The AT-40 employs a multi-element, air-core inductor and Mylar capacitor network for the mid and high frequencies.
This speaker is highly efficient (approx. 98 dB sensitivity ). This means it requires very little amplifier power to produce loud volumes. While many high-end audiophile speakers require massive amps to drive them, the AT-40s can rock the house with even a modest receiver, making them easy to drive. cerwin vega at40 specs
Here are the factory specs as published in the original Cerwin Vega product literature (circa 1988-1991). Note: Some values vary slightly between the early and late production runs. The AT-40 employs a multi-element, air-core inductor and
Sound Character and Performance In practice, the AT-40 presents a forward, energetic sound signature. Bass notes are prominent and impactful, making the speaker well-suited to genres that benefit from strong low end—rock, electronic, hip-hop—and to listeners who prefer a lively, room-filling sound. Midrange presence is generally robust, which helps vocals and guitars cut through mixes or playback. High frequencies are handled with adequate detail but are often less emphasized than the low end; this can be perceived as warm and pleasant by many listeners but may lack the ultra-precise top-end extension favored by some studio engineers. This means it requires very little amplifier power
While not considered "audiophile" in the sense of clinical, flat accuracy, the AT-40 excels at high-volume playback and deep bass response. Owners often describe them as "party speakers" because their high sensitivity allows them to be driven easily by even modest amplifiers. These Speakers Absolutely Changed My Life