Flipper Fidelity

Flipper Fidelity Sound Systems for a More Immersive Audio Experience

Sound is an essential part of the gaming experience. Music, voiceovers, hit sounds, and audio feedback enhance gameplay and let the player know which objectives have been achieved, which modes have been activated, or which actions have been triggered. Modern pinball machines, in particular, feature extensive soundtracks, voice recordings, and thematically tailored effects.

Many classic Williams, Bally, Data East, and Sega pinball machines also feature elaborately produced music and sound effects. However, the factory-installed speakers cannot always fully reproduce the available audio content. Depending on the machine’s age and technical specifications, the frequency range, bass response, and speech intelligibility may be limited.

Flipper Fidelity replaces the original speakers with components tailored to the specific pinball machine. Larger cabinet speakers or woofers can reproduce lower frequencies with greater power, while two-way speakers in the backbox ensure clearer highs, more intelligible voices, and better separation of individual sound elements.

The result is not a change to the original sounds, but rather a higher-quality reproduction of the audio material already present in the pinball machine.

What are the benefits of a Flipper Fidelity sound system?

A speaker upgrade can make a noticeable difference depending on the Flipper model and its original configuration. Music-themed Flippers, movie-themed models, and machines with extensive voice output in particular benefit from more balanced audio reproduction.

Possible benefits include:

• more powerful and deeper bass reproduction,
• clearer speech and vocal reproduction,
• better intelligibility of game announcements,
• more nuanced music and sound effects,
• a wider usable frequency range,
• a more balanced sound between the backbox and cabinet,
• higher sound pressure at comparable volume settings,
• as well as a visual upgrade thanks to high-quality speakers.

How noticeable the improvement is depends on the pinball machine used, the existing sound files, the volume setting, and the originally installed speaker system.

A modern pinball machine with high-quality music can benefit particularly greatly from a larger woofer and powerful backbox speakers. But even classic machines can see a significant improvement in sound quality through clearer reproduction and better-defined bass.

Complete System Instead of Individual Replacement Speakers

A key advantage of the Flipper Fidelity systems is that they are designed as model- or platform-specific conversion kits. Instead of having to select individual speakers based on size, impedance, and power handling, the Flipper owner receives a package tailored to the specific generation of the machine.

Depending on the version, a complete system may include:

• two speakers for the backbox,
• a cabinet speaker or woofer,
• matching connection cables,
• pre-assembled connectors,
• mounting hardware,
• adapters or brackets,
• as well as model-specific accessories.

The exact configuration varies between individual systems. Therefore, you should always check the complete product description before ordering.

Using a complete system offers the advantage that the backbox speakers and cabinet woofer are matched to each other both sonically and electrically. This allows for a more balanced result than with a random combination of various individual components.

Sound Systems for Stern Pinball

Flipper Fidelity offers various speaker systems for modern and older Stern pinball machines. The decisive factor here is not only the model of the pinball machine, but above all the technical platform it uses.

The relevant Stern system generations include:

• Whitestar,
• SAM,
• SPIKE,
• SPIKE 2,
• and SPIKE 3.

The individual generations differ in terms of electronics, speaker arrangement, connections, impedance, and, in some cases, the available mounting dimensions. Therefore, a sound system designed for a SPIKE 2 pinball machine cannot automatically be used for a SAM or SPIKE 1 pinball machine.

Stern Whitestar and SAM

Depending on the model, Whitestar and SAM pinball machines use speakers in the backbox and a cabinet speaker in the lower section of the cabinet. Flipper Fidelity offers systems for these machines featuring two 4-inch backbox speakers and a larger 8- or 10-inch cabinet speaker.

The larger speaker in the cabinet is primarily responsible for reproducing low frequencies. The backbox speakers handle vocals, music, treble, and a large portion of the midrange.

Such a system is particularly well-suited for pinball machines with prominent music or voice output, as it can reproduce the existing sound with greater spatial depth and detail.

Stern SPIKE

Complete sound systems are also available for the first-generation SPIKE. These replace the factory-installed speakers with compatible backbox speakers and a more powerful cabinet woofer.

Depending on the product, you can choose between different woofer sizes and configurations. Before purchasing, you should verify that the pinball machine actually uses the first-generation SPIKE.

Stern SPIKE 2

SPIKE 2 is used in numerous modern Stern pinball machines with LCD displays. Flipper Fidelity offers various audio upgrades for these machines, including complete systems and special versions for different speaker configurations.

Special attention is required for pinball machines with factory-installed or retrofitted speaker lighting. Not every speaker system or speaker basket is compatible with every lighting kit. Therefore, the product description must be carefully reviewed.

Stern SPIKE 3

Specially tuned systems are also available for the newer SPIKE 3 generation. Depending on the model, these may include an 8-inch coaxial speaker or a larger 10-inch multi-way speaker for the cabinet.

Due to the different technical platform, systems for SPIKE 3 should only be used in explicitly compatible machines.

Flipper Fidelity for Williams and Bally

Many Williams and Bally pinball machines can also be upgraded with a Flipper Fidelity system. The machines come from different technical generations and therefore do not always have the same speaker configuration.

