Introduction:
The Harman Kardon Go + Play is celebrated for its exceptional audio quality, sleek design, and versatile portability. However, over time, users may encounter issues with the speaker’s drivers or other internal components, necessitating speaker replacement. In this comprehensive review, we will explore the process of replacing the speakers in the Harman Kardon Go + Play, including reasons for replacement, compatibility considerations, and step-by-step instructions for performing the replacement.
Understanding Speaker Replacement:
Speaker replacement involves replacing the drivers or other internal components of the Harman Kardon Go + Play to restore its audio performance. Several reasons may warrant speaker replacement, including:
- Driver Damage: Physical damage to the speaker drivers, such as tears or punctures in the cone, can compromise sound quality and necessitate replacement.
- Speaker Aging: Over time, the speaker drivers may degrade or wear out, resulting in diminished audio performance and the need for replacement.
- Upgrading Components: Some users may choose to replace the stock speakers in the Harman Kardon Go + Play with higher-quality aftermarket speakers to improve sound quality or achieve a specific audio profile.
Compatibility Considerations:
Before proceeding with speaker replacement, it’s essential to consider compatibility factors to ensure that the new speakers are compatible with the Harman Kardon Go + Play.
- Speaker Size: The replacement speakers should be of a similar size and form factor to the original speakers to fit properly within the speaker enclosure.
- Impedance Matching: The impedance of the replacement speakers should match the impedance of the original speakers to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with the amplifier.
- Power Handling: The replacement speakers should be capable of handling the same or higher power levels as the original speakers to prevent damage and ensure proper operation.
- Mounting Compatibility: The replacement speakers should have mounting holes or brackets that align with the mounting points in the Harman Kardon Go + Play enclosure for secure installation.
Performing Speaker Replacement:
Now, let’s explore the step-by-step process for replacing the speakers in the Harman Kardon Go + Play:
- Gather Materials:
- Replacement speakers compatible with the Harman Kardon Go + Play
- Screwdriver set
- Pliers
- Wire cutters/strippers
- Soldering iron and solder (if necessary)
- Prepare the Workspace:
- Find a clean, well-lit workspace with ample room to work on the Harman Kardon Go + Play. Lay down a soft cloth or towel to protect the speaker from scratches or damage.
- Remove Speaker Grille:
- Use a screwdriver to remove any screws securing the speaker grille to the Harman Kardon Go + Play enclosure. Carefully lift the grille away from the enclosure to access the speakers.
- Disconnect Wiring:
- Use pliers to disconnect the wiring harness or speaker terminals connected to the original speakers. Take note of the polarity (positive and negative) of each wire for proper reconnection later.
- Remove Original Speakers:
- Use a screwdriver to remove any screws or mounting brackets securing the original speakers to the Harman Kardon Go + Play enclosure. Carefully lift the speakers away from the enclosure and set them aside.
- Install Replacement Speakers:
- Align the replacement speakers with the mounting points in the Harman Kardon Go + Play enclosure. Use screws or mounting brackets to secure the replacement speakers in place.
- Connect Wiring:
- Connect the wiring harness or speaker terminals to the replacement speakers, ensuring that the polarity matches the original configuration. Use wire cutters/strippers to trim and strip the wire ends if necessary.
- Test Operation:
- Before reassembling the Harman Kardon Go + Play, test the operation of the replacement speakers to ensure they are functioning properly. Connect the speaker to a power source and audio input device and play some audio to verify sound quality.
- Reassemble:
- Once the replacement speakers have been tested and confirmed to be working correctly, reassemble the Harman Kardon Go + Play in the reverse order of disassembly. Secure the speaker grille back onto the enclosure using screws.
- Final Checks:
- Perform a final visual inspection to ensure that all components are properly installed and secured. Test the operation of the Harman Kardon Go + Play again to confirm that everything is functioning as expected.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, speaker replacement can breathe new life into the Harman Kardon Go + Play, restoring its audio performance and extending its lifespan. By following the step-by-step instructions outlined in this review and considering compatibility factors, users can successfully replace the speakers in their Harman Kardon Go + Play with confidence. Whether replacing damaged drivers or upgrading components for improved sound quality, speaker replacement offers a cost-effective solution to maintaining and enhancing the performance of this iconic portable speaker.