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

Post Subject: IndeedPosted by Markus on: 1/5/2009

I have recently been thinking about efficiency. Apart from enabling you to use low power amps, is there really any reason why high efficiency is better than low or medium efficiency, all else being equal (and I know perfectly well it never is, but let's assume it is for this thought experiment)?

It occurred to me that historically, the advantage of high efficiency drivers was that they tended to be optimized for low mechanical loss. Low mechanical loss tends to make the sound cleaner, more detailed and more "free" than from drivers with high mechanical loss, a chassis designer told me. It is now possible to buy normal efficiency drivers with low mechanical loss. So, is there a reason to put up with the demands of hi-eff drivers anymore?

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