A speaker that looks like a driver or a driver that looks like a speaker?

@timlub

Thanks Tim!

Yep. Baffle step issues are frequency domain, as I understand them, and must be dealt with in the crossover or via EQ.

However, the wide baffles really seem to reduce early reflections, adding to transparency, which is usually thought of as a time domain issue and not fixable via the crossover. Of course, any change to the baffle also changes the frequency response, so this is not an absolute separation. I merely mean to point out where I think the biggest benefit of a wide baffle is.

Best,

E

I have read, but don’t remember why, that circular baffles are among the worst types of designs.

However, having a very wide baffle is often a very good and under-appreciated thing. With a good crossover and high quality components this could sound very good indeed, with especially good imaging and ability to transmit the recording venue’s acoustic signature to the listener.

Focal, and Sonus Faber are among brands which take advantage of the wide baffle idea. The former in the Utopia lines and the latter in the Stradivari.  The Arni Nudell designed speakers such as the IRS also use this wide-baffle idea to very good effect.

Best,

E

I think they are very interesting looking! But really decorator pieces. That is, you'd really have to consider the looks and aesthetics first, the sound second.

I could see them in an ad agency screening room or some such.

Best,

E