Posted by Chris Brunhaver [ 66.224.71.186 ] on July 20, 2006 at 11:03:15:
In Reply to: Re: HT InWall array posted by justinc on July 19, 2006 at 12:14:26:
Well, one of the benefits of the line array design is that its controlled directivity allows for more direct field (versus reverberant field) response at the listening position. While this is good for imaging and localization of sounds, it is not what you want for a side and rear channels in a theater (according to THX and others).
For that, a dipole speaker with the null aimed at the listening position (so as to get essentially no direct response from the speaker) is recommended. That way, you have very diffuse and enveloping surround channels, which is especially good when you have to sit at a closer than optimal distance to the surrounds.
However, there can be an issue with LF power response (if you are running speakers dipole throughout their whole range) so sometimes a mix of dipole sides and rear center (if used) can be augmented by monopole rears in the back corners. This particular suggestion came out of Earl Geddes "Premium Home Theater" book.
Also, the increased power handling of a line array simply isn't needed for the side and rear channels and you can go with something more modest, output wise.
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