TAD Technical Audio Devices TD-2002 High Frequency Driver Matched Pair 0519/0520

The TAD TD-2002 is a legendary studio-grade 1-inch throat beryllium compression driver from Technical Audio Devices (TAD / Pioneer), widely used in high-end monitors and DIY horn systems. It’s expensive partly because the beryllium diaphragm and Alnico magnet are costly to manufacture and rare today.

TD-2002 is the successor to TD-2001 with superior design and specifications. The TD-2002 offers measurable and audible upgrades—higher efficiency, stronger magnet, better power handling, and technologies like Direct Power Coupling—making it the superior choice for modern high-end builds focused on ultimate transparency and extension.

Key Features

Diaphragm: 48 mm (voice coil diameter) pure beryllium diaphragm, formed using special high-purity vacuum evaporation process for lightweight rigidity, extended resonance beyond the audible range, superior resolution, flat response, and outstanding transient characteristics.

Magnet: Powerful Alnico5 magnet circuit for high magnetic flux density (up to 1.95 T / 19,500 Gauss), delivering excellent control, linearity, and dynamics.

Direct Power Coupling technology: Direct wire-to-diaphragm connection (no intermediate leads), reducing unwanted resonances from lead wires or AC interference for cleaner, more transparent sound.

Phasing Plug: 3-slit rear type (refined design) to control phase and minimize interference for smoother high-frequency behavior.

Overall Performance: Improved clarity, wider linear response, lower distortion, and enhanced durability compared to predecessors; excels in high-SPL applications with minimal coloration.
Build: Robust professional-grade construction, compatible with 1-inch throat horns (e.g., custom, vintage, or pro designs); often praised for "supertweeter-like" extension while retaining body and detail.

Detailed Specifications

Nominal Impedance: 8 Ω
Frequency Range: 800 Hz – 20,000 Hz (some sources list up to 22,000 Hz; usable extension often noted higher in practice)
Recommended Lowest Crossover Frequency: ≥800 Hz (with ≥12 dB/octave slope for safe operation)
Rated Input Power: 10 W (continuous)
Maximum Input Power: 40 W (at 800 Hz, -12 dB/octave)
Sound Pressure Level (Sensitivity): 111 dB (1 W / 1 m) — often measured with a 60° × 30° horn
Voice Coil Diameter: 48 mm
Throat / Exit Diameter: 1 inch (25.4 mm hole size for throat connection)
Total Magnetic Flux: 7.42 × 10⁻⁴ Wb (or ~74,200 maxwell in older units)
Magnetic Flux Density: 1.95 T (19,500 Gauss)
Phasing Plug: 3-slit rear type
Mounting Dimensions: 57.2 mm (3-hole pattern) or 76.2 mm (4-hole pattern)
Dimensions: Diameter 141 mm × Depth 137 mm
Weight: 6.9 kg

Notes:
The frequency range is sometimes quoted broader (e.g., 450–27,000 Hz in some older/promotional PDFs), but TAD officially recommends ≥800 Hz crossover to protect the driver and ensure optimal performance.
Sensitivity is highly dependent on the horn used; 111 dB is a common reference figure.
This driver is current production (as of 2026) and commands a premium new