Subwoofer size
December 9, 2002
Is there some rule of thumb I can use on subwoofer size?
Like, should a 10" woofer be adequate for a 12' x 12' room, while if I have a 15' x
15' room, should plan on a 12" driver? Thanks.
Roger Skoff
If it were only that simple! There are numerous factors
that come into play when looking at a subwoofer's specified performance. Not only is the
size of the driver a factor in each design, but also the excursion capabilities of that
driver, enclosure size and type (sealed or ported), amplifier power, and equalization,
just to name a few. For example, a "long-throw" 10" subwoofer (more
excursion capability, which is the amount of travel the driver can accommodate in each
direction) could easily have more bass output than a "shallow-throw" 12"
unit. This goes directly against the old mindset that a bigger driver in a bigger box will
always outperform a smaller driver in a smaller box. So while I would like to be able to
give you a rule of thumb to go by, it's just not applicable today with modern subwoofers.
You have to look at the specs, then carry some bass-heavy CDs and DVDs to your local
dealer and put the candidates to the test. After rattling the showroom for an hour or so
you'll have a pretty good idea what size subwoofer you actually need.
Vasant?
December 6, 2002
I enjoyed and appreciated your review of the Magnepan MMGs
-- which I'm planning on purchasing for a small room (10 1/2' x 16'), for a music-first
system.
My question, however, actually pertains to the Vasant
GA-120S Final Edition 0.1 integrated amp with which you drove the Maggies for part of your
review. From the distributor's website, the amplifier appears impressive and well built --
but I'm unable to find any reviews of the unit, and I'd like to read your impressions. I
had been anticipating buying an Onix A-120 (another apparently little-known gem), whose
120Wpc and reputed bass capabilities I thought would drive the MMGs admirably, but I'm
also increasingly impressed with the quality -- and value -- of recent hi-fi offerings
from Thailand. Your thoughts?
Milan Njegomir
We do have a review of the Vasant integrated coming.
We're waiting on a few final details from the manufacturer regarding some technical
questions and product availability. Hang tight -- you should hopefully see a review soon.
"Reference" or "monitor" speakers
December 3, 2002
I often see speakers classified as reference or monitor. It
appears that the reference speakers are more expensive and I'm sure offer higher
performance. Is there more to this? Thanks.
Rick
In recent years these labels have morphed into marketing
terms more so than anything else. But yes, they do have meaning A "monitor"
speaker is one designed for studio or location monitoring of recording sessions. They are
designed to be accurate and many times portable (for easy transport or placement on top of
a console). The sound should tell the listener as much as possible about the recorded
event. "Reference" typically denotes a "standard" which the company
shoots for. Thus it is a term usually applied to top-of-the-line models within a brand's
lineup, hence the higher prices you refer to. Again though, many companies use these terms
rather flippantly these days so you should take them rather lightly.
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