Max SPL Graph

How the Max SPL graph combines thermal and mechanical limits into maximum output over frequency.

Direct answer

The Max SPL graph shows the highest predicted SPL at each frequency before thermal or mechanical limits are reached.

What it measures

• Maximum SPL in dB over frequency.
• The lower of mechanical and thermal max SPL at each point.
• Optional secondary limit series when limit display is enabled.

Why it matters

• It reveals where output is limited by excursion at some frequencies and power handling at others.
• It prevents choosing an enclosure from its one-watt response alone.
• It helps identify useful passband output rather than headline power handling.

How to read it in 00 Simulator

• Compare Max SPL with the normal SPL graph to see available output margin.
• Use the optional limits action to inspect the non-constraining limit when available.
• Open excursion or thermal/headroom references when the max curve collapses in the intended band.

What good, warning, and bad usually look like

Good

Max SPL stays above the target output throughout the intended band.

Warning

A narrow low-frequency region has little margin and may need a high-pass filter.

Bad

The required output crosses the max SPL curve through the passband.

Common false conclusions

• The highest point on the curve is not the usable broadband maximum.
• Max SPL does not include every real-world failure mode such as compression, cooling, or cabinet noise.
• Thermal and mechanical limits should not be averaged together.

App behavior notes

• The UI graph id is `max-spl`; the internal graph key is `maxSpl`.
• The graph supports EQ-aware simulation output.