The product line includes, among others, systems for:

• Williams/Bally System 11B and System 11C,
• WPC Alpha Numeric,
• WPC89 or Pre-DCS,
• WPC93 or DCS,
• and WPC-95.

Especially in older pinball machines, the original speakers can show significant signs of aging after many years. Diaphragms, surrounds, connectors, and other components can wear out or no longer deliver the original sound quality.

A complete speaker upgrade can therefore not only expand the frequency range but also provide a practical solution if the old speakers distort, rattle, or produce background noise at certain frequencies.

System 11B and System 11C

For Williams and Bally machines of the System 11 generation, attention must be paid to the exact arrangement of the backbox speakers. Depending on the machine, the speakers may be mounted on top or located behind various wooden or metal panels.

Flipper Fidelity offers various system variants for this purpose. Therefore, the selection should not be based solely on the general designation “System 11.” The actual backbox design must also be taken into account.

WPC Alpha Numeric

Early WPC pinball machines with alphanumeric displays have a different backbox and speaker configuration than later DMD or WPC-95 machines. Compatible sound systems are therefore specifically tailored to this generation.

Well-known pinball machines from this era include, for example, FunHouse, The Machine: Bride of Pinbot, and Harley-Davidson. Nevertheless, compatibility should always be determined based on the product specifications and not solely on the year of manufacture.

WPC89 and Pre-DCS

WPC89 and Pre-DCS refer to machines from the early WPC generation prior to the introduction of the later DCS sound system. The audio and speaker configurations used differ from those in later WPC93 and WPC-95 pinball machines.

Dedicated complete systems are available for these machines, tailored to the existing sound board and speaker layout.

WPC93 and DCS

Pinball machines with the DCS sound system come equipped from the factory with digital audio playback that was powerful for its time. A high-quality speaker system can nevertheless reproduce the existing music tracks, voices, and effects more clearly and with greater impact.

Since not every WPC pinball machine uses the same sound generation, it must be clearly determined before ordering whether the machine is a Pre-DCS, DCS, or WPC-95 model.

WPC-95

WPC-95 was the last major Williams/Bally system generation of classic production. Many well-known pinball machines of this generation feature extensive music, voice samples, and sound effects.

Flipper Fidelity offers both classic complete systems and multi-way configurations for these machines. Depending on the set, two-way backbox speakers and a larger cabinet woofer are used.

Sound Systems for Data East and Sega

Flipper Fidelity also offers audio upgrades for select Data East and Sega pinball machines. Here, too, there are different variants and speaker configurations.

For Data East pinball machines, early and later models may differ in terms of sound board, backbox, speaker size, and wiring. Accordingly, the respective system variants must be taken into account.

For Sega machines, systems are available for classic cabinet and showcase models, among others. Showcase pinball machines have a unique cabinet and speaker configuration, which is why specially tailored solutions are required.

Before purchasing a Data-East or Sega system, you should therefore check the following points:

• full pinball machine name,
• manufacturer,
• technical generation,
• existing speaker sizes,
• speaker positions,
• connectors and wiring,
• as well as possible cabinet variants.

8-inch or 10-inch woofers—which version makes sense?

Depending on the system, different sizes of cabinet speakers are available. 8-inch and 10-inch models are particularly common.

However, a larger speaker is not automatically the better choice in every situation. The decisive factors are installation space, system tuning, speaker design, and personal sound preferences.

8-Inch Woofer

An 8-inch woofer delivers powerful bass reproduction and requires comparatively little installation space. It’s suitable for many pinball machine owners who want a noticeable improvement in sound quality without making the bass overly prominent.

Possible advantages include:

• a more compact design,
• controlled bass reproduction,
• good integration into many cabinets,
• and a balanced ratio between bass, vocals, and effects.

10-inch speaker

Depending on its design, a 10-inch speaker can move more air and reproduce lower frequencies with greater power. This can create a very full sound, especially in music-intensive pinball machines.

Possible advantages include:

• more noticeable low bass,
• more physically palpable bass energy,
• greater acoustic presence,
• and particularly powerful reproduction of music and effects.

Before ordering, you must ensure that the speaker is intended for the specific pinball machine generation and can be installed without interfering with other components.

Two-Way and Three-Way Speakers

A single-driver speaker must reproduce as wide a frequency range as possible on its own. Multi-way speakers, on the other hand, distribute the various frequency ranges across several specially designed drivers.

Two-Way Speakers

In a two-way system, high, midrange, and low frequencies are reproduced by different speaker components. In the backbox, this can result in clearer highs and more intelligible vocals.

Three-Way Systems

In three-way systems, the frequency range is divided even further. This allows for a more nuanced reproduction of high, mid, and low frequencies.

A three-way system isn’t strictly necessary for every pinball machine or installation scenario. However, it can offer particular advantages for extensive soundtracks, music-based pinball machines, and high-quality digital audio files.

How do I find the right pinball fidelity system?

