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In the Forum: Audio Discussions
In the Thread: The sound compromises of high efficiency direct radiators.

Post Subject: Predicting Speaker SoundPosted by Paul S on: 1/5/2009

At this point I think that the main advantage of efficient speakers is that they represent the best chance for a sort linearity that to my knowledge can't be gotten any other way. It seems like inefficient drivers simply do not sound the same as the power requirements vary, even if the amp can deliver the power according to test bench criteria. Amp problem or speaker problem, the problem is ubiquitous.

Yes, "HE" dynamic speakers have built-in efficiency/linearity problems, but they are none-the-less easier to work with, to get to a certain point, IMO, versus horns, which are certainly not the easiest roaute to high fidelity.

Yes, horns have some theoretical advantages, and also some practical advantages. OTOH, the main problems with compression drivers with horns are the compression drivers and the horns, not to mention getting them to work well together. It must be difficult to get the things so they don't sound like exactly what they are; at least, I suppose it is because it's difficult that I've never heard non-horny horns. And I always figured horn lovers just accepted the horn sound and tonal weirdness to get the better dynamics.

Meanwhile, it does look like I will have to add another "way" and some more dynamic drivers to my speakers to move in the direction I want to go now.

But first, the BEP...

Best regards,
Paul S

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