'Running in', also known as 'burn-in', is a concept in the world of loudspeakers that refers to the process where you use the speakers for a certain period to allow the components, especially the driver elements like the cone and surround, to loosen up and reach their optimal operating condition.
While some listeners choose to speed up this process through an intensive 'running-in' period, the same results can be achieved through normal use.
Here are a few tips regarding the 'running-in' of your speakers.
1. Start at Low Volumes: Initially, it's best to play music through your new speakers at a lower volume. This approach gently eases the mechanical parts into operation, reducing stress on the components.
2. Gradually Increase Volume: As time passes, gradually increase the volume. This step allows the speakers to comfortably adapt to various frequencies and volumes.
3. Play a Range of Music: Different musical genres can challenge different parts of the speaker's frequency range, which is beneficial.
4. Regular Use: It's more effective to use your speakers consistently over the first few weeks than to try and run them in over a single long session. Think of this as giving your speakers regular, moderate workouts.
5. Duration: The recommended duration for the running-in process varies. While some suggest 20-30 hours, others recommend up to 100 hours. Importantly, these hours can be cumulative; there's no need to complete them in one go.
6. Exercise Moderation: Initially, avoid playing at extremely loud volumes or with very high levels of low-frequency content, as this could strain the speakers.
7. Listen to the Changes: Pay attention to how the sound quality changes. Many users notice that the sound becomes more open, detailed, or balanced after the speakers have been run in.
8. Enjoy the Process: Lastly, remember that part of the running-in process includes getting accustomed to the speakers, as well as the speakers themselves adapting. Enjoy exploring the capabilities and nuances of your new equipment.