Dynaudio Variovent is an acoustic vent designed to optimize the performance of speaker cabinets by providing controlled air movement at low frequencies while minimizing airflow at higher frequencies. This design utilizes two grilles with damping material positioned between them, allowing for a certain degree of ventilation crucial for managing bass response. By adjusting the amount of damping material and its compression, users can effectively manipulate the acoustic resistance of the vent, impacting the speaker's overall performance. The Variovent aims to reduce unwanted resonance peaks and improve sound quality but remains subject to debate regarding its efficacy compared to standard vented systems. While some experts, such as Neville Thiele, have studied its impact, the general consensus encourages experimentation to find optimal results. In terms of design, the Variovent can be replicated using conventional ports stuffed with damping material. It was particularly popular in the 1970s and 1980s among companies like ScanSpeak and Dynaudio, indicating its relevance in speaker design during that time.
