively simple techniques to simulate drivers, unlike more advanced tools like Hornresp or VituixCAD. This is an intentional choice.
Advanced tools incur a steeper learning curve and require deeper understanding of acoustics. We want to keep this tool simple to use for most people, and be a good way to compare drivers as a starting point.
We may get into modelling more complex enclosures later or simulating with more advanced techniques, but this may be another tool.
Electro-Mechanical-Acoustic Circuit Model
The simulator uses a coupled impedance-network solver based on electro-mechanical-acoustic (EMC) circuit analogies. This approach models the driver and enclosure as a network of electrical, mechanical, and acoustic impedances.
Key Components
- Driver Model: The driver is modeled using Thiele-Small parameters (Fs, Qts, Vas, etc.) and represented as an electro-mechanical transducer with voice coil resistance, inductance, and mechanical compliance.
- Enclosure Model: The enclosure is modeled as an acoustic compliance (Cab) for sealed boxes, or as a compliance in parallel with a port mass (Map) for vented boxes.
- Network Solver: At each frequency, the simulator solves the coupled system to find volume velocities, pressures, and ultimately the sound pressure level (SPL) at 1 meter.
The Math (Simplified)
For a vented enclosure, the system can be thought of as:
• Driver cone volume velocity: U_cone = f(Ze, Zmech, Zacoustic)
• Port volume velocity: U_port = f(p_box, Map, Rport)
• Box pressure: p_box = f(U_cone, U_port, Cab, Ral)
• Radiated SPL: SPL = 20·log₁₀(p_rms / p_ref)
Where Z represents impedances (electrical, mechanical, acoustic), and the system is solved iteratively at each frequency point.
Limitations
This model assumes:
- Lumped-parameter modeling (valid at low frequencies)
- Linear behavior (small-signal analysis)
- Simple enclosure geometries (no complex horn or transmission line modeling)
- Far-field radiation (1 meter reference distance)
For more advanced modeling (horns, complex geometries, non-linear behavior), specialized tools like Hornresp or VituixCAD are more appropriate.
What is a loudspeaker enclosure simulator?
A loudspeaker enclosure simulator uses Thiele-Small parameters to predict how a speaker driver will perform in different box designs. It calculates frequency response, SPL, impedance, and excursion for sealed, vented, and passive radiator enclosures.
Is this tool free to use?
Yes, Enclosure Simulator is completely free to use. No account required, no downloads needed - it runs entirely in your web browser.
What are Thiele-Small parameters?
Thiele-Small parameters (Fs, Qts, Vas, Sd, etc.) are electrical and mechanical specifications that describe how a speaker driver behaves. They're essential for designing proper enclosures and predicting low-frequency performance.
Can I use this for subwoofer design?
Yes, the simulator is ideal for subwoofer and low-frequency speaker design. It accurately models sealed boxes, ported/vented boxes, and passive radiator configurations commonly used for subwoofers.
How does this compare to WinISD?
This is a modern, web-based alternative to WinISD. No installation required, works on any device with a browser, and includes features like passive radiator support, parametric EQ, enclosure duplication for quick comparisons, and easy link sharing.
What enclosure types are supported?
Currently supports sealed (closed box), vented (ported/bass reflex), and passive radiator enclosures. Bandpass enclosures are planned for a future update.
Can I import my own driver specifications?
Yes! You can manually enter Thiele-Small parameters for any driver, or import driver files. The tool includes a database of 100+ drivers, but you can add custom drivers for your specific needs.
Is the simulation accurate?
The simulator uses electro-mechanical-acoustic circuit models, which are accurate for low-frequency analysis within the linear operating range. It's suitable for initial design and driver comparison, though real-world factors like cabinet resonances and room acoustics will affect actual performance.
We're actively working on new features and improvements. Check out our roadmap to see what's coming next and vote on features you'd like to see prioritized.