What is the role of speakers in audio systems?

The role of speakers in audio systems is fundamentally centered around converting electrical energy into sound waves. When an audio signal, which is essentially an electrical signal, is sent to a speaker, the speaker's components—typically a magnet, cone, and voice coil—work together to produce sound. The electrical current passing through the voice coil creates a magnetic field that interacts with the magnet, causing the cone to vibrate. These vibrations generate sound waves that we can hear. This function is central to sound reproduction in audio equipment, emphasizing the speaker's importance in delivering the auditory experience to the audience. Other options involve functions that speakers do not perform, such as amplifying signals, capturing sound, or distributing audio, which are distinct roles performed by other components in an audio system.