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How much does a Zobel network and its components affect the sound of speakers?

Regardless of amplification, my Merlin Audio MMI monitors have always sounded bettter using the Merlin RC Master (Zobel) Networks consisting of a Dueland capacitor and a Caddock resistor in series bringing the tweeter terminals. I've heard that some have replaced the networks using Jupiter capacitors and Vishay resistors and different wires and spades. My question is, How much do the networks and their components and associated values affect the sound? At times my speakers, while having superb resolving ability, can occasionally sound edgy, particularly noticable with voices at higher volumes.
pmboyd

Showing 3 responses by erik_squires

erik_squires
15,663 posts
 
A zobel affects the behavior of the filters. So while it is not a high or low pass filter per se, it may be needed to ensure the behavior of the surrounding components.


I find using a decent film cap is useful. Be careful going from an electrolytic to film though, as you may be altering the total effective series resistance.
erik_squires
15,663 posts
 
https://speakermakersjourney.blogspot.com/2016/12/crossover-basics-zobel_8.html
erik_squires
15,663 posts
 
I would avoid playing with those values unless you understand what it's doing.  Especially lowering the resistor value can greatly reduce the effective driver impedance, which can be bad. :) 

If you find edgy sound, a good place to start looking is the acoustics behind and beneath the speakers. The floor and stands in between are places to try padding. Pillows and blankets work. 
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