Now why only 12-inch. Well, firstly, it is generally accepted that the so-called "serious bass" begins with this size (although not without exceptions). Secondly, the Audiobahn subwoofer line has grown so much in breadth and depth that an analysis of all series and all standard sizes would take a lot of time and magazine space. In addition, they are trends for that and trends, in order to form an opinion about the general on the example of specific models. For the most specific and, if you like, iconic examples, we chose the AWT12 and AW1208X models from the same series that won awards in Las Vegas, but in a larger caliber.

In principle, one can not pull with a general opinion, since it develops even with the most superficial study of the design and objective parameters of "audiobans". The picture looks like this: Audiobahn, among many, has set a course for extreme power characteristics and the same extreme sound pressure values, extracted from the very depths of the frequency spectrum, not paying much attention to the range that is outside the "responsibility zone" of the subwoofer. Hence the dominant design of sub-bass heads today, built on heavy-duty and super-rigid piston cones, oversized voice coils, huge magnets and incredibly wide hard suspensions. Is it inspired by the ubiquity of digital technologies in amplifying technology, the increase in the power supplied from it, or is it simply a reflection of the general desire for some kind of absolute, which is usually characteristic of engineering? Or perhaps dictated by the needs of the mobile technology market and the growing number of mobile cinemas in which the subwoofer plays a special role? Probably, both that, and another, and the third.

Most likely, there is a fourth and fifth, but why should we delve into the reasons? It is better to deal with specific products, they are worth it. They cost not only "that", but quite impressive amounts in dollar terms. We (not on purpose, honestly) chose those Audiobahn speakers that perform in the expensive category "for $ 400" in their homeland. And if so, then we will make higher demands on them, they were the first to start.

If subwoofers were evaluated by only one parameter - the intensity of the shine of the cases - then here, no words, Audiobahn would not let anyone go ahead. The mercenary Americans themselves have a stable expression "to look like 100 dollars." In this case, it does not work, since the order of the numbers is clearly not the same and the impression made by the appearance of the "audiobans" does not reflect. Almost all body parts are chrome-plated and polished to impossibility. And this is also a kind of trend: no matter what design the bass speaker is to play in, it must reach the consumer in all its glory. By the way, the elite Audiobahn heads come to the owner in a rather stylish wooden box. Compared to everything else - a trifle, but not without pleasantness.

The AWT12 belongs to the same series as its smaller brother AWT10, which made it into the innovators list (we published it, you can check it out). The series is called the Linear Compression Subwoofer and combines extremely long-throw woofers with huge headroom and equally huge SPL values. "Long-stroke" is putting it mildly. The working stroke of the diffuser of the AWT12 is 20 millimeters in one direction! At the same time, the permissible power is 2 kilowatts! Where does what come from? And look at the suspension. He AWT12 occupies almost half of the usable area of ​​the diffuser. In numerical terms, the width of the corrugation is 2 inches. Such a suspension, by definition, must pump huge masses of air and maintain the linearity of the diffuser, especially since it is made of polyurethane foam - a material that is considered more preferable than soft rubber in terms of ensuring the linearity of the stroke. The powerful double centering washer of a very large diameter also contributes.

The whole design of the speaker is the height of solidity and reliability. The body is cast from aluminum alloy and plated with chrome. Moreover, the body is prefabricated: the connecting links between the magnetic system and the frame are six spokes machined on a milling machine, which are fastened with 12 bolts to the rim of the diffuser holder and to the lower magnetic circuit. Apparently, it was impossible otherwise, no glue could withstand seven kilograms of the weight of a double magnet. Well, it’s beautiful, of course, what is there.

But the main surprise, or, in our opinion, a shock, is the flat, without a dust cap, heavy AWT12 cone, machined from an aluminum-titanium alloy. That is, everything - the method of manufacture, materials and geometry - is aimed at the maximum possible increase in the rigidity of the diaphragm and, accordingly, the reduction of non-linear distortions when working under extreme loads. Two kilowatts of power cannot be called otherwise, and the AWT12 can withstand them, if there were an amplifier of adequate abilities. Now this is not a problem in principle, besides, the dual voice coil is designed to operate the amplifier in 2 or 0,5 ohm mode, depending on the way the speaker is connected, that is, it has high power. The reel itself is 4 inches in diameter, which is twice the size of the standard caliber, which is to be expected, given the direct and obvious threat of overheating. Californians also approach this problem thoroughly, equipping the speaker to the smallest detail with a well-thought-out heat dissipation system with air filters. In any case, the design shows that the voice coil will not experience a lack of fresh air. A wide ventilation hole is provided in the rear magnetic circuit, and the coil is closed on the side with aluminum grids, which also do not interfere with the process of coolness.

The AW1208X belongs to the PRO PRESSURE series and is somewhat different in design from the AWT12. But again, the layout of the speaker clearly indicates its propensity for gigantic power, high SPL values ​​​​and feats in terms of cone travel. The basket, like the AWT12, is molded, which should ensure high speaker stability. The same thick (by the way, that's what is called - PHAT) 2-inch corrugation supports a flat, without dust cap, composite cone (fiberglass / cellulose). Accordingly, the Xmax of the AW1208X is similarly large - 20 millimeters in one direction. True, the AW1208X loses in power, which is limited to 1500 watts. But, as can be seen from the table, it is almost 2 decibels superior to AWT12 in sensitivity, that is, in theory, the signal will begin to be distorted at a higher volume.

