Simple Explanation

A design where two elements—like speaker drivers or cable conductors—share the same central axis.

Concise Technical Definition

Two or more transducers (e.g., a tweeter and woofer) or conductors arranged concentrically along a single axis. In speakers, this allows sound to originate from a single point source; in cables, it refers to a center conductor surrounded by a grounded shield.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like stacking a small cup inside a larger one—they share the same center. For speakers, this means both sound sources are coming from the same place; for cables, the signal wire runs down the middle, surrounded by a protective tube.

Industry Usage Summary

In audio, “coaxial” often refers to speakers with a tweeter embedded in a woofer (common in live sound and studio monitors). It also refers to coaxial cables used in digital audio and RF applications. Coaxial speaker designs reduce phase issues and improve imaging by aligning sound sources.

Engineering Shortcut

Coaxial = shared axis: speaker (tweeter inside woofer), cable (core + shield).

Full Technical Explanation

In loudspeaker design, coaxial (or coincident) mounting places two drivers—typically a tweeter and woofer—on the same axis, providing a more consistent off-axis response and improved phase coherence, which enhances stereo imaging. In electronics, coaxial cables consist of a central “hot” conductor, an insulating layer, a metallic shield for grounding, and an outer insulating jacket. The geometry maintains consistent impedance and shielding, critical for audio, RF, and digital signal transmission.