Distortion of High-Frequency Loudspeakers

Kantrowitz P. Distortion of High-Frequency Loudspeakers. J Audio Eng Soc. 1962;10(4):310-317. Available from: https://aes.org/publications/elibrary-page/?id=835

@article{Kantrowitz1962_835,
  author = {Kantrowitz, Philip},
  title = {{Distortion of High-Frequency Loudspeakers}},
  journal = {Journal of the Audio Engineering Society},
  volume = {10},
  number = {4},
  pages = {310--317},
  year = {1962},
  month = oct,
  publisher = {Audio Engineering Society},
  url = {https://aes.org/publications/elibrary-page/?id=835}
}

TY  - JOUR
TI  - Distortion of High-Frequency Loudspeakers
AU  - Kantrowitz, Philip
T2  - Journal of the Audio Engineering Society
J2  - J. Audio Eng. Soc.
VL  - 10
IS  - 4
SP  - 310
EP  - 317
PY  - 1962
DA  - 1962/10/06
UR  - https://aes.org/publications/elibrary-page/?id=835
PB  - Audio Engineering Society
LA  - en
AB  - The relative importance of linearity and distortion in high-frequency loudspeakers was investigated. Hemispherical direct radiators, conical direct radiators, a ribbon horn, dynamic horns, a single-ended and a push-pull electrostatic speaker were evaluated for frequency response, nonlinear distortion and directionality. Quadratic and cubic non-linear distortion terms were found to be present in high-frequency loudspeakers. The maximum cubic CCIF nonlinear distortion in horns was greater than that found for the direct radiator and push-pull electrostatic types. Smoothness of response, directional characteristics and extent of frequency range were generally more significant than distortion in the classification of the -listenability- of the high-frequency loudspeaker. Subjective listening tests, however, indicated that total CCIF non-linear distortion above approximately 3% is objectionable. It was found that in a complete speaker system, the capabilities of a superior high-frequency loudspeaker may be severely limited or altered due to the selection of an improper cross-over network or the use of inferior middle and low range speaker units.
ER  -