The selection must be based on the pinball machine’s technical platform. The manufacturer’s name alone is not sufficient.

Take a systematic approach when making your selection:

1. Determine the manufacturer

Check whether the pinball machine is made by Stern, Williams, Bally, Data East, or Sega.

2. Identify the system generation

For Stern, for example, you must distinguish between Whitestar, SAM, SPIKE, SPIKE 2, and SPIKE 3. For Williams and Bally, relevant systems include System 11, WPC Alpha Numeric, WPC89, WPC93/DCS, and WPC-95.

3. Check the pinball model

Compare the full model name with the information in the product description. Some systems are designed to be universal for a platform, while others require specific variants or additional components.

4. Check the speaker configuration

Inspect the existing speakers in the backbox and cabinet. With older pinball machines, previous owners may have already made modifications.

5. Consider connectors and impedance

The electrical impedance of the speakers must match the sound electronics and the intended system. A speaker of the correct size is not automatically electrically compatible.

6. Consider optional features

Speaker lighting, special backbox panels, alternative cabinets, or other modifications can affect installation.

Why is speaker impedance important?

Impedance is measured in ohms and, simply put, describes the electrical resistance that the speaker presents to the amplifier. Flipper sound boards are designed for specific speaker configurations.

Incorrect impedance can lead to problems:

• insufficient volume,
• distorted playback,
• unbalanced sound,
• increased strain on the amplifier electronics,
• or, in the worst case, damage.

Therefore, you should not randomly install speakers from general hi-fi or automotive sources. Flipper Fidelity matches speakers, wiring, and connectors to the respective Flipper systems.

If you’re using individual speakers instead of a complete set, you must pay particularly close attention to impedance, connection type, mounting depth, and system compatibility.

Installation of a Flipper Fidelity Sound System

Many Flipper Fidelity systems are designed as largely plug-and-play solutions. According to the manufacturer, numerous systems can be installed in about 30 minutes without making permanent modifications to the pinball machine. However, the actual installation time depends on the specific unit, the installer’s experience, and accessibility.

Before beginning work, the Flipper must be completely turned off and disconnected from the power supply.

A typical installation involves the following steps:

1. Remove the backglass or Translite.
2. Gain access to the backbox.
3. Document the existing speakers and connectors.
4. Remove the original backbox speakers.
5. Detach the cabinet speakers or woofers.
6. Install the new speakers using the provided mounting hardware.
7. Connect the cables and adapters according to the instructions.
8. Check that the cable routing is kept clear of mechanical parts and sharp edges.
9. Reinstall all removed covers.
10. Test the sound at a low volume initially.

Individual steps may vary depending on the system. Therefore, the included or linked installation instructions are authoritative.

No Permanent Modifications to the Pinball Machine

Many pinball machine owners want to upgrade their machines without drilling holes, cutting cables, or permanently altering the original electrical system. Flipper Fidelity designs many of its systems to utilize existing mounting points and plug connections.

This offers several advantages:

• reversing the modification later remains possible,
• original parts can be preserved,
• the existing wiring is not unnecessarily altered,
• and it is easier to maintain the pinball machine’s collector condition.

The removed original speakers, screws, cables, and brackets should be labeled and stored safely.

Volume Control and Extension Cables

On some Williams, Bally, and Stern systems, the volume control may be located in a different place after the conversion or may be harder to reach. Special extension or rerouting cables are available for this purpose.

Such a cable makes it possible, for example, to reroute the volume control closer to the cash door or to a more accessible location.

Care should be taken to ensure that:

• the cable is not routed along moving parts,
• no sharp edges damage the insulation,
• the connectors are securely fastened,
• and the operation of the pinball machine is not impaired.

Speaker Lighting and Speaker Lights

Illuminated speakers are a popular visual upgrade, especially for modern Stern pinball machines. Lighting systems behind the backbox speakers can display colors and animations that match the game.

However, not every combination of speaker, speaker basket, and lighting system is compatible. A larger magnet, a different basket, or a different mounting depth may interfere with the lighting kit.

Before purchasing, you should therefore check:

• whether Speaker Lights are already installed,
• which manufacturer produced the lighting system,
• what speaker size is supported,
• how much installation depth is available,
• and whether the desired Flipper Fidelity system is explicitly approved for this purpose.

Do any adjustments need to be made after installation?

After installation, the volume should initially be set to a low level. It can then be slowly increased while checking the sound quality.

Depending on the pinball machine, additional audio settings may be available in the service menu. These may include:

• Master volume,
• Minimum volume,
• Volume limit,
• Balance,
• Equalizer settings,
• Bass and treble adjustment,
• or track-specific audio options.

Extreme settings do not automatically result in better sound. Bass that is boosted too much can mask other frequencies or cause unwanted vibrations.

A balanced setting ensures that voices, music, and sound effects remain clearly audible even at moderate volume levels.

Vibrations and Background Noise After Speaker Upgrade

A more powerful woofer generates more energy inside the cabinet. As a result, previously unnoticeable loose compon

Frequently Asked Questions about Flipper Fidelity Sound Systems