How to Build a Siren Step-Down Amplifier?/speaker

[WhelenNDealin]

I'm wondering how to build an adjustable step-down speaker so that I can test and run sirens indoors without the missus wanting to kill me. I'm not sure if step-down is the right term for it, but how would I go about building a speaker setup that reduces the loudness of a siren? I'm also curious as to how to install a volume control on it. Any suggestions would me much appreciated!

 

[MtnMan]

https://elightbars.org/forums/threads/reducing-speaker-volume-for-siren-testing.628/

 

[classifieds869294]

It’s not a volume control, but I bought these resistors off of amazon and running one in line with one of the speaker wires does the trick for me in terms of volume reduction. The thread above gets into more details for adjustable volume and the science behind it all.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010XA4B3I/?tag=elightbars-20

 

[Safetyman]

I use a 500 ohm 5 watt wirewound resistor in line on one of the wires to the speaker. I have used it to check older Federal Signal PA's, Heathkit and a Unitrol Touchmaster Delta siren with no problems. The thread two posts up should give you what you need to know.