Do speaker drivers degenerate with age?

[Greg.]

This is a bit of a subjective question but I'm interested in the thoughts of all here on this topic.

Common sense would suggest that as a speaker driver gets used and becomes older, it's effeciency and performance will degenerate. If that is the case, how does one identify this? It reminds me of identifying a O/P valve becoming old and unservicable. Because the degradation in performance is gradual, many of us in our domestic listening rooms only identify the issue when we try a replacement set of valves or the old ones start to hum or develop some pyrotechnics.

IMHO, that needs to be measured alongside quality vintage drivers (such as Goodmans etc) that continue to perform well and when physical integrity is compromised such as the need for a replacement outer cone suspension support ring, a service sorts them out. But does it? Do they then continue to perform optimally or with tiredness, despite the new parts?

In particular, what about tweeters? How do you know when they are getting worn out without any obviously visual physical degradation. Again, IMHO, sound degradation may occur with the passage of time, but is the only way to identify it, owing to regular and familiar listening, when the tweeter breaks or (unlikely) you fit a replacement unit?

I'm really interested to hear what others think on this topic. I am particularly mindful that we have very satisfied members who still use drive units that are over 50 years old. I recognise it is all very subjective, but it would be good to build an understanding of the experience and views of others. Thanks.