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Journal Article

A Wide-Range Electrostatic Loudspeaker

Authors: Malme, Charles I.

Journal of the Audio Engineering Society · Volume 7 · Issue 1 · pp. 47–54 · January 1959

Abstract

A newly designed wide-range electrostatic loudspeaker incorporates: (a) push-pull operation with a light, 20-in. diameter, peripherally-supported diaphragm; (b) a high-resistivity coating on the diaphragm surfaces to give constant-charge operation without the use of an external series resistor; (c) a bias voltage of 16 kv applied through a corona-ring around the edge of the diaphragm; (d) a high-output-voltage audio amplifier to provide a driving signal of 4.5 kilovolts rms; (e) large diaphragm excursion to allow adequate low-frequency reproduction; and (f) electrical segmentation of the diaphragm to give broad directivity patterns at all frequencies. The experimental electrostatic loudspeaker is capable of a frequency response essentially flat within ±8 db from 16 cps to 16,000 cps. Total harmonic distortion at 16 cps is 6 percent. The figures quoted are for a sound pressure level of 80 db (re 2 x 10/-4 µ bar) measured at a distance of 6 ft on the loudspeaker axis in an anechoic chamber.

Details

Publication
Journal of the Audio Engineering Society
Volume
7
Issue
1
Pages
47–54
Publication date
January 6, 1959
Affiliation
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA (See document for exact affiliation information.)
Type
Journal Article