Simple Explanation

A type of speaker that fires sound in opposite directions from two sets of drivers wired out of phase, making the sound bounce off walls for a more ambient effect.

Concise Technical Definition

A speaker design with two sets of drivers firing in opposite directions, electrically out of phase, creating a figure-8 dispersion pattern with a null (quiet zone) directly on-axis. This produces a diffuse sound field suitable for surround environments.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like two people shouting in opposite directions—when you stand between them, it’s quieter, but their voices fill the room by bouncing off the walls.

Industry Usage Summary

Dipole speakers were commonly used in early home theater setups with analog Dolby Surround. Their phase-inverted driver pairs created ambient, non-localized sound, making them ideal for surround channels mounted on walls. Today, they're still used in some setups to create a spacious rear soundstage.

Engineering Shortcut

Out-of-phase, dual-driver speaker = null on-axis, diffuse field, figure-8 pattern.

Full Technical Explanation

Dipole (or dipolar) speakers contain two identical sets of drivers mounted on opposite sides of the cabinet and wired out of phase with one another. This creates cancellation along the axis between the drivers, producing a null or “dead zone” at the listening position and reflecting sound off room surfaces for a more diffuse, ambient result. The figure-8 polar pattern is ideal for surround sound, especially in reflective environments. Dipole speakers differ from bipole speakers, which use in-phase drivers for more direct, room-filling sound. Placement is crucial for achieving the intended spatial effect.