Free online speaker phase and polarity test. Detect out-of-phase speakers and reversed wiring with in-phase and out-of-phase test tones.

πŸ”Š Speaker Phase Test

Check speaker polarity & wiring β€” detect out-of-phase speakers instantly.

No microphone needed β€” all audio is generated locally in your browser.

Frequency200Hz
βœ… In Phase

Sound should feel centered and solid β€” bass is full, vocals are locked in the middle.

❌ Out of Phase

Sound feels hollow, diffuse, or thin β€” bass cancels out and vocals float oddly. This means one speaker's polarity is reversed.

If Out of Phase sounds MORE centered than In Phase, one of your speaker cables is wired backwards. Swap the + and βˆ’ terminals on ONE speaker to fix it.

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πŸ’‘ Frequently Asked Questions

What is a speaker phase test?
A speaker phase test plays the same tone through both speakers with the right channel either in-phase or inverted (out-of-phase). In-phase sounds centered and solid; out-of-phase sounds hollow and thin because the bass cancels out. Comparing the two reveals whether one speaker is wired backwards.
How do I know if my speakers are out of phase?
Play the In Phase tone, then the Out of Phase tone. If In Phase sounds solid and centered while Out of Phase sounds hollow and diffuse, your speakers are wired correctly. If Out of Phase sounds MORE centered than In Phase, one speaker's polarity is reversed.
What causes out-of-phase speakers?
Most commonly, speaker cable polarity is swapped β€” the + and βˆ’ terminals are reversed on one speaker. It can also happen with mis-wired crossovers, faulty amplifiers, or a damaged cable. Swapping the + and βˆ’ on one speaker usually fixes it.
Why does out-of-phase audio sound thin?
When two speakers play the same signal out of phase, their sound waves arrive at your ears with opposite polarity and partially cancel β€” especially in the bass region where wavelengths are long. The result is a hollow, thin sound with weak bass and poor center imaging.
Is this test safe for my speakers?
Yes, at moderate volume. The test uses a single sine tone at a frequency you control (default 200Hz). Start low and increase gradually. Avoid playing very loud low frequencies for extended periods to protect both your speakers and your hearing.