The Celestion-Truvox-0820 looks like a direct upgrade to the HT-8 drivers (barring crossover changes that may be needed) and they're coming in at the same price (for now) as the old Celestion TF0818-8. 2-3db more sensitivity, 2db more power handling, 5mm xmax vs 3.25mm xmax. All pure upgrades, I checked the sensitivity based on the graph, not the number listed.
I just pulled the trigger on some HT-8's. Would there be any benefit to applying sound deadener to the inside panels? Something like this: I saw some pics of someone else doing it but was wondering if there would be any advantages to it in the HT-8. I've used it extensively in my cars and it helped tremendously to dampen vibrations and make my stock Bose system sound better.
No harm in applying that material to the cabinet walls of the HT-8, but the difference in panel resonance won't be nearly as noticeable compared to sheet metal in a vehicle.
What do you think about also sticking the deadening mat on the outside of the plastic port? Wrapping a small piece around the outside of the tube. And/or applying small pieces to the back of the waveguide? I don't want to negatively affect the speaker, just possibly improve its resonances. I already have the deadener and want to use it as my cars are done with it.
If you already have leftovers laying around then I would certainly use it. There is no harm to be had applying it to any of those surfaces and I am sure it will help a little.
I am in the process of attaching the crossovers to the box. Is this the correct way to use the stand offs? It doesn't seem like there is a lot of thread to hold it in.
Yes when the screw is driven in it will spread the tabs on the standoff and let more threads through.
Are there any negative affects to placing the HT-8 upside down, with the waveguide on the bottom? This would be for the LR to get the compression drivers to be more in line with the center, which would be waveguide up. Or is it best to have them all oriented the same way and just angle them up/down?