High sensitivity is the merit of the AW1008X magnetic system. It is even heavier than the AWT12 and much smarter. In fact, these are 8 magnets, each of which is composed of 4 ferrite beads. This whole structure weighs 8 kilograms and is located in a circle between the upper and lower magnetic cores, which are fastened together by 4 bolts. Practice shows that in this way it is possible to achieve a more uniform magnetic field and more linear oscillations of the diffuser. In addition, there is free space between the prefabricated magnets, which is by no means harmful to heat dissipation. The voice coil cooling system (again double, with an enlarged 3-inch diameter, the amplifier can be operated in 2 and 0,5 ohm modes) is again at its best. Traditionally, in the middle of the end of the speaker is a vent. On the sides, the coil is also open to all winds, and instead of the AWT12 metal meshes, there are 18 cooling fins - a different amplifier radiator has even smaller ones.

Now you can also look at the Thiel-Small parameters. As can be seen from the table, both speakers are very rigid, the equivalent volume (Vas) of the AWT12 and AW1208X is 18 and 27 liters, respectively. At the same time, due to the fact that the mobile system of "audiobans" is very, very heavy, the resonant frequency (Fs) remains quite low - 29,7 and 27,2 Hz. This means that for normal working conditions they require very compact, somewhere up to 20 liters closed boxes. In addition, the low values ​​of the total quality factor (Qts) of both heads clearly indicate their tendency to work in a phase inverter. In both cases, stunning SPL values ​​are guaranteed. In the spirit of modern trends.

Author: A. Krasner, 12 Volt; Publication: 12voltsmagazine.com

See other articles Section Speakers.

Read and write useful comments on this article.

<< Back

Latest news of science and technology, new electronics:

Artificial leather for touch emulation 15.04.2024

In a modern technology world where distance is becoming increasingly commonplace, maintaining connection and a sense of closeness is important. Recent developments in artificial skin by German scientists from Saarland University represent a new era in virtual interactions. German researchers from Saarland University have developed ultra-thin films that can transmit the sensation of touch over a distance. This cutting-edge technology provides new opportunities for virtual communication, especially for those who find themselves far from their loved ones. The ultra-thin films developed by the researchers, just 50 micrometers thick, can be integrated into textiles and worn like a second skin. These films act as sensors that recognize tactile signals from mom or dad, and as actuators that transmit these movements to the baby. Parents' touch to the fabric activates sensors that react to pressure and deform the ultra-thin film. This ... >>

Petgugu Global cat litter 15.04.2024

Taking care of pets can often be a challenge, especially when it comes to keeping your home clean. A new interesting solution from the Petgugu Global startup has been presented, which will make life easier for cat owners and help them keep their home perfectly clean and tidy. Startup Petgugu Global has unveiled a unique cat toilet that can automatically flush feces, keeping your home clean and fresh. This innovative device is equipped with various smart sensors that monitor your pet's toilet activity and activate to automatically clean after use. The device connects to the sewer system and ensures efficient waste removal without the need for intervention from the owner. Additionally, the toilet has a large flushable storage capacity, making it ideal for multi-cat households. The Petgugu cat litter bowl is designed for use with water-soluble litters and offers a range of additional ... >>

The attractiveness of caring men 14.04.2024

The stereotype that women prefer "bad boys" has long been widespread. However, recent research conducted by British scientists from Monash University offers a new perspective on this issue. They looked at how women responded to men's emotional responsibility and willingness to help others. The study's findings could change our understanding of what makes men attractive to women. A study conducted by scientists from Monash University leads to new findings about men's attractiveness to women. In the experiment, women were shown photographs of men with brief stories about their behavior in various situations, including their reaction to an encounter with a homeless person. Some of the men ignored the homeless man, while others helped him, such as buying him food. A study found that men who showed empathy and kindness were more attractive to women compared to men who showed empathy and kindness. ... >>

Random news from the Archive Tomograph for seed sorting 13.06.2004 German scientists have taught an X-ray tomograph to automatically sort seeds. As you know, what you sow is what you reap, but germination tests are now the only way to check the quality of seeds. "Testing takes a lot of time, especially in a large seed company like ours, which packs four thousand tons of sugar beet seeds per year," says Dr. decided to create an installation that will allow you to control up to a dozen parameters of each seed." An X-ray microtomograph scans individual seeds, while a computer builds sections of each seed, creates a three-dimensional image, recognizes various tissues from it and measures their volume. According to the results of the analysis, he immediately sorts the seeds, and very quickly, hundreds of pieces in a couple of minutes. In addition to working out the recognition algorithm, the scientists solved another important problem - they established a connection between the morphology of the seed and the subsequent parameters of plant development: otherwise it would be impossible to sort out.

Other interesting news:

▪ MSP430FG6626 - microcontroller for portable measuring devices

▪ Creative Live! Cam Optia

▪ Artificial biological tissue

▪ Smart tungsten coating will replace paper

▪ Titanic hyperion

News feed of science and technology, new electronics

Interesting materials of the Free Technical Library:

▪ section of the site Calls and audio simulators. Article selection

▪ article Let's join hands, friends, so as not to disappear one by one. Popular expression

▪ article Which football club is named after two chemicals, one of which is poison? Detailed answer

▪ Freucinetius article. Legends, cultivation, methods of application

▪ article Repair and maintenance of CD-ROM drives. Encyclopedia of radio electronics and electrical engineering

▪ article Refinement of the portable radio charger. Encyclopedia of radio electronics and electrical engineering

Leave your comment on this article:

All languages ​​of this page

Arabic	Hebrew	Polish
Bengali	Hindi	Portuguese
Chinese	Italian	Spanish
English	Japanese	Turkish
French	Korean	Ukrainian
German	Malay	Vietnamese

Home page | Library | Articles | Website map | Site Reviews

www.diagram.com.ua
2000-2024