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Speed

I have just been looking for new speakers. In many ways some of the most expensive speakers I listened to have not lived up to my expectations or headphones (Shure 1540; Senn 700) with dedicated amplifiers.
I couldn't figure out what is the elusive factor. I think I now have it. In my mind, the speed at which the drivers can change speed and direction seems to be the key. I think the tiny drivers in headphones are just quicker. As the drivers get bigger, there is more momentum, therefore decreased agility or what I am calling speed.
In my price range, the quickest and most appealing at this point seem to be the Vivid 1.5. Everyone prioritizes different things. These speakers certainly won't shake the room, but they seem to have what I am looking for.
Just thought I would throw out my thoughts on this night when no one is moving with much speed after all the turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie.
Happy Holidays

crwindy

Showing 1 response by rhljazz

rhljazz
1,249 posts
 
I think a significant factor is most speakers have ported bass which introduces that column of vibrating air that is not under direct control of the driver.  Sealed box designs sound faster to me.  Their transient response in the bass is faster.  
A transmission line speaker can also offer faster speed than a ported speaker. 
Then of course there are the ESL speakers that are certainly fast but won't create any low bass unless they are huge.
Of course there are good and bad examples of all types.  However the fact remains that a sealed box bass alignment offers superior transient response to a ported enclosure.
So, check to see if all the speakers you have auditioned are ported designs.  Then see if you can find something that is sealed.  Magico comes to mind and I am sure there are a few others that might be hard to find.
Btw, I own both types and enjoy both but for different reasons.
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