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Harbeth blog

Alan Shaw, the designer and owner of Harbeth, the high end speaker manufacturer, has started a new blog on the Harbeth User Group: http://www.harbeth.co.uk/usergroup/forum/designer-s-blog/75232-ahoy-from-the-engine-room
He discusses audio and particularly speaker design, but also the science of hearing and the methodology for testing and listening to gear. Anyone who is interested in the scientific approach to audio engineering (and sensible purchasing decisions) will enjoy his writings. Subjectivists may be annoyed, and so will be the snake oil sellers.
willemj

Showing 3 responses by helomech

helomech
1,494 posts
 
@shadorne 

I suppose it really depends on what one considers "intrinsically damped." One could argue that only plastics fall into that category, but a case can be made for some alloys and composites as well.

The issue I have with Harbeth is they dominate the BBC market on somewhat false pretenses, as though they're the only ones who know how to make a stiff plastic driver or lossy cabinet. Don't get me wrong. I think they're good speakers and I'd recommend an audition to anyone shopping for a BBC inspired monitor. However,  the others I listed are equally competitive and worthy of a listen. Unfortunately for them, they lack the marketing skills of AS.
helomech
1,494 posts
 
@shadorne

Harbeth and ATC are not the only manufacturers using "intrinsiaclly" damped cones. Far from it. It's called plastic.

Stirling Broadcast, Spendor, Graham, and Falcon are just a few that used damped cones in addition to lossy, thin-walled cabinets. As for other manufacturers using damped drivers, that’s a very long list.
helomech
1,494 posts
 
@willemj

No, the others don’t just use generic polypropylene.
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